CELLULOSE INSULATION
About Cellulose Insulation
The first is loose fill while the second is blown in method. For loose fill, the dry cellulose is blown into the crack or gap with a machine. This is generally done when insulation is being installed after the construction process is complete. And is ideal for insulating attics, walls, or floors. Contrarily, for new projects, the cellulose is damp sprayed. Here water is added near the tip of the nozzle which helps the cellulose stick to the surface. This improves insulating ability, enhances heat retention, and increases noise control.
Cellulose insulation is formed using a huge quantity of recycled products. Up to 80% of the product consists of recycled paper and denim. These raw materials are mixed with boric acid which makes the final product flame retardant.
Pros
- Uses recycled base materials
- More environmentally friendly than other types of insulation
- No greenhouse gases emitted or used as a propellant
- Powder fits into even the smallest cavities
- Extremely cheap
- Fire-resistant
- Mold-resistant
- Insect-resistant
Cons
- Popular use of cellulose insulation in the 70s resulted in holes in walls after the product compressed
- Not an effective form of insulation, minimal energy losses preserved
- Reacts badly when wet because of water-absorbent quality
- Insulation ruined after water absorption, no longer remains fire retardant
- Cellulose particles enter the air and are circulated using duct systems which ruins the quality of air
- If there are openings left after the cellulose is packed into the cavity it will spill outwards
- Heavyweight makes it unsuitable for insulating roofs or slopes
