Cellulose insulation has been around forever and is the type still found in many homes today. It can be installed as blown-in or loose-fill, and many homeowners choose it because of its affordability when building or renovating a home. Our Austin insulation contractors do install cellulose, however we want you to know that it does have its problems. You may want to consider spray foam instead after learning about some of the most common issues below.
It cannot get wet! Because of its ability to absorb up to 130% water by weight, cellulose insulation must remain dry. If there are any leaks in your home or condensation occurs, cellulose will absorb moisture and then settle and deteriorate once it dries.
Your home will be susceptible to air movement due to settling. Even when kept dry, cellulose insulation can settle by as much as 20%. What does this mean? There may eventually be gaps, referred to as “bridging.” When there are gaps in your insulation, it’s far less efficient and won’t keep your home as comfortable as it should be. Higher energy bills are often a result as well.
It isn’t a good choice for insulating the attic floor. Why? Loose-fill cellulose insulation has a tendency to drift, especially when vents are present. Most attics have vents, and the air flow will shift the insulation around, meaning there will be spaces in your attic that lack insulation. Mold spores, bacteria and pollen can also be problematic, as these things come in with outdoor air and tend to cling to the insulation.
Cellulose insulation can create a huge mess. No matter how careful you are, cellulose insulation that’s densely packed can get everywhere. Electrical sockets or any other openings in the wall allow the insulation to spill out – and if you have a ducted furnace system it will recirculate dust through your home. Not only does it create a mess, you now have less insulation in the walls because some of it has spilled out. A real headache!
All around, there are issues with cellulose insulation that just cannot be avoided. Although it has improved over the years, it is still very hard to work with and will prove to be a real pain in the you-know-what should you decide a home renovation is in order that requires any new wiring or other work involving penetration to the walls.
Why risk it? With so many other options that are far superior, we encourage you to reconsider if you’re thinking of cellulose insulation. Our Austin spray foam insulation experts will work with you to develop the best solution for your needs. Give HabiShield a call today!