Is Cotton a Good Insulator?
Cotton insulation is relatively new to the market and has gained great popularity with people seeking renewable insulation material. Cotton insulation made from recycled clothing and denim is an effective insulator and provides little energy to produce. Does this Spark an idea?
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Efficiency
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The thermal properties of cotton are similar to those of fiberglass, and cotton resists heat flow better than other insulation products. Cotton's R-value, or thermal resistance, ranges from 3.2 to 3.7 per inch. Cotton insulation has a Class 1 fire rating, the highest level of fire protection.
Environment
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Cotton is a renewable resource, and it can be recycled and composted at the end of its life. Unlike fiberglass and other materials, cotton is not sprayed with potentially dangerous substances; instead it is treated with the same flame retardant now used in baby clothes.
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Considerations
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Cotton can absorbs more moisture then other types of insulation material and can present a mildew issue if wall cavities are not allowed to dry. Additionally, because cotton insulation comes in batts, it will not seal cracks and crevices. Cotton insulation typically costs 15 percent to 20 percent more than fiberglass.
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References
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- Photo Credit Cotton plant -3 image by Alexey Burtsev from Fotolia.com
