In Alaska, insulation and air-sealing are the difference between a comfortable, efficient building and one that’s cold and expensive to heat. Here are the best insulation and weather-barrier products for cold climates and the brands Impac Co supplies and ships.
The best insulation for cold-climate Alaska builds combines: (1) rigid foam (continuous exterior insulation) to stop thermal bridging; (2) fiberglass batts for cost-effective cavity R-value; and (3) a weather-resistant air barrier to control moisture and air leakage. Pairing continuous rigid foam with cavity insulation and a good air barrier gives the best cold-climate performance.
What matters in a cold-climate envelope
- High R-value — more resistance to heat loss per inch and per cavity.
- Continuous insulation — reduces thermal bridging through framing.
- Moisture & air control — a proper barrier prevents condensation and drafts.
- Constructability — products that ship and install well in cold conditions.
1. Rigid foam (continuous exterior insulation)
Best for: Stopping thermal bridging and boosting whole-wall R-value.
Rigid foam board adds continuous insulation outside the framing, which dramatically reduces heat loss through studs — a key strategy for cold-climate walls and roofs.
Brands Impac Co carries: Insulfoam (EPS rigid foam)
Consider: Detail seams and fasteners correctly to maintain the air/thermal barrier.
2. Fiberglass batt insulation
Best for: Cost-effective cavity insulation.
Fiberglass batts are an economical, widely used way to fill wall, floor, and ceiling cavities with R-value, and pair well with continuous rigid foam in a high-performance assembly.
Brands Impac Co carries: Owens Corning, CertainTeed, Knauf
Consider: Install to full thickness without gaps or compression for rated performance.
3. Weather-resistant & air barriers
Best for: Moisture and air-leakage control.
A high-quality water-resistive and air barrier keeps liquid water out while managing air movement and vapor — essential to prevent condensation and heat loss in cold climates.
Brands Impac Co carries: VaproShield, DuPont Tyvek, Typar
Consider: Choose a barrier appropriate to the wall’s vapor strategy for the climate zone.
| Product | Role | Strength | Relative cost |
|---|---|---|---|
| Rigid foam (EPS) | Continuous insulation | Stops thermal bridging | $$ |
| Fiberglass batt | Cavity insulation | Best value R-value | $ |
| Air/weather barrier | Moisture & air control | Prevents condensation | $ |
Frequently asked questions
What insulation has the best R-value for Alaska?
For whole-wall performance, combining continuous rigid foam (to stop thermal bridging) with fiberglass batts in the cavity gives excellent results. Closed-cell options also offer high R-value per inch.
Why is an air barrier important in cold climates?
It prevents air leakage and condensation, which protects R-value and the structure from moisture damage — critical in Alaska’s cold, humid-interior conditions.
Does Impac Co ship insulation to Alaska?
Yes — insulation and barrier products are supplied and shipped to Alaska, consolidated and protected for transit.