The best insulation option that every home needs should not only be durable and comfortable but also inexpensive. A perfect thermal solution for a green home is cellulose insulation. It uses the least amount of energy in its manufacture when compared to other insulation material and there are no toxic materials used in its manufacture or installation.
A Thermal Solution:
Cellulose insulation is a green, non-toxic and efficient alternative to fiberglass. This form of insulation is also relatively affordable compared to its counterparts. The material used is made of close to 80% used recycled newsprint, making it the insulation material with the highest recycled content. Cellulose insulation is chemically treated with non-toxic compounds. These compounds make the cellulose fire-resistant and protect it against insects and mold as well. In spite of the fact that cellulose is made of paper it is still regarded as safe. This is mainly due to the fact that the cellulose is denser leaving no room for oxygen to penetrate. As a result of this, fire can be easily contained. The amount of air leakage can also be easily controlled through cellulose insulation. The structure of cellulose makes it resistant to the conduction of heat.
Types of Cellulose Insulation:
There are two basic types of Cellulose insulation:
Blown Cellulose: It is mainly made of dry fiber and mostly is used in attics and enclosed spaces. It is typically used in these spaces as the existing wall finishes need not be removed. It also allows deep coverage with minimum effort involved.
Sprayed Cellulose: Open wall cavities can be easily filled with sprayed cellulose especially in the case of a new construction. It is sprayed directly into the cavity where it stays in a solid and airtight state. The only difference between blown and sprayed cellulose is that water is used to dampen sprayed cellulose. The cellulose needs to be applied carefully else it could be dangerous and unproductive. When not applied with care, it can lead to mildew, mold and rot. The sprayed cellulose becomes stiff after it has been left open for at least 2 days. It is slightly more expensive than fiberglass but more eco-friendly. It is also energy-efficient and has many other superior qualities.
Making the Right Choice:
All insulation systems are competitively priced. It is advisable to explore as many options as possible to reach the right decision. Low dust cellulose is an option for those with dust allergies to avoid the dust created while applying cellulose insulation on the walls. Stabilized cellulose is best suited for sloped roofs since the use of water reduces the quantity of cellulose used and hence the weight of the product on the ceiling.
The quality of the insulation depends on the installation process. Hence, a high quality should always be demanded in terms of material and installation.
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