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Homeowners

Check out the video to see the benefits of cellulose, including the impact our product has on the environment, courtesy of Producer Member Advanced Fiber Technology.

Environmentally friendly

Cellulose insulation is a building thermal insulation material which consists of up to 85% recycled paper and cardboard fibers. It also contains additives for fire resistance, and some has been treated with boric acid for protection from pest infestation and moisture. Cellulose is itch-free and doesn’t cause irritation to installers or homeowners. Read our report, The Carbon Story of Cellulose Insulation here.

Thermal protection and energy savings

Air infiltration and exfiltration has a major impact on the R-Value – the thermal resistance – that insulation delivers and, as a result, on the thermal performance of an insulated dwelling. Loose-fill cellulose insulation has an average R-value of 3.6 per inch, and dense-pack cellulose has an average R-value of 3.7 per inch. Remember that you need to set the blowing machine correctly and insulate at the correct densities to achieve these R-values. Putting forth the cost to better insulate your home now will translate to decades of savings on your energy bills. 

Protection in a fire

All cellulose insulation is treated with fire retardants to meet federal, state/province, and local fire safety requirements. The addition of these additives will slow the spread of a fire, allowing you more time to escape any danger. When properly installed, cellulose insulation can help reduce the spread of flames in house and building fires. Some manufacturers have even qualified two- and three-hour firewall designs using cellulose insulation.

Reduce the noise

Cellulose insulation is widely used to help limit exterior noise intrusions as well as noise between rooms. Where air flows, sound follows. Cellulose is engineered to fill the tiny joints, crevices and gaps hidden within your attic, walls, floors and ceilings. Highly effective as sound insulation, it serves as a scientifically advanced barrier capable of muffling sounds that typically infiltrate and reverberate through our homes.

Mold and pest resistant

The hygroscopic nature of cellulose insulation allows it to manage and wick moisture from areas of greater to lesser concentrations, thus preventing damaging amounts of moisture from accumulating. This is a key distinction between cellulose and other types of insulation and an important benefit for homeowners when making insulation decisions.

Tax incentives available

For potential savings opportunities in the form of tax credits and similar incentives from the U.S. Department of Energy, the DSIRE website database lists incentive programs for many state and local programs around the nation. Natural Resources Canada has a Directory of Energy Efficiency Programs for Homes that includes federal and provincial incentives. Also check with your local utility company about insulation savings programs that may not be listed elsewhere.

Insulation Savings Calculator

Installing Cellulose

DIY installation

Whether a new build or an old house, cellulose insulation can be installed in any type of home. Handy homeowners can install cellulose insulation in an attic (have at least one other person available to assist). When installing cellulose in an attic or ceiling, follow the directions on the manufacturer’s bag and/or website, ensuring proper ventilation and care.

The right gear

Cellulose insulation is compressively packaged, so it must be installed with a blowing machine, which can be rented or sometimes borrowed from many home improvement stores, lumber yards, or tool rental centers. As with most home improvement projects, it is recommended that you wear protective gear such as a mask and eye protection during the installation process. 

Call the pros

We strongly advise hiring an experienced contractor to apply insulation in wall cavities and other areas. CIMA recommends air sealing the gaps around electrical boxes, plumbing, windows, and other areas within the house prior to installation of insulation material.

How much to buy?

The amount of insulation you need depends mainly on the climate in which you live. Your energy savings from insulation will depend upon the climate, the type and size of your house, the amount of insulation already in your home, and your energy use patterns. To get the marked R-value, it is essential that insulation is installed properly.

Recommended insulation levels for retrofitting existing wood-framed buildings (Energy Star)

Want to see installation of cellulose in new construction or retrofit of an existing home?

Click the videos below to see examples.

New construction, courtesy of Producer Member Soprema

Retrofit installation – dense-packed cellulose in an existing home