Achieving Recommended R-Values with Loose Fill Attic Insulation

If you are planning to build or renovate a home, loose fill attic insulation is one of the insulation options you may be considering. Since the attic is the topmost part of the house it needs proper insulation, and many different types of insulation can be used in the attic. Other common types of insulation include blown insulation and fiberglass insulation. Blown insulation uses a compressor to diffuse the heat into the other parts of the attic. This type of insulation uses fire retardant cellulose.  The second one, fiberglass insulation usually comes in a roll and is cut into strips that are nailed or stapled into the beams of the roof. The third one, loose fill attic insulation, uses an environmentally material that helps absorb heat.

R-Values

The term R-values refers to the measurement of thermal resistance of the insulator. Ergo, the higher the R-value, the more the insulator is resistant to heat. The level of R-value you need for your home is determined by your cooling and heating system, together with the climate in your region.

Loose Fill Insulation

When you look at insulators and notice a fibrous material in it, you are looking at a loose fill insulator. The fibrous material is made out of different recyclable materials, all treated to be resistant to heat.

Since the materials are all recyclable, this insulation is often hailed as an environmental-friendly one.

Cellulose Loose Fill Insulation

Cellulose loose-fill insulation uses recyclable materials such as old boxes and newspapers. These materials are then reduced and pulverized, making them into the “filler” of the insulator. Then it goes under this process wherein chemicals are mixed into this composition to make it resistant to fire and pests.

Fiberglass Loose Fill Insulation

Fiberglass loose-fill insulation is type of insulation that uses fiberglass. Glass is melted then spun into small fibers. These small fibers serve the same purpose to the pulverized and treated boxes and newspapers.

Rock Wool Loose Fill Insulation

Rockwool loose-fill insulation, also known as “Slag wool insulation,” is a similar to its fiberglass counterpart. The only difference is the composition of the fibers is not made from molten glass. Instead, the topmost layer that forms on molten layer is produced then spun until it becomes a fibrous material that can be used for insulation. This type of fiber is also known as “blast furnace slag.”

If you plan to install your own insulator, make sure that all areas in the room is clean and clear from obstruction and dirt; and seal all coverings with duct tape.