If you’re looking to move toward a more earth-friendly lifestyle, you have probably heard that insulating your residence can conserve energy while you’re at it. When most people think of insulation, they typically think of the big pink batts of insulation. But did you know that insulation can be green, as in earth-friendly, too? One popular eco-friendly type of insulation is cellulose insulation. Keep reading to learn more about what cellulose insulation is, as well as the pros and cons of cellulose insulation.
What is Cellulose Insulation?
Cellulose insulation is a fiber insulation material that is made from 75 to 85 percent ground-up recycled paper or denim. These small particles form an insulation material that conforms to most spaces without disturbing the finish or structure. It is heavily treated (around 15% by volume) with ammonium sulfate, borax, or boric acid; this helps to make the insulation flame retardant and helps to reduce any issues with pests. Cellulose insulation is commonly used in enclosed existing walls, open new walls, and unfinished attic floors.
There are three types of cellulose insulation:
Loose-Fill Cellulose
This type of cellulose insulation is the easiest to install, as it can be blown into attic cavities and floors using the help of a blowing machine.
Dense Pack Cellulose
This is most commonly used for adding retrofit insulation. Dense packing into the wall cavities helps to add thermal insulation, as well as provide some level of soundproofing.
Wet-Applied Spray Cellulose
During the application process, water is added to the cellulose insulation. The material has the same thermal as sound retardant properties as dense packing. In new constructions, wet spray cellulose is almost always installed before drywall is put up.
Cellulose Insulation: Pros and Cons
Just like with any insulation material, cellulose insulation has positive and negative qualities. Here are the pros and cons of cellulose insulation:
Pros
- Cellulose Insulation contains more recycled material than any other type of commercially available insulation.
- This type of insulation is heat resistant and has a high R-value.
- It is very inexpensive.
- Cellulose insulation is resistant to pests, mold, and mildew.
- It is heavily treated with fire-retardant chemicals.
- The health risks from cellulose insulation are far fewer than those from fiberglass.
Cons
- Although it is less expensive, installation costs for cellulose insulation can run higher than other types of insulation.
- Both dry- and wet-blown cellulose insulation need a vapor barrier.
- This insulation tends to absorb moisture easily, which can lead to reducing long-term efficiency, as well as mold and rot.
- Dry-blown cellulose insulation sags and settles, reducing its R-value over time.
- Cellulose insulation generates a lot of dust during installation.
Contact Reeves’ Insulation for All of Your Insulation Needs
At Reeves Insulation we know that insulating your home is a big investment and we want to do what we can to make your home more energy efficient! Our team of professionals will be here to help guide you through the insulation process from start to finish. If you would like to know more information on adding insulation to your home or to schedule services, call or contact our office today!
