Cellulose vs. Fiberglass Insulation: Make Your Home More Energy Efficient

 

Which is the better choice when it comes to cellulose vs. fiberglass insulation? Let’s get the negatives out of the way. The federal government tagged fiberglass as a material that quite possibly can be a carcinogen in July of 1994. On the other hand, cellulose insulation requires due care, as when used close to electrical wiring it can produce intense heat, which can cause fire.

 

 

The huge advantage of cellulose vs. fiberglass insulation is the eco-friendly nature of cellulose: 85 percent of it is recycled shredded newspapers, an inexpensive raw material.

 

The remaining 15 percent comes from borate and ammonium sulfate, which reduces its flammability somewhat. The fire usually is very slow to spread if it does catch aflame. The chemicals are known to deter insects and rodents, and when you compare cellulose vs. fiberglass, you will find that cellulose produces far less mold and mildew. The insulation is also easy to manufacture.

 

Fiberglass, on the other hand, is made from spun glass fibers. Glass is melt and spun in a centrifuge that has small holes. Unlike cellulose, fiberglass is non-combustible.

 

Another reason for the cellulose vs. fiberglass insulation debate is that the latter is a major health hazard; not only is it dangerous if the particles get in the lung, but also if it gets on bare skin.

 

Cellulose blow insulation, in comparison, is relatively safe, and it also takes ten times less energy to make than fiberglass. However, there is the downside that blown in cellulose wall cavity insulation requires a special machine for installation, so you can’t do it as a DIY project. Goggles and respirators must be worn during the installation, since cellulose dust is very fine.

 

Cellulose insulation is covered by the most comprehensive legal and voluntary standards of any insulation material. In the end, the choice is clear: cellulose is best for the environment and for your long-term health.