Insulation comes in several forms to keep homes comfortable and energy-friendly, including fiberglass batts and cellulose. The latter material is a type of paper and wood product with a consistency similar to down feathers. Learn more about the insulating material here to determine if it’s best for your home. 

How It Works

Often made with recycled materials, such as newspaper, cellulose undergoes flame retardant treatment with borax, boric acid, or ammonium before it's ready for use. The dense, clumpy product is usually blown into wall cavities, attic floors, and other spaces using a sprayer machine with a hose attached. Known as loose fill insulation, it is often applied to closed walls. A temporary hole is made in the wall to accommodate the blower nozzle, and the product is blown into the cavity. The material settles over time and can be used over existing insulating materials.

Damp cellulose is often used for open spaces, such as between attic joists in a new construction project. The added moisture helps the material stick. 

Advantages 

Cellulose is popular because it is relatively affordable with a high R-value, which is usually between R-3.1 and R-3.8 per inch. R-value refers to a product’s thermal resistance, or ability to prevent heat from flowing through it. Higher numbers mean the product avoids heat losses and gains that affect interior comfort and energy efficiency. Since cellulose fills nooks and crannies within wall cavities, it offers maximum thermal resistance. 

The insulating material also helps prevent insect infestations since it is often treated with borates. In addition to reducing your home’s fire risk, borax and similar products are toxic to many pests, including ants, mites, and cockroaches. Additionally, cellulose is environmentally friendly, not only because it's made of recycled materials, but because it does not include chemicals that affect indoor air quality. 

For top-quality cellulose, choose Marchant Building Center. The local building supply company provides residents of Mountain Home, AR, with a wide range of durable products, while also offering insulation installation services. Call (870) 425-3168 with product questions or browse their selection online.