Fiberglass Compared With Cellulose
When comparing types of insulation, the two most common materials are fiberglass and cellulose. Fiberglass and cellulose materials offer different advantages for your insulating needs as well as other factors that can influence your choice of one product over another. Does this Spark an idea?
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Types
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Fiberglass comes in blanket form as batts or rolls that fit between joists and studs or as loose-fill that is sprayed directly into open cavities or behind walls through drilled holes. Cellulose insulation comes in loose-fill that is applied dry or moistened with an adhesive.
Installation Methods
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DIY homeowners can easily install fiberglass blankets, but loose-fill materials require the use of special equipment and proper training. For safety purposes, consider hiring a professional to install cellulose and fiberglass loose-fill.
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Insulating Properties
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Fiberglass blankets offer a steady R-value, the rating that represents the insulation's ability to resist heat transfer. Both loose-fill fiberglass and cellulose have varying R-values and must have a certain depth and weight to maintain a specific R-value.
Fire and Moisture
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Cellulose contains fire retardants to prevent combustibility while fiberglass is naturally flame resistant. On the other hand, fiberglass does not withstand moisture as well as cellulose and needs to be replaced if wet.
Health Risks
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Both fiberglass and cellulose pose health risks for allergy sensitive people. To prevent irritating these allergies, wear protective clothing and masks and cover the insulation with the appropriate wall covering as soon as possible.
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