Are you considering choosing between cellulose and fiberglass insulation for your attic? Both insulation materials offer unique benefits, but it can be difficult to make an informed decision before doing some research. We’re here to help. This blog post will provide a comprehensive overview of cellulose and fiberglass as options for insulating your attic.
We’ll look at their particular advantages and disadvantages so that you can make an educated choice when deciding on the best option for your home. With all the information we provide here, you will better understand how these two types of insulation compare with each other, enabling you to choose which one best suits your needs.
What Is Cellulose Insulation?
Cellulose insulation is an effective and efficient way to keep your home better insulated. This type of insulation is usually made up of recycled paper materials and fire retardant. It’s a popular option for insulating attics, as cellulose has a higher R-value than most other types of insulation. Not only will cellulose insulation save you money and help protect the environment, but it also helps reduce sound transmission. All in all, cellulose insulation is an ideal choice if you’re looking for improved energy efficiency and sound control in your home.
Pros of Cellulose Insulation
Low cost
Cellulose insulation is one of the market’s most affordable types of insulation. It is made from recycled paper products or denim, making it a cost-effective option.
Easy to install
Cellulose insulation is also very easy to install. It can be blown in or bought as a loose fill. The blown in option uses a special machine, which makes it a quick and easy process.
Highly effective
Cellulose insulation is also very effective at insulating your home. It has a high R-value, which means it will help to keep your home warm in the winter and cool in the summer.
Cons of Cellulose Insulation
Might be hard to find
Even though it is one of the insulations that has been around the longest, cellulose ingredients are not readily available. Boron, one of the ingredients in the insulation, has a limited supply. Therefore cellulose insulation may not always be available.
Could be susceptible to mold
Cellulose insulation can be susceptible to mold and mildew if wet. Due to its ingredients, cellulose and moisture of any kind do not get along. When they meet, it could lead to health problems for those with allergies or asthma.
Not as durable
Cellulose insulation is made from recycled paper products, which means it is not as durable as other types of insulation. It can pack down over time or even shift.
What Is Fiberglass Insulation?
Fiberglass insulation is a common and efficient type of insulation that is used in attics, as well as other areas of the home. It’s made from recycled glass, sand, and other materials that can help regulate temperatures more efficiently than cellulose insulation.
Fiberglass insulation could be the perfect choice for your attic if you’re looking for optimal energy efficiency in your home. It’s safe to install and helps stabilize the temperature inside – no matter the time of year. Plus, fiberglass insulation can last for up to 100 years with proper maintenance, ensuring you get maximum bang for your buck.
Pros of Fiberglass Insulation
Cost-effective
The most cost-effective fiberglass insulation solution is typically to purchase pre-cut fiberglass batting wrapped in an impermeable material such as plastic or foil. This type of fiberglass insulation can easily fit between walls and have a tight seal that will help keep your home at the perfect temperature. When installed properly, fiberglass insulation may provide long-term savings on heating and cooling bills as well as providing additional protection from fires in the home.
Mold resistant
This is one type of product that won’t succumb to mold, thanks to its closed-cell structure and inorganic fiber strands. Not only will fiberglass keep your home snug and warm, but it will also help ensure that any unwanted mold won’t sprout indoors. If you’re looking for an effective way to insulate your home and guard against potential mold issues, fiberglass may be the way to go.
Fire resistant
Fiberglass insulation could also help protect against fires. It is fire resistant, meaning it can help keep the flames contained if they were to start in your home. It’s an extra layer of security that will give you peace of mind. So when considering which type of insulation makes sense for your project, don’t forget to consider the added safety benefits of fiberglass.
Cons of Fiberglass Insulation
Skin irritant
A downside to fiberglass insulation is that it can irritate the skin. The glass fibers in fiberglass insulation can cause itchiness, redness, and swelling if they come into contact with the skin. You may want to avoid using fiberglass insulation if you have sensitive skin.
Rodents like it
Rodents like fiberglass insulation. It turns out these critters use fiberglass to build nesting sites in the home. After studying this behavior, researchers have found that fiberglass acts as insulation due to its ability to hold warmth better than traditional materials rodents use. This leads some homeowners to opt for alternatives to deter these little visitors.
Moisture build-up
Fiberglass does not always prevent vapor from building up, and there are several environmental conditions that will cause moisture to form under fiberglass insulation. The moisture needs an escape path in order for it to not persist inside the house.
Conclusion
Cellulose insulation is a “smart” ecological product with thermal, sound-deadening, and fireproofing properties that provide energy efficiency and comfortable living conditions. Fiberglass insulation has some drawbacks in comparison to cellulose, but overall it is still an excellent environmentally friendly insulator.
When deciding to consult with an HVAC professional, it is important to get the most accurate information for specific needs. The certified technicians at Anthem Heating & Air Conditioning are happy to help answer any questions you have, so you can be sure you make the best decision for your home or business.