Cellulose Insulation
A cellulose product is blown or sprayed into sidewalls, giving superior coverage, reduced air infiltration and higher R-values than commonly used fiberglass. Cellulose insulation mainly comes from recycled newsprint. Tests prove it to be the safest, most energy-efficient, most environmentally-sound insulation available. The University of Colorado has done extensive research on the wet-spray cellulose in walls of buildings.
Over a two-month period, tests showed a building with the cellulose tightened the building 36 percent to 38 percent more than fiberglass. Most significantly, after three weeks of monitoring, the cellulose-insulated building used 26.4 percent less heat than a building insulated with fiberglass. Other advantages include:
- Air infiltration - The density is two to three times greater than similar fiberglass products. Also, the insulation completely fills the cavities of wiring holes and plumbing vents, which fiberglass may or may not cover.
- Fire safety - Cellulose insulation is the only home insulation product manufactured under Consumer Product Safety Commission performance criteria mandating fire safety standards.
- Moisture control - Cellulose fibers have a natural ability to handle moisture. Vapor barriers do not need to be used.
- Sound control - It is an excellent acoustical insulation because of its unique porous and interwoven fibers. It reduces sound in both high and low frequency ranges and absorbs noise from street traffic, as well as inside noise like plumbing, shower water and music.
