Blown-In Insulation Guide: Cellulose vs Fiberglass Applications
Blown-in insulation offers excellent coverage for hard-to-reach areas and existing structures. This guide compares cellulose and fiberglass blown-in options, their applications, and installation processes.
What is Blown-In Insulation?
Loose-Fill Method
Blown-in insulation uses specialized equipment to blow loose fibers into wall cavities, attics, and other spaces. This method ensures complete coverage and excellent air sealing.
Dense-Pack Method
Dense-pack involves blowing insulation under pressure to achieve higher density and better performance. This method is ideal for retrofit applications.
Cellulose Insulation
Made from Recycled Paper
Composition:
- 75-85% recycled newspaper
- Borate fire retardants
- Mold inhibitors
Benefits:
- Excellent thermal performance (R-3.7 per inch)
- Superior sound absorption
- Fire-resistant treatment
- Affordable and widely available
Applications
Best uses:
- Attic insulation
- Wall cavity retrofits
- Hard-to-reach areas
- Soundproofing applications
Environmental Benefits
- Made from recycled materials
- Reduces landfill waste
- Carbon-neutral production
- Sustainable sourcing
Fiberglass Insulation
Glass Fiber Technology
Composition:
- Fine glass fibers
- Recycled glass content
- Binder materials
Benefits:
- Consistent performance
- Easy installation
- Fire-resistant
- Cost-effective
Applications
Best uses:
- Attic spaces
- Wall cavities
- Ceiling plenums
- Commercial buildings
Performance Characteristics
- Good thermal resistance
- Acoustic properties
- Moisture resistance when dry
- Long-term stability
Installation Process
Equipment Required
Blowing machines:
- Pneumatic conveying systems
- Dense-pack equipment
- Safety gear and ventilation
- Measuring tools
Site Preparation
Clear work areas:
- Remove obstacles
- Protect surfaces
- Set up containment
- Ensure proper ventilation
Application Methods
Loose-fill:
- Good for open attics
- Quick installation
- Lower density
- Good coverage
Dense-pack:
- Best for enclosed cavities
- Higher performance
- Slower process
- Superior air sealing
Cost Comparison
Material Costs
- Cellulose: $1.00-$2.00/sq ft
- Fiberglass: $0.80-$1.50/sq ft
Installation Costs
- Cellulose: $1.50-$3.00/sq ft
- Fiberglass: $1.20-$2.50/sq ft
Total Project Costs
- Small attic: $800-$2,000
- Whole house walls: $2,000-$6,000
- Commercial spaces: $3,000-$10,000+
Performance Comparison
Thermal Efficiency
Cellulose:
- R-3.7 per inch
- Good air sealing
- Minimizes convection
Fiberglass:
- R-3.0-R-4.3 per inch
- Consistent performance
- Stable over time
Moisture Resistance
Cellulose:
- Absorbs moisture
- Can lose R-value when wet
- Requires proper installation
- Fire retardants help prevent mold
Fiberglass:
- Repels moisture
- Maintains R-value
- Better for damp areas
- Resistant to mold growth
Sound Absorption
Cellulose:
- Excellent sound dampening
- Reduces airborne noise
- Good impact noise control
Fiberglass:
- Good sound absorption
- Effective in layers
- Better for high frequencies
Choosing the Right Material
Climate Considerations
Dry climates:
- Either material works well
- Fiberglass may be preferable
Humid climates:
- Fiberglass better moisture resistance
- Cellulose requires careful installation
Application Specific
Attic insulation:
- Both materials work well
- Cellulose often preferred for density
Wall retrofits:
- Dense-pack cellulose excellent
- Fiberglass good for uniform spaces
Soundproofing:
- Cellulose superior performance
- Fiberglass adequate for basic needs
Installation Challenges
Access Requirements
Wall cavities:
- Small access holes needed
- Dense-pack requires pressure
- Professional equipment essential
Attic spaces:
- Easier access
- Can be done in sections
- Less containment required
Containment and Cleanup
Dust control:
- Plastic sheeting required
- Negative air pressure helpful
- Professional cleanup recommended
Safety Considerations
Protective gear:
- Respirators for dust
- Safety glasses
- Gloves and coveralls
Environmental Impact
Cellulose Advantages
- High recycled content
- Reduces paper waste
- Biodegradable
- Sustainable production
Fiberglass Considerations
- Energy-intensive manufacturing
- Recycled glass content available
- Long-term durability
- Recyclable at end of life
Maintenance and Longevity
Expected Lifespan
Cellulose:
- 30-50 years with proper installation
- May settle over time
- Fire retardants break down
- Moisture can cause issues
Fiberglass:
- 50+ years lifespan
- Maintains shape and performance
- Resistant to settling
- Minimal maintenance required
Inspection and Monitoring
Annual checks:
- Look for settling
- Check for moisture
- Verify coverage
- Monitor performance
Professional Installation
Why Choose Professionals
- Specialized equipment
- Proper installation techniques
- Quality control
- Warranty coverage
DIY Considerations
- Basic attic work possible
- Wall retrofits require expertise
- Safety equipment needed
- Performance may suffer
Conclusion
Blown-in insulation provides excellent thermal and acoustic performance for residential and commercial applications. Cellulose offers superior sound absorption and environmental benefits, while fiberglass provides consistent performance and moisture resistance.
Choose based on your specific needs, budget, and application requirements. Contact Paramount Insulation for professional blown-in insulation services.