Cellulose Insulation In Attic Ceiling

In spite of all their benefits neither fiberglass nor cellulose insulation provides an adequate air seal.

Cellulose insulation in attic ceiling.

Cellulose insulation is usually a loose fill insulation. The types of insulation that were most commonly made with asbestos are loose fill also called blown in insulation. Cellulose insulation is made from recycled paper products. Loose fill cellulose is relatively inexpensive yet still has an r value of about 3 5 per inch of thickness compared to fiberglass r value between r3 to r4 per inch.

Or whole house fans. Blown in cellulose has a higher r rating and is less expensive than either blown insulation like fiberglass attic insulation or fiberglass batts. When walls are already finished injecting loose fill cellulose insulation is one of the few ways of adding. Pick up the blower and insulation.

Foam insulation may be made from polystyrene polyisocyanurate or polyurethane which are all types of plastic. For example cathedral ceilings built with 2x12 rafters have space for standard 10 inch batts r 30 and ventilation. Manufacturers also add borate for fire and insect resistance. Loose fill cellulose insulation can settle around and conform to most of the obstructions found in walls and attics.

Cathedral ceilings must provide space between the roof deck and home s ceiling for adequate insulation and ventilation. Or attic staircase hatches. Given that both insulators are equal in r value the difference in thermal resistance relies heavily on proper installation and air sealing. This can prove advantageous at reducing the overall weight of the product on the ceiling drywall helping prevent possible sag.

Cellulose blown in ceiling insulation is a good choice for diyers. Sure there s insulation in your attic and crawlspace. The r value of cellulose insulation ranges from 3 6 3 8 per inch and spray foam insulation ranges from 3 5 3 7 per inch of insulation. Lighter in weight than cellulose or mineral wool but it settles more than those materials so you ve got to put in a thicker layer to get the protection you need.

If your attic or wall insulation is in batt or blanket form whether it s fiberglass cellulose or another material you generally don t have to be concerned about asbestos. You can achieve better thermal performance in your attic by adding an additional layer of insulation. Recycled glass or sand that s melted and spun into fibers. It is applied with a very small amount of water to activate an adhesive of some kind.

Loose fill insulation comes in a variety of materials. This reduces settling and decreases the amount of cellulose needed. But there s probably nothing to prevent air from moving past plumbing air duct and electrical penetrations. Stabilized cellulose is used most often in attic roof insulation.