Is Loose fill insulation still used?
With an attic, this type of insulation is just one option along with the other popular alternatives, fiberglass batts or blown-in fiberglass. But with enclosed walls, blowing in loose-fill cellulose insulation is still by far the most practical and cost-effective method.
Is Loose fill cellulose insulation safe?
This is because it is treated with borax, boric acid, and/or ammonium sulfate (all of which are considered non-toxic in this application). In fact, cellulose insulation has a Class 1 Fire Rating. It is completely safe to use it around contemporary light fixtures and/or recessed cans.
What is a type of loose fill insulation?
The most common types of materials used for loose-fill insulation include cellulose, fiberglass, and mineral (rock or slag) wool. All of these materials are produced using recycled waste materials.
Why Cellulose insulation is bad?
Cellulose is not readily reusable as an insulation material. Even if it weren’t so messy, given the concerns about fire-retardant chemicals with new cellulose insulation, the acceptability of fire retardants in old cellulose should be highly suspect. In most cases, the material is either landfilled or incinerated.
What are the dangers of cellulose insulation?
Allergens. Blown-in cellulose insulation poses a unique hazard to individuals who are allergic to newspaper ink and chemical fire retardants. Boron chemicals, such as borax and boric acid, further aggravate matters and cause a host of respiratory problems in the elderly and infants.
Is Loose fill insulation fiberglass?
Loose-fill insulation is available in cellulose or fiberglass. Cellulose insulation is made from recycled paper products, such as discarded newsprint, cardboard and paperboard, which is treated for fire resistance. Fiberglass insulation is made from recycled fiberglass, similar to batt insulation.
What is a disadvantage of loose fill insulation?
Disadvantages. Installation costs for cellulose can be higher than for fiberglass. Cellulose insulation creates an enormous amount of dust when it is installed, so a certified breathing mask is absolutely essential. Dry-blown cellulose sags and settles, reducing its R-value over time.