Loose Insulation Materials

Insulating Properties

• Insulation is rated based on how well it insulates, using R-values. The United States Department of Energy recommends that you install insulation with an R-value of 38. Loose fill insulation made from cellulose has an average R-value between 3.2 and 3.8 for each inch of insulation, and usually requires between 10 and 12 inches of insulation to reach the recommended amount. Fiberglass insulation only provides an R-value between 2.2 and 2.7 for each inch of insulation. This type is most efficient if it is between 14 and 17 inches deep. Rock wool insulation has an R-value between 3.0 and 3.3, and works best when it is between 11 and 13 inches deep.

Properties

• Loose fill insulation is made of many small pieces of insulation that are blown into place using a pneumatic blower. This process has the advantage of conforming to pre-existing spaces and filling them completely. Loose fill insulation is especially susceptible to settling, and will lose some of its insulating capacity over time. Cellulose insulation is especially prone to this problem, and can lose up to 20 percent of its insulating capacity.

Uses and Installation

• Loose fill insulation is an effective at insulating most areas of your home. It is most often used in walls and ceilings, although you can also install it underneath the floor with a mesh net to hold it in place. For wall installations, you can prevent the insulation from settling using a spray adhesive mixed in with the insulation.

Considerations

• Loose fill insulation is effective at filling irregular spaces and is ideal for adding insulation behind finished walls. To get the maximum benefit from your insulation, you should plug any air leaks that remain after your insulation is installed. Heating ducts, electrical conduit and junction boxes are common areas where hot or cold air can bypass your insulation. If you decide to use loose cellulose insulation, you can add more of it to adjust for the insulating efficiency it loses to compaction.