Cons of Blown-In Attic Insulation: Poor installation can lead to uneven coverage, material waste, and even structural issues like sagging ceilings. Hiring a skilled installer is crucial to getting the most out of this insulation type.
It's also fire-resistant. Rodents generally are not drawn to cellulose insulation, either.
Can be messy during installation – The loose cellulose fibers blown into a home during the insulation process produce significant dust during installation, which can create a mess for homeowners.
Batt insulation is more effective over the life of the building. It is true that blown-in insulation is considered to be more effective as a thermal barrier, however, this effectiveness is only temporary and will not last for the life of the building.
Yes, breathing in fiberglass insulation can be harmful. Fiberglass is made from tiny glass fibers that can irritate the respiratory system when inhaled. Short-term exposure may cause symptoms like coughing, throat irritation, and difficulty breathing.
Moisture Sensitivity: One of the major drawbacks of blown-in insulation is its susceptibility to moisture. If your attic has a moisture problem or experiences water leaks, the insulation can become damp, leading to mold growth and reduced effectiveness.
There are other types of insulation, but these are the most common. The best non-toxic insulation is either mineral wool or foam insulation inserts.
Under optimal conditions, blown-in cellulose insulation will last anywhere from 20 to 30 years. The lifetime of air blown-in cellulose is affected by a variety of factors, which is why it should be professionally mounted from the beginning.
Use natural materials, if possible, in areas of the house with low or no moisture. Options include cotton from post-industrial scrap denim, sheep's wool, hemp and cellulose from recycled newspaper, and other natural fibers. Keep in mind that cellulose insulation runs the risk of settling over time.
Budget: If you're working with a limited budget, blown-in cellulose might be the better option due to its lower installation cost. Energy Efficiency: If your priority is the highest possible energy efficiency, you may want to consider spray foam, particularly closed-cell foam.
If you live in an older home, it may be time to remove your old blown in insulation material. A proper replacement will help lower utility bills, retain the value of your property, and keep you and your family comfortable all year round.
Can I put plywood over insulation in the attic? Yes you can install plywood subflooring directly over the floor joists and insulation on your floor. You need to install rigid insulation boards on top of the attic flooring joists and then install plywood over the top.
Insulation levels are specified by R-Value. R-Value is a measure of insulation's ability to resist heat flow. The higher the R-Value, the better the thermal performance of the insulation. The recommended level for most attics is to insulate to R-38 or about 10 to 14 inches, depending on insulation type.
While cellulose insulation itself is treated to be mold-resistant, the surrounding structure may not be. Understanding how and why mold is likely to occur can help you prevent serious structural damage. Given these risks, swift action is imperative if you suspect your cellulose insulation has become wet.
One of the most effective methods for combatting mice infestations is homes insulated with spray foam. Homes insulated with spray foam are renowned for their exceptional airtightness and insulation properties.
Wet insulation in a wall will migrate to the bottom soaking the wallboard and framing materials. Wetness (existing even just for a few days) will not only reduce the insulating quality of the insulation, but it might not dry soon enough to prevent mold and wood decay from forming.
Cellulose Insulation
The best kind of blow-in insulation comes from cellulose. Products such as Nu-Wool cellulose insulation are made of recycled newspapers. There are no microscopic bits of dust from minerals, rocks, or glass that might get into your or your family's lungs.
The U.S. Department of Energy recommends attic insulation levels of R-49 to R-60 for most homes in colder climates, and R-30 to R-49 for homes in warmer climates.
On average, the cost of blown-in insulation ranges from $1.50 to $2.80 per square foot, leading to an average cost of blown-in insulation between $1,500 and $2,800 for a 1,000-square-foot area.
While it varies by type, blown-in cellulose is a type of insulation that can typically be recycled. The blower tool deploys the material to fill wall cavities, making it ideal for hard-to-reach spaces and poorly insulated areas in attics or crawl spaces.
Both cellulose and fiberglass are energy-efficient insulation materials, but cellulose has a slight edge due to its higher R-value. The R-value for cellulose insulation is approximately 3.2 to 3.8 per inch, while fiberglass insulation typically has an R-value of 2.2 to 2.7 per inch.
Respiratory Issues
In the same way that these microscopic shards can cut external skin, they can also become embedded in the internal tissue of the lungs and throat. This can cause: Coughing and throat irritation. Wheezing and shortness of breath.
Thermafiber® Safing FF is a formaldehyde-free mineral wool insulation that excels in many critical fire containment applications. Owens Corning's formaldehyde-free insulation solutions continue to shape the industry's standards for enhanced fire protection and more eco-conscious building practices.
Health hazards of interacting with exposed insulation include: Risks of skin, eye and lung irritation. Potential for mold and mildew growth. Risk of increased health problems for kids, as uncovered insulation isn't child-proof.