What is Blown In Insulation Made Out Of?

When you think of blown in insulation, there are two main types to consider: cellulose and fibreglass. These are the two most popular types of blown in insulation for homeowners.

Each one inevitably has its own set of pros and cons. Therefore, if you are wondering what blown in insulation is made out of, we have to consider both cellulose and fibreglass in turn…

Cellulose Insulation

Cellulose is a plant based fibre. Cellulose is the major component in the rigid cell walls in plants. Cellulose is a linear polysaccharide polymer with glucose monosaccharide units.

Cellulose is only available as blown in material. Many builders consider it the most efficient and long-lasting material you can use. But that is because cellulose comes with a lifetime warranty.

In terms of insulation, cellulose offers an R-value of 30 with 8.1 inches of thickness. That is somewhere close of 3.2 per inch. To achieve the same performance, you need 12 inches of fibreglass. And cellulose has no hazard and warning labels; something you definitely find on fibreglass.

As for what is blown in insulation made out of, cellulose is made from reconstituted wood fiber product. This includes: newspaper, cardboard, and other wood related products.

And while these materials look flammable on first glance, cellulose is non-flammable. The reason is because cellulose is treated with borate, which makes it permanently non-flammable.

Fibreglass Insulation

Fiberglass, unlike cellulose, is available in two forms. The first one is batting (rolled) and the second is blown in material. Usually, owners opt for rolled insulation. However, blown fiberglass insulation is better.

If you are wondering what blown in insulation is made out of, fiberglass is a fiber-reinforced plastic. The reinforcement is usually made of glass fiber, randomly arranged, and then flattened into a sheet.

Since it is made out of glass fiber, fiberglass contains fibers that are very small, sharp, and rigid. On top of that, fiberglass comes with a warning label for upper respiratory irritation and similar illnesses.

Fiberglass does not come with a lifetime warranty. And unlike blown cellulose, blown fiberglass is known for settling and packing after it’s installed. Blown fiberglass can fluff the material up, and the product settles over time.

In terms of R-value, fibreglass carries an R-value of around 2.5-2.7 per inch.

Unlike other insulation types, spray foam is air-impermeable, which makes it a great air, moisture, and noise barrier. Here are some of the main benefits of spray foam insulation

Why Opt for Spray Foam Instead?

With all of the pros and cons of fibreglass and cellulose, the question is whether there’s a third, and better option.

As in many cases, there is always something better. In the case of insulation, the ‘something better’ you’re seeking is spray foam.

No, spray foam is not blown in insulation. There is no need of asking the question what is blown in insulation made out of with spray foam.

Spray polyurethane foam is made by mixing and reacting chemicals to create foam. The reacting materials react quickly, and they expand on contact, creating foam that insulates and air-seals your walls.

Unlike other insulation types, spray foam is air-impermeable, which makes it a great air, moisture, and noise barrier. Here are some of the main benefits of spray foam insulation:

• Provides an air-tight seal to all cracks, nooks and crannies.
• Spray foam does not allow moisture to penetrate into your walls, protecting your home from mould
• Spray foam is also a fantastic noise barrier. By sealing your house, spray foam does not allow outside noise to compromise your comfort
• Reduces energy bills by 50%.
• Spray foam is an eco-friendly and long-lasting material.  It can easily last for more than 20 years.

Yes, the cost of spray foam is higher, when compared to other insulation materials. However, in the long run, spray foam is a far more cost-effective solution. Simply call 0800 1700 636, or click the button below to get started today!