How to Convert R-Values to K-Values

How to Convert R-Values to K-Values
Written By
David Robinson
David Robinson
Published: Jul 12, 2011
Updated: Nov 20, 2021
1 minute read
  1. Measure or otherwise ascertain the thickness, in inches, of the material for which you have an R-value. For example, a roll of insulation may have the thickness of 3.5 inches, specified on the packaging. Record this value.

  2. Divide the thickness by the R-value. The result is the K-value. For example: Blown fiberglass has a typical R value of 2.20 per inch thickness. The K-value of a 4-inch thick layer is 1.82 because 4 / 2.2 = 1.8181.

  3. Reverse your calculations to check for errors. Multiply the K-value by the R-value. The result should be the thickness of the material. If your answer differs from the thickness value, there was an error in your calculations. Repeat the math until the result is correct.

Tips

The K-value of an insulating material will be clearly marked on the packaging or technical data sheet accompanying the product.

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David Robinson

David Robinson has written professionally since 2000. He is a Fellow of the Royal Geographical Society and the Royal Meteorological Society. He has written for the "Telegraph" and "Guardian" newspapers in the U.K., government publications,…

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