Batt vs. Blown-In Insulation: What’s the Difference?

When it comes to making your home more energy efficient, choosing the right insulation type is one of the most important decisions you can make. Two of the most common options are batt insulation and blown-in insulation—but how do they differ, and which one is best for your needs? At Koala Insulation of Greater Ann Arbor, we specialize in both types and can help you make the right choice for your home, budget, and climate. In this guide, we’ll break down the key differences between batt and blown-in insulation so you can make an informed decision.

What is Batt Insulation?

Batt insulation is made of pre-cut fiberglass or mineral wool panels that fit between wall studs, ceiling joists, and floor joists. It’s one of the most recognizable forms of insulation—those large pink or yellow rolls you often see in home improvement stores.
Key features of batt insulation:

• Material: Fiberglass or mineral wool
• Form: Pre-cut panels or rolls
• Best suited for: New construction or spaces with open access to walls and ceilings
• Installation: Panels are laid or fitted between framing members
  Batt insulation is great for straightforward spaces with minimal obstructions, making it a popular choice for builders and DIY projects.

What is Blown-In Insulation?

Blown-in insulation, sometimes called loose-fill insulation, consists of small particles of fiberglass, cellulose, or mineral wool that are blown into place using specialized equipment. It can fill in irregular spaces and hard-to-reach areas more effectively than batt insulation.
Key features of blown-in insulation:

• Material: Fiberglass, cellulose, or mineral wool
• Form: Loose particles
• Best suited for: Attics, retrofits, and spaces with many obstructions
• Installation: Applied using a blowing machine for even coverage
  Blown-in insulation is excellent for improving the thermal performance of older homes without major renovations.

Installation Process: Batt vs. Blown-In

Batt Insulation Installation
Batt insulation is installed by cutting the panels to fit snugly between studs, joists, or rafters. It’s important to avoid compressing the material, as this can reduce its effectiveness. For best results, professional installers from Koala Insulation of Greater Ann Arbor ensure there are no gaps or spaces where heat can escape.
Blown-In Insulation Installation
Blown-in insulation requires specialized equipment to blow the loose particles into the desired space. This method allows the material to settle into gaps, corners, and around obstacles, creating a seamless blanket of coverage. It’s a quick process and can usually be completed in just a few hours.

R-Value Comparison

The R-value of insulation measures its ability to resist heat flow—the higher the R-value, the better the insulation performance.

• Fiberglass batt insulation: R-2.9 to R-3.8 per inch
• Blown-in fiberglass: R-2.2 to R-2.9 per inch
• Blown-in cellulose: R-3.1 to R-3.8 per inch
  While both types can achieve high R-values, the effectiveness of each depends on proper installation. A poorly installed batt may underperform compared to a properly installed blown-in system.

Advantages of Batt Insulation

1. Cost-Effective – Often less expensive upfront than blown-in insulation.
2. Widely Available – Found in most home improvement stores.
3. Easy to Handle – Can be installed without specialized equipment.
4. Predictable Coverage – Works well in new construction or renovation where walls are open.

Advantages of Blown-In Insulation

1. Excellent Coverage – Fills gaps and irregular spaces more effectively.
2. Great for Retrofits – Can be installed in existing walls and attics with minimal disruption.
3. Quick Installation – Most projects can be completed in a day.
4. Good Soundproofing – Dense coverage can help reduce noise transfer.

Which is Better for Attics?

For open attics in new construction, batt insulation can be an affordable choice. However, for existing attics or those with lots of obstructions, blown-in insulation provides better coverage and fewer air leaks. At Koala Insulation of Greater Ann Arbor, we often recommend blown-in insulation for attic upgrades because it creates a continuous thermal barrier that’s harder to achieve with batts.

Which is Better for Walls?

Batt insulation works well for walls during construction or when drywall has been removed. But if you’re upgrading an existing wall without tearing it apart, blown-in insulation is the best solution—it can be inserted through small holes, leaving your walls intact.

Climate Considerations in Ann Arbor

Ann Arbor experiences cold winters with heavy snowfall and warm, humid summers. This means your insulation must perform well in both heating and cooling seasons.

• Batt insulation can be a solid choice for new builds, where exact fits and vapor barriers are easy to install.
• Blown-in insulation is excellent for boosting existing homes’ efficiency, especially older properties that may have gaps and inconsistent coverage.
  Our team at Koala Insulation of Greater Ann Arbor can assess your home’s current insulation and recommend the best approach for year-round comfort and energy savings.

Cost Factors

The cost of insulation depends on factors like square footage, material type, and installation complexity.

• Batt insulation is generally cheaper per square foot for new builds or open-wall projects.
• Blown-in insulation may cost more upfront but can deliver better long-term energy savings due to superior coverage.
  A free estimate from Koala Insulation of Greater Ann Arbor will help you understand exactly what to expect for your home.

Maintenance and Longevity

Both batt and blown-in insulation can last 20–30 years or longer if kept dry and undisturbed. However, moisture damage, pest infestations, or settling can reduce performance.
Blown-in insulation may settle slightly over time, reducing its R-value, but this can be addressed by adding more material. Batts are less likely to settle but can develop gaps if the building shifts.

Making the Right Choice

Choosing between batt and blown-in insulation comes down to your home’s layout, your budget, and whether you’re building new or upgrading an existing structure.
Choose Batt Insulation if:

• You’re building new or renovating with walls open
• You want a lower upfront cost
• Your space has regular shapes and few obstacles
  Choose Blown-In Insulation if:
• You’re upgrading an existing home without major demolition
• You need to fill irregular spaces and gaps
• You want maximum coverage in attics or walls

Conclusion

Both batt and blown-in insulation can significantly improve your home’s comfort and energy efficiency when installed correctly. The best choice depends on your home’s design, age, and your specific goals for energy savings. At Koala Insulation of Greater Ann Arbor, we install both types and can help you choose the right solution for your home. Whether you need batt for a new build or blown-in for an attic upgrade, our team delivers professional installation and high-quality materials that stand the test of time. Call us today at (734) 519-0700 or visit our website for a free estimate.