Fiberglass vs. Cellulose Blown-In Insulation

Having the right insulation is essential for a comfortable home. Your residential insulation contractor most likely works with a variety of products to achieve this goal, including fiberglass and cellulose blown-in insulation. Here's what you need to know about these two products to determine which one is best for your home. 

Fiberglass Insulation

This product is composed of sand and recycled materials and is available in pre-cut batts or rolls, as well as loose material that can be blown into place. Fiberglass is popular among homeowners because it's affordable, quick and easy to install, and long-lasting. 

Fiberglass is a highly effective form of thermal insulation that resists mold and mildew growth while also being non-flammable. This material is available in a wide range of R-values, or resistance to conductive heat flow, offering suitable options for every part of the home. 

Cellulose Blown-In Insulation

This product is generally composed of recycled newspaper, cardboard, and magazines, making it an environmentally friendly choice. Since it doesn't have any sand, it's unlikely to leave behind any particles that can cause skin irritation for installers and homeowners. 

Cellulose blown-in insulation comes in various R-values, so it offers flexible control over your home's temperature. The material fits into small nooks and crannies for a more effective barrier against thermal exchange and excess noise. Cellulose also resists insects and fire damage and experiences little degradation over time. However, the material is not waterproof and may not be the right option if your roofing system tends to leak during rainstorms.