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Understanding Wall Insulation- Increased Comfort and Decreased Energy Bills

Comparing Blown Fiberglass Insulation and Traditional Fiberglass Batt Insulation

When it comes to insulating your home, the choice of insulation material is crucial for achieving energy efficiency, comfort, and cost-effectiveness. Two popular types of fiberglass insulation—blown fiberglass and traditional fiberglass batt—offer distinct advantages and are suited for different applications. This blog post will compare blown fiberglass insulation with traditional fiberglass batt insulation, examining their differences in installation, performance, cost, and environmental impact to help you make an informed decision for your home.  At Aurora Homes, we think informed people make wise decisions, so we like to provide you with information that helps you be more informed.




1. Installation Process

Blown Fiberglass Insulation:

Blown fiberglass insulation is installed using a specialized blowing machine that sprays loose fiberglass fibers into wall cavities, attics, and other hard-to-reach areas. This method allows the insulation to fill gaps and crevices thoroughly, creating a more seamless and continuous blanket of insulation. The installation process is relatively quick and can be performed by professionals who ensure even distribution and proper coverage.

Traditional Fiberglass Batt Insulation:

Traditional fiberglass batt insulation comes in pre-cut panels or rolls that are fitted between the studs, joists, and rafters of a building. The batts are typically available in various thicknesses and widths to match standard construction dimensions. Installation involves measuring, cutting, and fitting the batts into place, which can be time-consuming and labor-intensive. Achieving perfect fit and avoiding gaps or compression can even be challenging for professional insulation installers.

Verdict:

Blown fiberglass insulation offers a more flexible and efficient installation process, especially for irregularly shaped spaces and hard-to-reach areas. Traditional fiberglass batt insulation requires careful fitting and is more labor-intensive, which can result in gaps and reduced effectiveness if not installed correctly.

2. Thermal Performance and R-Value

Blown Fiberglass Insulation:

Blown fiberglass insulation has an excellent R-value (a measure of thermal resistance), typically ranging from R-2.2 to R-4.3 per inch, depending on the density and specific product used. The ability to fill gaps and cover irregular surfaces helps minimize thermal bridging (the transfer of heat through materials with higher conductivity) and enhances overall thermal performance. This results in better energy efficiency and reduced heating and cooling costs.

Traditional Fiberglass Batt Insulation:

Fiberglass batt insulation also offers good thermal performance, with R-values typically ranging from R-2.9 to R-3.8 per inch. The performance of batts can be compromised by gaps, compression, and poor installation, which can lead to thermal bridging and reduced effectiveness. When installed correctly, fiberglass batts provide reliable insulation for standard wall, floor, and ceiling applications.

Verdict:

Blown fiberglass insulation generally provides superior thermal performance due to its ability to fill gaps and cover irregularities, resulting in a more continuous and effective thermal barrier. Traditional fiberglass batts offer good performance when properly installed but are more susceptible to installation errors.  Practically speaking, a 2x6 wall that is insulated with blown fiberglass is rated at R-23.  This is the wall insulation used by Aurora Homes.  A 2x6 wall that is insulated with traditional batt insulation is rated at R-19.  This means that blown fiberglass can be over 20% more effective.  (In simple terms, “R-value” is the ability for a substance to resist heat transfer from one area to another.  When it comes to R-value, more is better.)

3. Air Sealing and Moisture Control

Blown Fiberglass Insulation:

Blown fiberglass insulation, when installed correctly, can help reduce air infiltration by filling small gaps and crevices that may be missed with batt insulation. However, it is not an air barrier on its own and should be used in conjunction with proper air sealing techniques. Blown fiberglass is also non-hygroscopic, meaning it does not absorb moisture, which helps prevent mold growth and moisture-related issues.

Traditional Fiberglass Batt Insulation:

Fiberglass batt insulation does not inherently provide air sealing and is often used in conjunction with vapor barriers and air sealing materials. If not installed properly, batts can leave gaps that allow air infiltration, reducing the overall effectiveness of the insulation. Like blown fiberglass, batt insulation is also resistant to moisture absorption.

Verdict:

Blown fiberglass insulation used by Aurora Homes has an measureable edge in reducing air infiltration due to its ability to fill gaps and crevices more effectively. However, neither type of insulation should be relied upon solely for air sealing; additional air barriers and sealing techniques are necessary for optimal performance.

4. Cost and Installation Time

Blown Fiberglass Insulation:

The cost of blown fiberglass insulation can vary based on factors such as the size of the area to be insulated, the type of blown fiberglass used, and labor costs. Blown fiberglass costs more than traditional fiberglass batts. Professional installation is typically required, adding to the overall cost.

Traditional Fiberglass Batt Insulation:

Fiberglass batt insulation is generally less expensive than blown fiberglass in terms of material costs. It is widely available and can be installed by homeowners with the necessary skills, tools, and safety precautions, making it a cost-effective option for DIY projects. However, professional installation is recommended to ensure proper fit and performance, which can increase labor costs.

Verdict:

Traditional fiberglass batt insulation tends to be more cost-effective in terms of material cost. Blown fiberglass insulation, while more expensive, offers more consistent installation, which leads to better performance of the insulation in the home.

5. Environmental Impact

Blown Fiberglass Insulation:

Blown fiberglass insulation is often made from recycled glass and sand, making it an environmentally friendly option. The manufacturing process consumes less energy compared to other insulation materials, and the product itself can contribute to better energy efficiency in homes, reducing overall energy consumption and greenhouse gas emissions.

Traditional Fiberglass Batt Insulation:

Fiberglass batt insulation is also made from recycled materials, including glass, and has a relatively low environmental impact compared to other insulation options. The energy savings achieved through effective insulation help reduce the carbon footprint of homes, contributing to long-term environmental benefits.

Verdict:

Both blown fiberglass insulation and traditional fiberglass batt insulation have positive environmental attributes, including the use of recycled materials and contributions to energy efficiency. The choice between the two does not significantly impact their environmental benefits.

Conclusion

When comparing blown fiberglass insulation and traditional fiberglass batt insulation, it is clear that each has its own strengths and applications. Here is a summary to help you decide which type of insulation might be best for your needs:

Installation Process: Blown fiberglass insulation offers a more flexible and efficient installation process, especially for irregularly shaped spaces and hard-to-reach areas. Traditional fiberglass batt insulation requires careful fitting and is more labor-intensive.

Thermal Performance: Blown fiberglass insulation provides far superior thermal performance due to its ability to fill gaps and cover irregularities. Traditional fiberglass batts offer good performance when properly installed but are more susceptible to installation errors.

Air Sealing and Moisture Control: Blown fiberglass insulation has an edge in reducing air infiltration but should be used with additional air sealing techniques. Both types are resistant to moisture absorption.

Cost and Installation Time: Traditional fiberglass batt insulation is more cost-effective in terms of material costs. Blown fiberglass insulation may be more expensive but a more consistent product and performance.

Environmental Impact: Both blown fiberglass insulation and traditional fiberglass batt insulation have positive environmental attributes, including the use of recycled materials and contributions to energy efficiency.

Ultimately, the choice between blown fiberglass insulation and traditional fiberglass batt insulation depends on your specific needs, budget, and the particular characteristics of your home. By understanding the differences and benefits of each type, you can make an informed decision that enhances the comfort, energy efficiency, and value of your home.

At Aurora Homes, all of our homes use blown fiberglass in the exterior walls.  This leads to years of energy savings and increased comfort for the people who build with Aurora Homes.

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