Once upon a time, the only insulation available to homeowners was batt insulation, which comes in the form of large sheets. Yet these days the options are much more vast. If you would like to learn more about the types of insulation available today, read on. This article will provide a handy guide to the use and benefits of blow-in insulation.
The Basics
Blow-in insulation is distinguished from batt and other types of insulation by the fact that it comes loose, rather than in fixed sheets or rolls. This makes the installation process much easier. Rather than going through the time consuming process of affixing large sections of batt to the walls and floors, blow-in insulation is installed by quite literally blowing it into position.
Different Types
Blow-in insulation may be made out of one of two different materials: fiberglass and cellulose. In terms of their ultimate insulating power—a power measured in terms of so-called R-value—there is not much difference between the two materials. In other words, they will both prevent energy loss with the same degree of efficiency.
There is one crucial difference between cellulose and fiberglass insulation, however—one that leads many people to opt for cellulose. This has to do with the fact that cellulose possesses the additional advantage of being way more fire resistant. In fact, this type of insulation can boost your home's resistance to fire by up to 57%.
Insulation Volume
In order to achieve the desired degree of insulation, it is important to install your blow-in to a specific depth. And, because blow-in insulation is sold in large bags, this means that you will need to determine the appropriate number of bags for your insulating project. Generally speaking, the colder the climate you live in, the greater the depth of blow-in insulation will need to be to achieve a particular R-value.
Begin by measuring the area of the space to be insulated. Then, with this information, consult an insulating table to help figure out the number of bags of insulation you'll need to get to a particular R-value.
Installation Method
Compared to other types of insulation, installing blow-in is a virtual—or even a literal—breeze. To get the job done, however, you will need to look into renting a blower machine at one of your local home improvement stores. Be aware that many such stores will include a free blower rental should you choose to purchase your insulation from them. Once you've got the blower, all you have to do is fill its hopper with insulation, run the hose to the area being insulated, and turn the machine on, allowing it to blow the insulation into place.
For more information, contact local professionals like All Weather Shield Inc.
Share6 October 2016
