Common Insulation
So what are the common attic insulation products available for attics? A commonly used insulation is blown-in loose fill insulation. Why Is Loose-Fill a Suitable Insulation?
Loose fill cellulose is tightly packed. The R-value is greater. R-value is resistance value. You can usually get 40% more R-value from this insulation product. When this resistance (heat loss) is restricted, there is less energy lost through your home. Loose cellulose is environmentally friendly because it is made of recycled paper, cardboard or newsprint. Fiber-fill poses less of a health risk than fiberglass to the lungs. Cellulose fiber can be used in most residential homes. Another benefit is that cellulose has no seams or gaps unlike fiberglass batts. When cellulose is densely installed, it doesn’t allow air combustion and will impede the spread of fires. |
What is Loose-Fill
Loose-fill can consist of cellulose, fiberglass or rock wool. This product can come in the form of loose fibers or fiber pellets. A machine will blow the fill into the attic using pneumatic equipment by a professional installer. Loose-fill attic insulation products that use cellulose will consist of recycled newspaper. The paper is treated with fire retardant chemicals to make it fire proof. This insulation product is considered probably the best for keeping heat, cold and sound in their perspective places. |
One of the drawsbacks to cellulose is that when it has deteriorated, it will not provide fire safety. Furthermore, it will not properly insulate the home.
Unfortunately, cellulose is more expensive than fiberglass. And when you're looking to shave the budget, this might be an area you'll axe. Let's face it, many of you will go for pretty kitchen taps well over more expensive insulation.
A professional attic insulation contractor will be able to calculate the cost versus savings.
Another drawback with cellulose is that it absorbs more moisture than other types of attic insulation products. So as you renovate in the attic area, make sure that NO moisture has been getting inside the building envelope.
Poor attic ventilation can also cause moisture build-up. So ensure that the attic is designed with proper ventilation. Remember, the attic are the lungs for your house. It must breathe.
Moisture build-up in the attic will be absorbed by the cellulose product. And when moisture gets in to the cellulose, it begins to break down and not perform like it should.
So although it is a good insulator, you should monitor for attic moisture to ensure the attic insulation is working optimally.
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