Cellulose Attic Insulation: Three Myths Exposed and Debunked for Good

 

Cellulose attic insulation is low-thermal-conductivity material used to separate the internal climate and sounds of a building from the external. It is the oldest building insulation material. The market for cellulose increased following the oil embargo of 1973-1974, and it has continued to rise over the years. Here we debunk three of the myths that have arisen as cellulose insulation rises in popularity:

 

 

FACT: The boric acid added to cellulose insulation in fact suppresses the growth of mold, and it is toxic to insects and small rodents. Boron compounds are one of the main ingredients, along with ground newspapers. Your attic and roofing insulation can also be made from other recycled paper such as magazines and cardboard boxes. Manufacturers grind the paper into a fine powder, and the installers blow insulation from your attic down through the walls of your home.

 

 

FACT: This is nonsense. If you can read the newspaper without suffering, then you will be fine with cellulose in your home. Cellulose insulation is one of the greenest insulation options, since it is made from recycled newspapers, which in turn were made from plant materials. This type of insulation takes less energy to make than other insulation materials.

 

 

FACT: All blown insulation settles over time, and manufacturers factor settling into the insulation formulas. Blown in cellulose outperforms blanket insulation options like fiberglass, especially since it can be blown around penetrations, framing materials, light fixtures and obstructions. So if you’re thinking about building a new home or adding insulation to your attic, don’t let the myths hold you back: cellulose is an outstanding choice.