BIRMINGHAM Blog

Thermal Insulation: Comparing Batt and Blown-In Insulation

Insulation is a common topic among homeowners. They want to know what renovations they should consider to improve their home's comfort and energy efficiency and curp appeal. There are two ways to insulate your home: a batt insulation or blown-in insulation.

Both methods have their pros and cons. This guide will show you how they compare in terms of sound blocking, health concerns, cost, and performance.

Batt Insulation

Batt insulation, also known as blank insulation, is a more affordable option, but it can be less effective than blown-in insulation. It is also more likely to develop mold, which can trigger allergies and breathing problems.

The installation process of batt insulation is a bit more complicated, but you don't need any special equipment.

When properly installed, batt insulation can reduce energy consumption by 20 percent compared to an uninsulated home. However, it does not offer the same level of soundproofing as other types of insulation. As a result, it may be best for homes that do not receive much noise from outside sources such as traffic or neighbors.

Blown-In Insulation

Blown-in insulation is made up of cellulose or fiberglass fibers that are blown into your home's walls and attic using an industrial vacuum system. It is an excellent option for reducing energy consumption and insulating against heat loss. It also offers a high level of soundproofing, which makes it ideal for homes that receive a lot of noise from outside sources such as traffic or neighbors.

While blown-in insulation is a great option for insulating your home, it does require a professional installation. This kind of insulation is ideal for older homes that have been retrofitted with new walls and attics, as well as newer homes that need to be insulated for energy efficiency purposes.

What Materials Are Used for Insulations

Several different types of insulation are available in the market today, each offering its own benefits and drawbacks. While you can choose from more than one material for insulating your home, it's best to consult with an expert before making any decisions.

The most commonly used materials for batt insulation and blown-in insulations are:

• Cellulose: This is an organic material made from recycled newspapers, and it's also eco-friendly. The material is shredded, then blown into the walls or attic to provide thermal resistance. It's available in three densities: light, medium, and heavy. The lighter the density, the more effective it will be at insulating your home. However, it's also more expensive to purchase than other types of insulation materials.
   
• Fiberglass: Made from glass fibers spun together with a resin solution and then pressed into sheets or shredded, this type of insulation is known for its ability to resist moisture penetration while resisting fire damage. R-Value is the measurement of how well a material resists heat flow. The higher the R-value, the better it insulates and reflects heat. Most building codes require an R-value of at least 15 for walls and 12 for ceilings, but you can go higher if you want to save on energy costs.

Conclusion 

Insulation is a crucial component of any home, and it can also be one of the most cost-effective ways to improve comfort, energy efficiency, and safety. Whether you're considering new insulation for your home or looking to update your existing system, there are several factors that will affect which type of insulation is best for you: how much money you want to spend, the level of noise control desired, potential health concerns with each option, and so on.

If you need insulation contractors in Birmingham, AL, contact Koala Insulation Birmingham. We  provide a free insulation evaluation for all our services! We'd be happy to help you find the right insulation solution for your home.