Air leakages due to compromised insulation account for 25% to 40% of your heating and cooling usage. On the other hand, investing in an efficient home insulation can help you save between 10% and 20% on energy bills. Today, WMGB Home Improvement talks about blown-in insulation and how it can help manage energy loss in your home.
Why Choose Blown-In Insulation?
While fiberglass batts are among the most commonly used materials for insulation, they have major disadvantages that a blown-in insulation can address. Fiberglass insulation rolls come in 16- or 24-inch precut strips, greatly limiting their ability to cover oddly shaped nooks and crannies that are characteristic of attics where insulation is necessary. Blown-in insulation, also called loose-fill insulation, offers the perfect solution to this particular coverage issue. On top of that, loose-fill insulation installation is faster and more convenient compared to the tedious process of carrying unfaced fiberglass insulation rolls into your attic.
Materials Used
Blown-in insulation is composed of various loose materials with high R-value. R-value refers to the capacity of a material to resist heat; a higher R-value results in a better insulating capacity. Blown-in insulation has an R-value of 3.2 to 3.8 per inch and typically uses Styrofoam pellets or shreds of loose fiberglass. However, cellulose material is the most commonly used material for blown-in applications. Cellulose is resistant to fire and molds due to a combination of boric acid and other substances. The insulating material itself is made from a variety of wood-based elements, such as recycled newspapers and cardboard, making it a green product.
Application
Blown-in applications require the use of a mechanical blower, which mixes the cellulose with air. The mixture is then expelled through a hose. Blown-in insulation is ideal for closed-up walls and attic with cramped, hard-to-reach spaces. It can be applied over existing fiberglass insulation for an enhanced R-value.
Insulation, regardless of material, can cause your energy bills to skyrocket if not installed properly. It’s important to hire reputable contractors for the job. WMGB Home Improvement offers comprehensive home insulation services. We also provide home improvement products like egress windows. You may call us at (616) 328-6625. We serve Lansing and Grand Rapids, MI.
