Why CI?

Continuous insulation, often called CI, is a layer of insulation that wraps a home without gaps from framing, studs, or other building materials that normally let heat leak through. It can go on the outside of a house (over the sheathing) or the inside, and building codes have required some form of it in most climate zones since 2012. The idea is simple: wood and metal framing conduct heat much faster than insulated cavities, so wrapping the whole structure in a continuous layer cuts down on cold spots, drafts, and wasted energy.

Putting the insulation on the exterior is generally considered the better approach, since it keeps the wall sheathing warmer and drier, lowering the risk of condensation, mold, or rot over time. It also tends to make rooms feel more comfortable, because walls and windows that are closer to room temperature radiate less chill. But exterior insulation isn't always practical, especially on older homes with historic siding, tight property lines, or tricky rooflines. In those cases, adding insulation on the inside can still meaningfully cut heat loss and improve comfort, though it requires more care around moisture control and trim details, and doesn't dry out the wall assembly the same way.

For homeowners, the main takeaway is that this isn't just a new product or gadget — it's a design approach for how insulation is installed, whether during new construction, a re-siding job, or a re-roofing project. If you're considering any exterior or roof renovation, the choice of continuous insulation and where it goes in the wall or roof can affect comfort, energy bills, and how well your walls hold up over the decades.