When it comes to insulation materials for your attic, blown-in insulation is one of the best options out there. It’s cost-efficient, affordable, and most importantly, reliable. And with unpredictable temperatures and weather, having the right insulation is absolutely vital for your home. However, re-insulating parts of your home such as your attic can be a daunting task. You might not know where to start, what you need to do to prepare, or how to make sure attic insulation has been properly installed. There are a lot of considerations around material, ventilation, and processes that need to be kept in mind as you ensure your attic is insulated effectively.
Energy Efficiency
Blown in insulation is much more airtight than standard insulation that comes in the form of rolled batting. The blown material is smaller and able to get into tiny cracks and crevices of your attic, where air typically leaks through. This versatile material can fill in around beams, pipes, and other uniquely shaped objects and spaces. Its ability to seal tightly makes it a much better and more energy-efficient solution than rolled batting. It is also moisture resistant, so it prevents mold, odor, and rot from creeping into your home.
Materials
There are two main types of insulation today. Fiberglass can come in both rolled batting and blown forms, while cellulose comes in blown form only. Fiberglass is made up of recycled glass and sand. They are both renewable and abundant resources which makes it an eco-friendly solution for the home and environment. It’s one of the most tested insulation products on the market today. Cellulose is composed of recycled and environmentally safe materials as well. Blown in cellulose can settle up to 20%, losing R-value over time, while fiberglass insulation has very little to no settling.
Cost
Like many other high quality and energy-efficient materials, blown in insulation can be more costly than lower quality alternatives, but it can create substantial savings in your energy bills. The money you give on the install will typically be recovered by your utility savings over the next 2-4 years.
Noise
Due to its airtight seal, this type of insulation is better able to stop noise from traveling through walls. Whether it’s your neighbors or it’s the pounding rain and thunder, this insulation will act as a sound buffer. It can give you the quiet that you’ve been needing.
Installation
Installing blown in insulation is a very quick and easy procedure. Kneeling down on the floor for hours upon hours is no longer an essential part of the process. Simply blow the material out of a hose into the space. This creates a perfect thermal protective blanket of insulation.
Fire Resistance
This airtight material is excellent for reducing the risk of fires. Its fire retardant capabilities are due to the tight sealing that prevents air from flowing through small spaces and fueling the flame.
Overall longer-term benefits
In a typical install, blown insulation creates enhanced energy efficiency throughout the building. Blown insulation is a cost-effective application, with satisfactory insulation value, and an affordable budget commitment. However, these are products that require expertise during the installation process. It means that a professional approach is recommended to ensure peak performance for the product. Good contractors follow the building code, maintain schedules, and they stay on budget. And while the DIY approach might be inviting for some homeowners, the finished results of a professional job are far more preferable.
We are all used to experiencing hot and cold templates fluctuating. Whether or not we are ready for these conditions is another story. Increase your home’s energy efficiency by upgrading to blown in insulation for your home. It will protect your house from the outside environment and keep you and your family comfortable inside.