You must consider many things before choosing insulation for your home. One of the most important decisions you have to make regards the type of insulation you choose to go with. There are different materials and types of insulation available – such as batt insulation, blown-in insulation, and rolls – so you must consider their respective attributes and R values before making an informed decision. Attic Insulation Labs can provide you with information on different types of insulation that may suit your home, and can answer the blown-in vs. batt insulation question for you!
Blankets (Batts or Rolls)
This type of insulation is commonly called “batts” or “rolls”, and utilizes a flexible blanket-like insulation that is suited for simple and easily accessible areas. Batts and rolls can be used in non-standard areas, but they will have to be cut to size. The “blankets” come in high, medium, and standard-density constructions, being made from rock wool, fiberglass, and other similar insulating materials. In summary, batt insulation can be easily fitted to appropriate areas, but will be hard to fit in unusual or hard-to-access spaces.
Blown-in Insulation
As the name suggests, blown-in insulation is a type of loose-fill insulation that is literally “blown in” to a wall cavity. Blown-in insulation is often made of recycled materials, including loose-fill fiberglass (made of 75% recycled materials) and cellulose, which consists of recycled newspaper. Cellulose tends to be cheaper than the fiberglass option, and comes with a superior R-value, meaning it keeps heat in better. Blown-in insulation requires a specialized “blowing machine” for installation, which allows Attic Insulation Labs to efficiently blow the insulation into your desired area with ease.
When it comes to blown-in vs. batt insulation, it really depends on your needs. Batt insulation is good for simple spaces with standard designs, whereas blown-in insulation is ideal for trickier spaces and irregularly-shaped walls, for example.
The R-value of Different Types of Insulation
When looking at different types of insulation (such as rolls, batts, and blown-in insulation) it is essential to assess their R-values, as this determines how efficiently they will actually keep heat in your home. Though the manufacturers will list R-values on their insulation products, the Department of Energy says that R-values usually range between 2.9 – 3.8 per inch of thickness for standard-density fiberglass batt insulation, and between 3.7 – 4.3 for high-density fiberglass batts. When it comes to blown-in insulation, R-values should be 2.2 – 2.7 per inch for fiberglass and 3.2 – 3.8 for cellulose.
Got a question about blown-in vs. batt insulation? Contact Attic Insulation Labs Today.
