Cellulose or Foam Insulation: Which is Better?

What is Cellulose Insulation?

Cellulose insulation is made from recycled paper products treated with fire retardants and chemicals to resist mold, insects, and moisture. It's usually blown into place with a machine, and one of the benefits of cellulose insulation is that you can replace it with existing insulation without removing the old one. It can give your home an energy-saving upgrade without a lot of mess or disruption.

Benefits of Cellulose Over Foam Insulation

Environment-Friendly: Cellulose insulation is an environmentally friendly option because it is prepared from recycled materials. It will also help you save money on your energy bills, which is good for the environment too.

Fire Resistant: Cellulose insulation is treated with fire retardants, making it more resistant to fire than foam insulation. The foam insulation is made of petroleum-based products, which are highly flammable.

R-Value: Cellulose insulation has an R-value of around R-13 to R-15, while foam insulation has an R-value of about R-11 to R-20. So, foam insulation is better in terms of R-value.

Non-Toxic: Cellulose insulation is treated with fire retardants and chemicals to resist mold, insects, and moisture. It is safer for you and your family in case of a fire. It is also rated the best insulation for preventing moisture damage and mold growth.

Mold and Pest Resistant: Cellulose insulation is treated with borates, making it resistant to both mold and pests. While foam insulation also offers a good resistance, it serves as a food source for some pests, so they may still try to infest your home.

What Is Foam Insulation?

Foam insulation is made from a type of plastic, i.e., polyurethane. The most common type of foam insulation is called closed-cell foam insulation. Closed-cell foam insulation is made by mixing two chemicals and then spraying them onto a surface. The chemicals react with each other and create bubbles. These bubbles give foam insulation its unique properties.

Benefits of Foam Over Cellulose Insulation:

Durable Insulation: Closed-cell foam is one of the most durable types of insulation on the market. It can withstand a lot of wear and tear, making it a great choice for areas prone to flooding or leaks.

Energy Efficient: Foam insulation is very good at resisting heat transfer. It will keep your home cooler in summer and warmer in winter, thereby keeping the energy bills lower and your home comfortable.

Non-Toxic: Foam insulation is made from polyurethane, making it a completely non-toxic material. Cellulose, on the other hand, is treated with chemicals to make it fire resistant.

R-Value: Foam insulation has a higher R-Value, meaning it is better at insulating your home. Cellulose insulation does not have as high of an R-Value. If you live in a colder climate, foam insulation is the better choice.

Cost: Foam insulation is generally more expensive than cellulose insulation. However, there are different types of foam insulation with a range of prices.

Conclusion: Cellulose Or Foam Insulation Is Better?

After looking at the pros and cons of cellulose and foam insulation, it's hard to say which is better. Your specific needs and preferences play a vital role in making a decision. If you're looking for an eco-friendly option, cellulose is the way to go. But if you need something that will give you better energy efficiency, foam insulation is the better choice. Ultimately, the decision is up to you. Whichever option you choose, ensure to do your research and hire a reputable contractor to install it.