What is Cellulose Insulation?
Cellulose insulation is made from recycled newspaper and has a neutral pH, so it won’t cause any problems with your home’s moisture management system. Cellulose is an excellent insulator when blown into wall cavities, under flooring, or anywhere you need to keep heat out or help control humidity. Cellulose insulation is also known as “old-fashioned” insulation because it was the first type of insulation used in home construction. Today, blown-in cellulose can be found in new construction.
How is Cellulose Made?
Cellulose is made by grinding up recycled newspaper, cardboard, rice hulls, hemp fibers, or other natural fibers. The paper pulp is then converted into a slurry that is sprayed onto a rotating woven fabric belt and dried. The dried material is then chopped into granules that are sized to fit into standard insulation bags. Cellulose insulation is produced in a variety of R-values, ranging from R-3 to R-21. Because cellulose insulation is made from recycled newspaper, it has a carbon footprint that is very low compared to other types of insulation.
Types of Cellulose Insulation
There are three primary types of cellulose insulation: Cellulose Blown-In, Cellulose Loose-Fill, and Cellulose Loose-Fill with Vapor Barrier. Cellulose Blown-In insulation is installed inside wall cavities or between joists. The material is blown into place with a special machine, so it’s not practical for do-it-yourselfers. Cellulose Loose-Fill and Cellulose Loose-Fill with Vapor Barrier are available in bags or bulk bags. Both types are intended to be used as a space-filler in walls or as a layer under subflooring.
Pros of Installing Cellulose Insulation
– Very low-cost insulation. Cellulose insulation is an economical insulation that can be applied in a variety of areas in your home. – Excellent insulator. Cellulose insulation is a very good thermal insulator, so it can help reduce your energy bills. – Great for moisture control. It’s important to control moisture in wall cavities because high humidity can lead to mold and rot. – Easy to install. Cellulose insulation is easy to install and works well for DIY projects.
Final Words: Should You Install It?
When you take all aspects of cellulose insulation into account, it’s easy to see why it is the preferred choice of many homeowners. Cellulose insulation is inexpensive, effective at retaining heat, and easy to install. There are, however, some health risks associated with installing cellulose insulation, so you must take care to follow the manufacturer’s recommendations regarding installation procedures. If you want to save money on your energy bills and protect your home against the elements, cellulose insulation is an excellent choice.
