Saving Energy: Blown-in Insulation in the Attic

For Canadian homeowners planning to conduct blown-in insulation, it is crucial to understand the different types available and their respective benefits. The three most commonly used types of blown-in insulation are:

Fiberglass: Made from recycled glass and sand, fiberglass insulation is lightweight and resistant to moisture and fire. It provides excellent thermal performance and is often used in attics and walls. Its loose-fill nature makes it easy to install in hard-to-reach areas.

Cellulose: Composed primarily of recycled paper products treated with fire retardants, cellulose insulation is an eco-friendly option. It offers good thermal and sound insulation properties and is effective at filling gaps and voids in attics and walls. Cellulose is also resistant to pests and mold.

Rock Wool: Also known as mineral wool, rock wool is made from natural minerals such as basalt or diabase. It is highly resistant to fire, moisture, and pests. Rock wool provides excellent thermal and acoustic insulation and is suitable for a variety of applications, including attics, walls, and floors.

Each type of blown-in insulation has its own set of advantages, so it’s important to choose the one that best fits your specific needs and circumstances.

Fiberglass is an excellent insulation material for attics, floors, crawl spaces, and other areas in the home. When properly installed, it provides effective thermal insulation, helping to maintain comfortable indoor temperatures and improve energy efficiency.

Key Points about Fiberglass Insulation:

Installation: For fiberglass to be considered safe and effective, it must be installed by professionals with significant experience in blown-in insulation. Proper installation ensures optimal performance and safety.
Material Composition: Fiberglass consists of tiny glass fibers that form soft, lofty batts, resembling cotton candy in appearance. Despite its soft texture, it can be itchy and irritating to the skin.
Health Precautions: Disturbing or moving fiberglass insulation can release tiny particles into the air. These particles can cause itching, rashes, and skin irritation. Inhalation of these particles poses serious health risks, including nosebleeds, respiratory issues, and coughing.
To avoid these potential health hazards, it’s advisable to hire experienced professionals like Eco Spray Insulation for your blown-in insulation projects. Their expertise ensures a safe and effective installation, maximizing the benefits of fiberglass insulation while minimizing health risks.

Many people mistakenly believe that fiberglass insulation comes only in rolls or yellow or pink sheets. In reality, loose fill fiberglass is packaged in bags as loose insulation material. Here are some benefits of using loose fill fiberglass insulation:

Optimal Depth and Density: Installers can blow loose fill fiberglass to achieve the proper depth and density, ensuring maximum coverage and effectiveness.
Gap and Crevice Filling: Loose fill fiberglass excels at filling gaps and crevices in unfinished attic flooring, providing comprehensive insulation coverage.
Adaptability to Obstacles: It is especially useful in areas with many obstacles, such as attics with variable joist spacing, as it can easily adapt to the unique layout.
Enhanced Performance: By filling gaps and settling in well, loose fill fiberglass improves the performance of existing insulation, contributing to better overall energy efficiency.
Loose fill fiberglass insulation is an efficient and versatile solution for homeowners looking to improve their home’s thermal performance and energy savings.

Cellulose insulation, a popular option for decades, offers a sustainable approach to keeping your home comfortable. This eco-friendly material is made from recycled paper products, such as newspapers, treated with natural chemicals for pest and fire resistance.

While all insulation materials eventually degrade and lose effectiveness over time, cellulose blown-in insulation generally lasts between 20 to 30 years. Factors like the age of your home, severe weather exposure, and potential damage can influence its lifespan.

Upgrading to new insulation ensures optimal energy efficiency and comfort in your home. Consult a professional to assess your current insulation and determine if a replacement is necessary for a healthier and more sustainable living space.

Fiberglass Insulation:

Lightweight and easily transportable, making installation convenient.
Available in various forms, providing good thermal performance.
Naturally fire-resistant, enhancing home safety.
Cost-effective option for many homeowners.
Helps prevent mold and mildew growth.
Offers soundproofing capabilities.
May have a risk of animal infestation if not properly sealed.
Cellulose Insulation:

Made from recycled materials, making it eco-friendly.
Effectively plugs gaps, ensuring an energy-efficient building.
Maintains its R-value even in extremely cold conditions.
Mold resistant, health-friendly, and naturally fireproof.
Does not degrade over time, ensuring long-lasting performance.
Provides soundproofing benefits.
Deters animals and bugs, reducing the risk of infestations.
Choosing between fiberglass and cellulose insulation depends on your specific needs and priorities, such as cost, environmental impact, and resistance to mold and pests.

Blown-in insulation is a minimally invasive solution, perfect for existing homes seeking improved energy efficiency without major renovations. It provides multiple benefits, including enhanced energy efficiency, increased home value, and improved interior comfort.