When installing insulation in your home, there are several important decisions to make. These decisions will determine how effective the insulation will be in keeping your home comfortable throughout the year. One of the most important things that you’ll need to do is decide which of the different types of insulation is appropriate. The most common options are blown-in insulation, batts, and rolls. Although professional contractors like Attic Guys will aid you in making this decision, we also feel that it is important for you to understand these insulation types and what makes them different. Whether the insulation is for a commercial building or your home, knowing the differences in blown-in insulation vs. batts and rolled insulation is crucial to determining which best meets your particular needs.
Blankets (Batts)
Blankets are a type of insulation that is most commonly referred to as rolls or batts. This is flexible insulation that is meant for use in areas with standard spacing and relatively easy access. The standard spacing refers to the spacing of joists and wall studs, for which the rolls and batts are made wide enough to match. Batts and rolls may also be used in non-standard spaces; however, they will require cutting to fit properly. They are available in standard, medium, and high density and are made of fiberglass, rock wool, and other mineral or natural fibers. Some blankets come with a vapor barrier in the form of a foil or paper facing. When comparing blown insulation vs. rolled and batts, it is important to note that no special equipment is necessary with blanket-type insulation, but it is often difficult to fit in non-standard or irregularly shaped areas.
Blown-In Insulation
The first difference in blown-in vs. batt insulation is that it is a form of loose-fill insulation as opposed to a flexible blanket. It is sold in bags and made of materials that are of varying degrees of recycled. This includes loose-fill fiberglass, which is made of 30 percent glass, mineral wool, which is 75 percent recycled content, and cellulose, which is made of recycled newspapers. Of these, cellulose has a better R-rating and is not as expensive as fiberglass. When comparing blown insulation vs. rolled and batts, you’ll want to make notice of the fact that it requires the use of a blowing machine. As expert installers of insulation, we are experienced with handling this machine and can install blown-in insulation quickly and efficiently. Because it is blown into a space, it is ideal for spaces that are irregular in shape and size and in areas that have low ceilings or may otherwise be difficult to access or move around in due to obstacles or obstructions.
The Difference in R-Values
When comparing blown-in insulation vs. batts, you must also examine the R-values. While the manufacturer will state the actual R-value of the insulation that you use, according to the Department of Energy, you can expect an R-value range between 2.9 and 3.8 per inch of thickness for standard fiberglass batts and between 3.7 and 4.3 for high-performance fiberglass batts. With blown-in insulation, you can expect an R-value of 2.2 to 2.7 per inch for fiberglass and between 3.2 and 3.8 per inch of cellulose. If you have questions about blown-in vs. batt insulation or about insulation removal and/or installation for your home or building, we’re here to help. Contact us either by filling out our online form or by calling us for a free estimate today!
