Fiberglass Vs. Cellulose Insulation - A Comparison Guide

Fiberglass and cellulose are two materials often used for insulating your home. Both components can help save money on your heating and cooling, but they do it in different ways. In today’s blog, Superior Air Duct Cleaning explains the differences so you can decide which insulation is best for your home.

What Is Insulation?  

Insulation is the material used to maintain the temperature inside your home. By creating a thermal barrier of insulation in your walls, floors, and ceiling, you can keep warm in the winter and cool in the summer. Insulation is measured by a common standard called the R-value, which is the level of resistance to heat flow. The higher the R-value is, the better the insulation performs.

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What Is Fiberglass Insulation?

Fiberglass insulation is a sustainable, light pink material that comes in blown-in or batt insulation. Both materials can be installed loosely or densely, but batts are easier to install for DIY enthusiasts. The small glass fibers may become airborne and inhaled during installation, which can be bad for your health. If you decide to install fiberglass yourself, be sure to wear a mask until you seal the material inside the walls.    

What Is Cellulose Insulation?

Cellulose insulation is a blown-in material primarily made from recycled paper products. Technicians install cellulose in enclosed walls and unfinished attic floors in both new and existing homes. Since this insulation is made from paper, it does not present any health issues to the home dwellers or the installer.

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How Do They Differ?

When it comes to extreme temperatures, cellulose and fiberglass differ significantly. Fiberglass will lose up to 50% of its’ R-value once the outside temperature drops well below freezing, while cellulose insulation does not diminish in extreme climates.

Cellulose and fiberglass insulation also differ when you compare the environmental effects. Cellulose insulation is eco-friendlier than fiberglass because it contains a higher percentage of recycled content. Fiberglass takes more energy to produce and may pollute the air during the manufacturing process. Cellulose, on the other hand, is treated with borates, which are inert chemicals that are safe for installers and homeowners.

Superior Air Duct Cleaning: Your Insulation Removal Professionals

Old insulation can present health hazards for you and your family, and it can be dangerous to remove insulation on your own. Superior Air Duct Cleaning is here to help. With our safe insulation removal service, we use the best technology in the business to rid your attic of blown-in cellulose insulation. If you have low-quality or old insulation, contact us in western PA or eastern OH today.