How Good Is Blown in Cellulose Insulation?

Cellulose

• Cellulose is a smart choice for the environmentally conscious homeowner. It is made up of 80 percent post-consumer content like old newspapers. The material is treated with chemicals to make it resistant to fire and insect activity. The poperties of cellulose make it more efficient at blocking airflow than fiberglass. The moisture retaining abilities of cellulose can cause a mold-friendly environment, however.

Cellulose Application

• Cellulose can be applied wet or dry; the site characteristics dictate the method of application. Dry blown-in application is used for existing walls, attic floors and other areas with supportive material. Wet application is recommended for open cavities (e.g. exposed walls in new construction). Hire a professional for wet application to avoid a watery mix that can create mold issues. You can rent the equipment for a dry application at most rental centers.

R-Value

• Regardless of insulation medium the R-value is a standard measurement of effectiveness. The R-value is based on material type, thickness and density. However, R-values will be negatively impacted by compression. Most U.S. homes are under insulated according to current recommendations. Go to the United States Department of Energy website to find the insulation recommendations in your area.

Home Energy Audit

• Consider hiring a home energy auditor before starting any energy conserving home improvement project. A home energy auditor will use several tools to discover energy leaks in your home (e.g. blowers and infrared technology). Your auditor can provide insulation and other home energy recommendations. Contact your local utility company for home energy auditor recommendations. Access the Energy Star's Home Energy Yardstick program for a simple assessment of how your home measures up against similar ones.