Whether you are building a new house or renovating an old one, insulation is an important part of the equation. But what kind of insulation should you use? The answer depends on many factors, including budget and durability. If you have specific questions about the differences between fiberglass insulation and cellulose insulation, this blog series will compare the two types of insulation to help you make a decision on what type is best for you. What is the Difference Between Fiberglass Insulation and Cellulose Insulation
Fiberglass Insulation Material
Fiberglass insulation is manufactured in batts and rolls, which are then cut to size. These batts and rolls are typically made of polyester fibers, polyester scrim, and paper backing. Although fiberglass is a mineral material that can be recycled, it is not considered green because of the petroleum solvents used during production. Fiberglass insulation has many benefits, including fire resistance and mold resistance. Fiberglass will not burn like other insulation when exposed to a fire source, making it safer than other types of insulation materials if there was ever an accident or fire in your home. Cellulose or wool insulation products can contain organic materials (such as cotton) that can attract mold growth inside your walls over time if left unventilated or undisturbed for extended periods of time; fiberglass does not support mold growth like these other types do because it does not contain any organic components like cotton!
Cellulose Insulation Material
Cellulose insulation is made from recycled plant-based paper materials and treated with chemicals, such as borates, to provide insect, fire, and water resistance. Cellulose insulation adheres to the walls of your home or building, providing a dense layer of protection that can help reduce energy costs and improve indoor air quality. Cellulose insulation is more environmentally friendly than fiberglass because it’s made from recycled materials instead of mined minerals. It also has a higher R-value per pound than fiberglass—meaning you get greater thermal performance with less material in your walls or floors.
Both are Thermal Insulators
Both fiberglass and cellulose are thermal insulators, meaning they can slow the spread of heat through your walls, floors, and ceilings.
- Fiberglass insulation is a synthetic material that’s made from glass fibers or other man-made materials, such as polypropylene or polyethylene. It comes in batts (layers), rolls, or loose-fill (powdered) form. Batts are used in walls between studs; rolls go around pipes; loose fill is blown into wall cavities with an air gun.
- Cellulose insulation is made from recycled newspaper printed on 100% post-consumer waste paper with no added dyes or chemicals; it’s classified as safer than traditional fiberglass products because of its non-toxic nature. It can be blown into attics via a special nozzle attached to a vacuum cleaner hose, which reduces dust problems compared to traditional forms of installation.
While both fiberglass and cellulose are great at keeping heat inside your house during cold weather months, there are some differences between these two types of insulation that should be taken into consideration before you install either one in your home or business building. If you still have more questions about insulation and what type of insulation is ideal for you, contact Century Insulation. We are your trusted local insulation company near Brooklyn Park, Minnesota. We look forward to helping you!