When it comes to insulating your home, there are a variety of options available on the market. One popular choice is fiberglass insulation, which has been used for decades due to its affordability and effectiveness. However, there is another type of insulation that is gaining popularity for its superior performance – cellulose insulation.
Cellulose insulation is made from recycled paper products, such as newspapers and cardboard, that have been treated with fire retardant chemicals. This eco-friendly material offers several advantages over traditional fiberglass insulation.
One of the main benefits of cellulose insulation is its higher R-value per inch compared to fiberglass. R-value measures an insulating material’s resistance to heat flow – the higher the R-value, the better the insulating properties. Cellulose insulation typically has an R-value of around 3.5-3.8 per inch, while fiberglass typically ranges from 2.2-2.7 per inch.
see this means that cellulose insulation can provide better thermal protection for your home, helping you save on energy costs in both hot and cold climates. In fact, studies have shown that homes insulated with cellulose can save up to 20% on heating and cooling bills compared to those insulated with fiberglass.
Another advantage of cellulose insulation is its superior air sealing properties. Cellulose is denser than fiberglass, which allows it to fill gaps and cracks more effectively, reducing air leakage in your home. This not only improves energy efficiency but also helps prevent drafts and moisture buildup inside walls.
Furthermore, cellulose insulation is less prone to settling over time compared to fiberglass. Fiberglass batts can lose their effectiveness when compressed or disturbed during installation or over time due to gravity pulling them down within walls or ceilings. On the other hand, cellulose blown-in insulation maintains its density and coverage even after years of use.
Additionally, cellulose insulation is a more sustainable option for environmentally conscious homeowners. Made from recycled materials and treated with non-toxic chemicals, cellulose has a lower environmental impact compared to fiberglass production processes that require large amounts of energy and resources.
In conclusion, while fiberglass insulation has been a popular choice for many years due to its affordability and availability, cellulose insulation offers superior performance in terms of thermal protection, air sealing properties, durability,and sustainability.If you’re looking for an effective way to insulate your home while reducing energy costs and environmental impact,it may be worth considering upgrading beyond traditional fiberglass towards utilizing cellulosic alternatives like blown-in or spray-applied forms instead!
