At M.Y. Insulation, we use three types of insulation material to provide high-quality non-conducting protection to homes and businesses: spray foam, injection foam and blown-in cellulose. Though fiberglass is still a commonly used insulation material, we choose to work with cellulose for superior, affordable coverage. What's the difference in Blown-in Cellulose Vs. Fiberglass?
What is Blown-in Cellulose Insulation?
Cellulose insulation is made of shredded wood or paper; ours is composed of recycled newspapers coated with fire retardant. It’s a simple solution for empty spaces between exterior walls and internal sheetrock to slow down the transmission of heat or cold. We use a machine to blow the product into uninsulated spaces quickly, providing full coverage without having to open up entire sections of wall or flooring.
What is Fiberglass Insulation?
Fiberglass is just what it sounds like: glass particles, stretched into long, soft fibers. You’ll probably recognize it in its most common form, which is a large, soft, pink rectangular prism. Very popular as building insulation after its invention in the 1930s, fiberglass replaced fairly ineffective home insulation practices involving horse hair, mud and plastered newspapers.
Why Choose Blown-in Cellulose Vs. Fiberglass?
Though fiberglass does have a good R-rating upon installation, as it ages, that rating goes down. Fiberglass insulation breaks down over time, settling, shrinking and turning into small, dust-like particles. The shrinkage leaves big gaps in coverage, allowing cold air, hot air, moisture and pests into your home. Traditionally, the solution is to refill walls and attics after 15-20 years.
Unfortunately, refilling a building with fresh fiberglass isn’t so simple, because the old insulation needs to be removed first. Old fiberglass removal is not an enviable job! Often, old insulation is moldy as well as powdery and tough to pick up. You need protective gear to get the job done, from safety glass and gloves to a full-face mask. Otherwise, tiny particles of glass will get into every crevice, including eyes and the throat, causing discomfort, irritation, coughing and itching.
In addition to causing personal discomfort, fiberglass dust tends to fly around and fill the air instead of sweeping neatly into a disposal bag. Complete removal involves sweeping, vacuuming, and usually mold treatment.
These are all great reasons to forego fiberglass insulation in favor of cellulose! Even better, cellulose insulation provides great value for your dollar, it is mold resistant, and we don’t have to completely open whole sections of drywall and flooring to install it.
Choose Blown-Cellulose Insulation at M.Y. Insulation
M.Y. Insulation provides insulation services in Indiana, Michigan and the surrounding area. Get in touch to book cellulose insulation services, spray foam insulation services, injection foam insulation services, or to ask any questions about our products or services. We’re always happy to help!