Spray-in Insulation versus Blown-in Insulation
Have you been noticing utility bill spike-up anomalies in your home recently? Or are you planning on building your dream home and are making sure it will offer your family the best everyday comfort? Then, you should look into insulating the very grounds of your humble abode!
there are two main types of insulation: spray-in insulation and blown-in insulation. Both have their pros and cons, and can be applicable in a myriad of ways; so it can be difficult to decide which is the best option for your home.
In this article, we will define, compare, and differentiate the two renowned home insulation methods, so that you can make an informed decision about which is the most suitable for you. We will also give you tips in making the decision, so buckle up and stay with us!
What is Spray-in Foam Insulation?
Spray foam insulation is a type of insulation that is sprayed onto the surface of a wall or ceiling. It is a great option for homeowners who want to insulate their homes quickly and easily. This is made of polyol residue (hydroxylated compound) and isocyanate, which is a bonding agent that’s frequently utilized in surface coating to make solid foams like spray foam.
When you first spray foam, it might not seem like much, but it soon begins to expand. Its liquid volume can double or triple from what it was when you initially sprayed the foam.
Spray-in insulation has a very good thermal resistance, which is one of its most distinctive features. Heat movement can go about in three ways: convective, radiant, and conductive heat transfer. Spray foam insulation can prevent all three types of heat flow, which helps to explain why it has a high R-value (a measurement of how well it ensures utmost insulation).
The Ups and Downs
Let’s start with the plusses:
- For different applications, you can choose between open-cell and closed-cell spray foam, which offers a share of benefits, as well.
- Efficient in air leakage prevention to lower utility expenditure
- Spray foam has a superb R-value since it can stop all three types of heat transfer.
- Spray foam is a simple material to work with, especially in confined spaces.
There are a few drawbacks of spray foam insulation to think about and here are some:
- If you use spray foam carelessly during property installation, it might contain toxins.
- Spray-in insulation can be quite difficult to install.
- Spray foam insulation costs between $1.50 and $3 per square foot, depending on the type and thickness of spray foam used in your installation. Fiberglass insulation, on the other hand, ranges from about $0.35 to $2.50 per square foot (based on specifications).
What is Blown-in Insulation?
Blown-in is a type of insulation that is blown into the walls or ceilings of a home. It is a great option for homeowners who want to save money on their energy bills. These are fiberglass or cellulose that’s blown into cavities in walls to fill in gaps in insulation. This insulation is great for attics with nooks and crannies that are difficult to insulate using fiberglass batting because of their size and form.
Because cellulose blown-ins are produced from recycled materials, it is the least expensive option. Blown-in insulation may endure for up to 20 years and provide dependable service when installed.
Sometimes home is completely finished, but the owner decides that they wish blown-in cellulose insulation. In this situation, the task would entail drilling a hole into the interior drywall or plaster, or exterior siding. Then a technician would insert a blower nozzle in the hole and fill it with cellulose as a form of insulator installation.
After placing the insulation, the expert and their team would repair the wall to cover up any indications of a hole.
The Ups and Downs
Let’s look at the advantages and drawbacks of blown-in cellulose, as we did with spray foam insulation. Let us go ahead with the plusses:
- Cellulose blown-in is fire resistant, which should put any homeowner’s mind at ease.
- It is also an efficient insulating option, as the former method.
- Insulation of cellulose will also help to minimize outside noises, allowing you to unwind in your house more easily.
- If the cellulose is produced from recycled wood, it may be considered “eco-friendly.” (However, you might occasionally discover borate, a chemical treatment that lowers the insulation’s overall ecological friendliness.)
However, here are some potential drawbacks you must know:
- Holes on your walls from drilling.
- Loose insulation might settle down to the point where empty or heated air can seep in, making it less efficient.
- The cellulose insulation has a reduced R-value (about R-13) compared to both spray foam (about R-19) and fiberglass batts. As a result, it takes up more room and material to achieve the same R-value as spray foam.
- It can also be quite difficult to install and is not as efficient as spray-ins.
Which is more suitable for you?
There are a few factors to consider when selecting between blown-in insulation and spray-in insulation in your home:
- Application flexibility: Blown-in and spray foam insulation are both versatile, so they may be molded to fill almost any space or gap in your house. Spray foam insulation can cause moisture damage and mold and mildew growth in some situations, therefore it’s essential to get a professional opinion first.
- Pricing: In many situations, both insulating procedures are comparable in price. However, it depends on the sort of insulation used. The recycled material blown-in method is typically less expensive than fiberglass options. To obtain an idea of the cost of your insulation project, get a quotation from a skilled professional engineer.
- Lifespan: Foam-based spray-in insulation is more expensive upfront, but it may last far longer than the other one. The length of time your insulation lasts will depend on a variety of factors, including the installation process, the material used, and your property. Make certain that you work with a professional insulation contractor if you want the greatest longevity from your insulation.
Let the Pros handle your business
So, which type of insulation is right for you? If you want a quick and easy way to insulate your home, spray-in foam insulation is the best option. If you want to save money on your energy bills, blown-in insulation is the best option.
We know that choosing the best bang for your buck can be daunting, so don’t hesitate to let the experts come in. Firms like the guys in iFoam can definitely venture with you on your cause. They can help you from the very start of planning up to the installation endeavor!
Now, we’ll end this talk with a pro tip: Because spray polyurethane insulation can fit into smaller gaps and areas than blown-in cellulose, you shouldn’t limit yourself to using only one type, and instead incorporate both to your house. It’s a great option because both of these types of insulation are low-cost enough to make this feasible.
Once your insulation and sound-deadening insulating materials are dry, you’ll be able to enjoy all benefits of both the spray-in insulation and blown-in insulation, especially the noise-reducing qualities. Your home will be quieter, more pleasant, and more energy-efficient!
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