You want your home to have the best insulation possible. Quality insulation protects your home from drafts, lowers utility bills, protects from mold and fire, and manages noise. With all the benefits of a good insulation, it’s important to know how to choose wisely. Here are some things to consider when choosing between blown-in insulation and spray foam.
Blown-in Insulation
Blown-in insulation is made of either fiberglass or cellulose. Cellulose material can settle after installation, which lowers its R-value—the rating that tells you how well an insulation keeps heat from leaving or entering your home.
Blown-in insulation was designed to fill holes and gaps in the attic, which inevitably has hard-to-reach nooks and crannies. It’s made of recycled materials, which makes it eco-friendly. Because it’s more airtight than rolled batting, blown-in insulation is also fire- and mold-resistant.
Spray Foam Insulation
Spray foam is made of polyurethane that expands and hardens after it’s sprayed. As it expands, it conforms to the exact shapes and dimensions of the space. The expansion also ensures that any cracks and holes will be sealed, which makes spray foam highly effective for blocking drafts and minimizing heat transfer.
There are two types of spray foam: open cell and closed cell. Closed cell insulation has a much higher R-value than open cell. Closed cell foam keeps moisture and air completely out because the cells are fully encapsulated. Open cells are not encapsulated. This allows the foam to expand more than closed cell and reach more of the space.
Factors to Consider When Choosing Insulation
Both blown-in and spray foam insulation are great options, but there could be a clear stand-out choice depending on your home’s needs and your budget.
Cost
Because it’s made from recycled materials, blown-in insulation is often a bit less expensive than spray foam. An insulation professional can give you an estimate for each type of insulation based on your space, region, and home needs.
Longevity
Anytime you invest in a home improvement project, you want it to last. Both blown-in and spray foam insulation have excellent longevity. Unless they suffer damage, both types of insulation can last 80–100 years.
R-Value
R-value is one of the most important features to consider when choosing an insulation type. A higher R-value means more effective insulation, which leads to lower utility bills and a noticeably more comfortable home. Depending on your geographic region, a high R-value may be more or less important, but a higher R-value always increases a home’s efficiency. Spray foam is capable of providing the highest R-value per inch due to its expansion and sealing ability.
Quality insulation is important to keep your home comfortable and efficient. Blown-in insulation and spray foam can both great options. A professional technician will be able to advise you on what’s best for your home and budget.
For more information about insulation and home care, subscribe to our blog!
Comments