The higher the R value indicates what about materials?

The R-value is a measure of thermal resistance, which quantifies how well a material insulates against heat flow. In the context of construction and energy efficiency, a higher R-value means that the material provides better insulation, thereby reducing heat transfer between the interior and exterior of a building. This is crucial for maintaining comfortable indoor temperatures and reducing energy costs associated with heating and cooling.

While high-density materials can have a higher R-value, density alone does not guarantee greater thermal resistance. Similarly, although some insulating materials may provide sound insulation, the R-value primarily assesses thermal properties rather than acoustics. Weight is not a direct indicator of thermal resistance; instead, it is the material’s composition, thickness, and structure that influence its R-value. Therefore, the choice indicating greater thermal resistance is the most accurate interpretation of the R-value.