Facts about Cellulose Insulation

There are many different types of insulation, but they are not created equal. While fiberglass insulation is popular, it is a poor option for homeowners who want an eco-friendly insulation that doesn’t sacrifice on safety or energy efficiency. Cellulose insulation is a great alternative that benefits both people and the Earth. If you’re unsure of how cellulose insulation compares to other types of insulation, here are some facts that can guide your decision-making.

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What is Cellulose Insulation?

Cellulose insulation is a fiber insulation material made from recycled paper. Among other insulations, cellulose has a much higher concentration of recycled materials and can contain up to 85% recycled newspaper. Small pieces of paper are fiberized so they can be densely packed to prevent airflow. Once the material is collected, it is treated with non-hazardous chemicals such as the mineral borate that works as flame retardants and resists pests and mold.

Are There Different Types of Cellulose Insulation?

Cellulose insulation typically comes in two forms: loose-fill and dense packed. Loose-fill cellulose insulation is typically used in attics while dense packed is used in walls and ceilings. Loose-fill and dense pack cellulose is installed with a blowing machine and is referred to as “blown in”. Cellulose insulation has recently become available in a batt or rolled out format.

Is Cellulose Insulation Good for the Earth?

Along with being made from a high amount of recycled materials, cellulose insulation has additional eco-friendly benefits. By reusing materials like newspaper, cellulose insulation prevents them from sitting in landfills and producing harmful greenhouse gases as they decompose. The process of making cellulose is more energy-efficient than other materials. Our cellulose insulation also requires less shipping and transport than other materials because it is produced locally, right here in Michigan.

Is Cellulose Insulation Safe for Your Home?

Despite being made from paper, cellulose insulation does not make your home vulnerable to fire. Cellulose insulation is treated with fire retardants such as ammonium sulfate, borax, and boric acid to meet all governmental safety requirements. Cellulose insulation can help control the spread of fire because it has a Class 1 Fire Rating. Fiberglass insulation is often faced with paper, which burns easily. Unsurprisingly, this causes cellulose to have a higher fire rating than faced fiberglass insulation.

How Does Cellulose Improve Your Home’s Performance?

Cellulose insulation is made from tiny pieces of paper, so it can effectively fit around obstacles like framing joists or recessed light fixtures. Having insulation that can be custom-fit means that it will perform better, effectively holding in heat during the winter and keeping out heat during the summer.

Cellulose insulation is a good investment that will keep your home energy efficient and eco-friendly. Ecotelligent Homes is trained to install cellulose insulation with an air sealing process to follow industry-leading practices, producing great results for homeowners in Metro Detroit.