Any discussion of insulation must begin with an understanding of R-value, the most common measure of thermal performance. R-value is determined in a laboratory, under controlled conditions, and measures only the conductivity of a given material at a specific temperature. Installed performance, where insulation is subject to numerous and changing conditions, is another matter entirely. Properly installed, the R-value of cellulose and foam insulations remains constant over a wide range of conditions, while the performance of most other insulations suffer dramatically.

We prefer to install cellulose insulation in wall and roof assemblies and attics due to what we believe to be superior performance. A properly performed cellulose installation will result in up to 40% lower energy costs than one using fiberglass batts. It is much better at noise suppression, fire prevention and control, pest deterrence, and moisture management than other insulations. In addition, it has a high-recycled content, low embodied energy, no chemical blowing agents, nothing to out gas, and is manufactured in New England. By its nature it is elegantly suited for its’ task, and subsequently it’s not that difficult to get a nearly perfect installation.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Owners home, viewing opposing sections of sloped roof in the master bedroom, infrared images taken 1 minute apart. Image on right is of roof section that was carefully insulated with fiberglass during original construction. The image on the left is a roof section where the fiberglass has been removed and replaced with dense pack cellulose. There are severe limitations to many insulation materials that simply cannot be overcome.

Efficiency Maine prohibits the use of loose blown fiberglass in attics, and for good reason, as this study by the Oak Ridge National Laboratory points out.