Many homeowners choose to install Houston blown in insulation in their attics because it’s the quickest, most straightforward way to improve energy efficiency. The installation cost may be higher than other forms of insulation, but the energy savings can quickly pay for the costs over the next two to four years. Another benefit of blown in insulation is that it prevents noise from traveling through your walls, acting as a sound buffer. For this reason, it’s the best choice for a major remodeling project.
There are three types of blown in insulation: cellulose, rock wool, and loose-fill fiberglass. The minimum recommended R-value for these materials varies by geographic region, and experts recommend that you choose insulation with a high R-value, such as R-38. If you’re considering installing blown in insulation in your attic, check the minimum thickness of the material, which is typically about 10 inches. You should also pay attention to the thermal resistance, as the higher the R-value, the more effective it will be at keeping your home warm.
Blown in cellulose is also safe for use around contemporary light fixtures, such as recessed cans. Antique light fixtures and wiring that aren’t up to date may require other forms of insulation. Blown in cellulose doesn’t cost much more than fiberglass, and its cost is comparable to that of blown in fiberglass. Depending on where you want to place the insulation, you can also opt to add it on top of existing fiberglass batts.
Another type of blown-in insulation is made of recycled materials. It is composed of 80% recycled materials and contains little to no chemicals or synthetic processes. The only downside to this type of insulation is that it can settle, reducing the R-value. If you don’t want to deal with the discomfort of settling, opt for fiberglass instead. It’s not only environmentally friendly, but it’s also great for comfort. You won’t have to worry about energy bills again once you install blown-in insulation in your home!
To begin with, you’ll need to measure the depth of your existing insulation. For this purpose, you’ll need a flashlight, a tape measure, and a ruler. Make sure to check the attic’s access point before beginning the insulation process. You should always remember to check the attic for safety and to prevent any accidental injury. Make sure you’re using proper safety gear, especially eyewear and gloves. Blow-in insulation can be dangerous, so be sure to use safety gear. You could easily lose your balance and damage your drywall ceiling. If you’re doing this on your own, you’ll want to use a piece of plywood as a stable surface for yourself.
Compared to spray foam, blown-in cellulose is much safer. If you’re using fiberglass, it’s best to hire a professional. Compared to fiberglass, it’s also cheaper. If you can’t find a contractor to install it, consider fiberglass. However, you can’t get much cheaper insulation than fiberglass. Aside from being safer, blown-in cellulose is also less expensive than spray foam.
Blowing-in insulation costs between $0.35 and $1.70 per square foot (depending on the amount of insulation you choose), so if you’re not in a hurry, you can save a lot of money by doing it yourself. A professional blow-in contractor will charge you approximately $1,500 to $2,250 for a 1,200-square-foot attic. The contractor’s fee may include the cost of equipment and labor.
When installing blown-in insulation, make sure you use it on attics and basements. The right type can reduce your energy bills by up to 20%. The added bonus is that it’s environmentally friendly! You won’t need to worry about having to pay high energy bills anymore! And, if you have a new furnace or boiler, blown-in insulation could be an excellent choice. While it might seem expensive, it’s worth considering the long-term savings it can provide.
Other types of blown-in insulation may cost more than loose-fill fiberglass. Fiberglass is cheaper, but it still tends to be highly flammable. As a result, cellulose isn’t a good choice if you live in a fire-prone area. You’ll have to spend around $15 per square foot for the material, but the resulting thermal barrier is better. But there are still downsides.
When choosing blown-in insulation for your home, make sure you choose the right contractor. The installation process can take just a few hours and only requires two contractors. The insulation is blown through a long flexible hose. After the insulation has been installed, a small plug is added that matches the color of the siding. And because the material is not compressed, it can’t settle and can be unsightly. You’ll also have less work than with blown-in insulation and it’s not necessary to install retaining membranes.