Is blown in insulation better than spray foam?
Between spray foam and blown-in cellulose, which is better? Both spray foam and blown-in cellulose insulation have their advantages. Spray foam has a higher R-value, so it’s the more effective insulator. But cellulose is better at insulating street noise.
What type of insulation is best for attics?
Fiberglass, cotton, and mineral wool can all work as loose-fill insulation material, but the far and away top choice for blown-in insulation is fiberglass. Contrary to batts insulation, blown-in fiberglass insulation is perfect for filling in tight voids around wiring, pipes, or any area with awkward framing.
Is spray foaming your attic a good idea?
That’s because open-cell spray foam can transmit air and moisture. Closed-cell spray foam is a better choice for keeping subfloor moisture at optimal levels, while open-cell spray foam is a better choice for walls and attics, because it allows homes to “breathe,” Yates said.
Is cellulose insulation good for attics?
Since cellulose is blown in, it fills all the gaps, crevices, nooks and crannies in your attic, unlike batts that can leave gaps. Compared to fiberglass, cellulose is a superb air-blocker. Air moving through a vented attic deposits dirt and dust into fiberglass batts; this is called wind-washing.
Why do lenders not like spray foam insulation?
So why is it a problem for mortgage lenders? By sealing the roof space with this material, air circulation can be restricted to the roof and timbers. This can lead to condensation, which in turn can eventually lead to the rotting of the wooden roof supports.
What are the disadvantages of cellulose insulation?
Cons of Cellulose Insulation
It generates a lot of dust during installation. It is heat-resistant and has a high R-value. Cellulose insulation is prone to sagging and settling. It is heavily treated with fire-retardant chemicals.
What are the problems with spray foam insulation?
The poor application of spray foam insulation by an untrained or unlicensed contractor can lead to several problems, according to Fine Home Building. Poor application includes off-ratio spraying of the material, bad odors, and a lack of adhesion. A permanent odor can also be created when this happens.
Can you have too much insulation in your attic?
It’s possible to over-insulate an attic as too much will cause moisture buildup and eventually result in mold. Eventually, adding more insulation leads to diminishing returns in trapping heat as well.
What are the disadvantages of spray foam insulation?
List of the Cons of Spray Foam Insulation
- Spray foam insulation does not always fill every possible cavity.
- Spray foam insulation might encourage water damage for some homeowners.
- Spray foam insulation can sometimes shrink.
- Spray foam insulation requires a lot of experience to get it right.
Do mice like cellulose insulation?
Cellulose insulation is a deterrent for mice and other types of pests. Pests prefer solid materials where they can burrow and nest. The dry composition of the insulation makes it difficult for most pests and mice to survive.
Does spray foam devalue your house?
SPF should never be used in older buildings
In fact, according to Heritage House, they have seen entire roofs rotted and unrecoverable after SPF has been used. They state that by using SPF in your roof, ‘…you will devalue your home by the amount that a new roof will cost, and more. ‘ And we agree.
Will cellulose insulation mold?
Mold growth sets in: Thanks to its chemical treatment, mold doesn’t grow on cellulose insulation. However, water-soaked fibers sit right against wood studs and drywall, which are susceptible to mold growth.
Can spray foam rot your roof?
Studies show that open-cell spray foam is risky in colder climates. Indoor moisture diffuses through the foam and comes in contact with the cold roof sheathing. The spray foam traps the moisture against the roof, which results in eventual decay.
What R-value should I have in my attic?
The higher the R-Value, the better the thermal performance of the insulation. The recommended level for most attics is to insulate to R-38 or about 10 to 14 inches, depending on insulation type.
How thick should cellulose insulation be in attic?
about 10 to 14 inches
How deep should cellulose insulation be in my attic? According to Energystar.gov, most attics’ recommended cellulose insulation level is to insulate to R-38 (about 10 to 14 inches).
Can mold grow on spray foam insulation?
As a product, spray foam insulation does not attract mold. And unlike wood or metal, spray foam does not rot, rust or deteriorate. This means that an area properly sprayed with foam insulation will never become a food source or a hospitable environment for a mold colony.
What are the pros and cons of cellulose insulation?
Pros and Cons of Cellulose Insulation
| Pros of Cellulose Insulation | Cons of Cellulose Insulation |
|---|---|
| It is resistant to pests, mold, and mildew. | This material absorbs moisture easily. |
| It is very affordable. | All types of cellulose insulation require a vapor barrier. |
Do termites eat cellulose insulation?
The answer is no—termites do not feed on cellulose insulation, and in fact, this material can actually repel termites. Cellulose insulation doesn’t attract termites. It’s treated with fire-retardant chemicals that insects are not drawn to.
Can you put too much insulation in attic?
Should I remove old attic insulation before adding new?
Expert contractors that specialize in insulation advise that removing old fiberglass insulation is best before installing new cellulose insulation because of possible mildew, mold, or rodent excrement.
Where should you not use spray foam insulation?
When NOT to Use Spray Foam Insulation
- For areas that are too close to electrical boxes:
- For areas too close to ceiling light boxes:
- Open-cell spray foam on your roof:
- For closed-cavity spaces:
- If you have a history of skin, respiratory, or asthma problems:
What is a disadvantage of cellulose insulation?
Will mice nest in cellulose insulation?
Rodents generally are not drawn to cellulose insulation, either. This is because it’s loose and tends to fall in on itself. It’s not ideal for burrowing and building a nest. You can pretty easily install cellulose yourself, but you have to rent a special machine to blow it into the walls of your attic.
Do mice hate cellulose insulation?