Blown-In Insulation vs. Fiberglass Batts: Which is the Superior Choice?

When it comes to choosing the best type of insulation for your home, it can be overwhelming with options. However, blown-in cellulose insulation is a great option to consider, especially for those living in colder climates. Here’s why:

• Higher R-Value: With 3.5 for every inch, the R value of blown-in cellulose can be 23% higher per inch as compared to fiberglass batts.
• Better Performance in Cold Temperatures: According to research conducted at the Oak Ridge National Lab, fiberglass can lose up to 50 percent of its R-value when it is in extremely cold temperatures, which makes cellulose the better option for homes with northern climates.
• Reduced Air Leakage: Because blown-in cellulose insulation can be packed more tightly than fiberglass batts, it can help reduce air leakage and drafts in your home.
• Eco-Friendly Option: Cellulose insulation is made of recycled materials such as newspaper and cardboard, making it a more eco-friendly option than traditional fiberglass insulation.
• Fewer Allergies: Unlike fiberglass, cellulose insulation doesn’t contain any harmful chemicals that can cause allergies or irritations.

Of course, the best insulation for your home will depend on your specific needs and circumstances. But, overall, blown-in cellulose insulation is a great consideration for those looking for a higher R-value, better performance in cold weather, and a more eco-friendly option.

Which Insulation is Better, Blown-in or Fiberglass Batts?

When it comes to insulating your home, you have two main options: blown-in insulation or fiberglass batt insulation. Both types of insulation have their advantages and disadvantages, but which one is better? The answer depends on your individual needs, but in general, blown-in cellulose insulation is the better option.

What are the Advantages of Blown-in Cellulose Insulation?

Blown-in cellulose insulation has several advantages over fiberglass batt insulation. Firstly, it is more effective at reducing air leakage and drafts, which can lead to significant energy savings over time. Secondly, blown-in cellulose insulation is made from recycled materials and is therefore more eco-friendly than fiberglass batt insulation. Additionally, blown-in cellulose insulation is easier to install than fiberglass batts, as the insulation can be blown into tight spaces and corners with ease. This makes it a great option for older homes with uneven walls and hard to reach areas. Some additional advantages of blown-in cellulose insulation include:

• It has a higher R-value than fiberglass batts
• It is fire-resistant and has a Class 1 fire rating
• It is resistant to settling and will maintain its insulation value over time

Why Does Blown-in Cellulose Insulation Have a Higher R-Value?

The R-value of insulation measures its resistance to heat flow. The higher the R-value, the better the insulation is at keeping your home warm in the winter and cool in the summer. Blown-in cellulose insulation has a higher R-value per inch than fiberglass batts. This is because blown-in cellulose insulation is denser than fiberglass batts and better at trapping air, which is a poor conductor of heat.

How Does Fiberglass Batt Insulation Compare to Blown-in Cellulose?

While fiberglass batt insulation is a popular choice for many homeowners, it has some disadvantages when compared to blown-in cellulose insulation. For starters, fiberglass batts can be difficult to install properly, especially in tight or hard to reach spaces. Fiberglass batts are also known to allow air leakage, which can lead to drafts and energy loss. Additionally, as mentioned earlier, fiberglass batts can lose up to 50% of their R-value in cold temperatures, which makes them a less effective option for homes in northern climates.

What Are the Disadvantages of Fiberglass Batt Insulation?

In addition to the above-mentioned disadvantages, fiberglass batt insulation has some other drawbacks to consider. One is that it can irritate the skin and eyes when touched, making it a less desirable option for DIY projects. Fiberglass insulation can also settle over time, reducing its insulation value, and it is less eco-friendly than blown-in cellulose insulation.

Why is Blown-in Cellulose Insulation Better for Homes in Northern Climates?

As mentioned earlier, fiberglass batt insulation can lose up to 50% of its R-value in cold temperatures. This means that homes in northern climates will not be as well insulated as they need to be with fiberglass batts, which can lead to higher energy bills and a less comfortable home. Blown-in cellulose insulation is a better option for homes in northern climates because it maintains its insulation value even in extremely cold temperatures.

What are the Benefits of Using Blown-in Cellulose Insulation in Older Homes?

Older homes often have uneven walls and hard to reach spaces that can make insulation installation challenging. Blown-in cellulose insulation is a great option for older homes because it can be easily blown into tight spaces, around obstructions, and into corners. This allows for more comprehensive insulation coverage than traditional fiberglass batts. Additionally, blown-in cellulose insulation can help reduce the transfer of sound, making it a good choice for homes in noisy urban settings. In conclusion, blown-in cellulose insulation is the better option when compared to fiberglass batts in terms of insulation effectiveness, installation, eco-friendliness, fire resistance, and overall value. Homeowners in northern climates or those with older homes should consider blown-in cellulose insulation as a top choice for insulation due to its superior insulation qualities.