For homeowners who need to have insulation installed or even just redone, there is a long line of different types of insulation to choose from. Blown insulation is one of the top picks. Considering the pros and cons is important to do before making a final decision to ensure you make the right choice.
One advantage of this particular insulation lies in the fact that it is so fast and easy to install. If you know what you are doing, you could attempt to take on the task yourself. If you hire a professional company to do it for you it will take even less time. This insulation usually is not as messy as other types, which is favorable for most homeowners. Especially if you were hoping to take this on as a DIY project blown insulation will be your best option. It will save you from the mess of plaster and dust from spray or roll insulation.
Blown attic insulation also tends to be a more cost-effective choice. Especially in today’s poor economy, homeowners are taking the cost of home repairs more seriously and that includes getting insulation. This insulation is usually made primarily from cellulose, which offers the best cost-to-benefit ratio. Compared to batts or roll insulation and spray applied insulation this is one of your most affordable options.
You can even look for loose fill or blown insulation that is made of completely recycled content. Then you are not only saving your money but also helping the environment by relying on recycled material.
This insulation is suitable for attics with lots of cavity space and is widely available. You can easily find it at local hardware and home renovation stores.
Just as you can find certain benefits to consider, there are also a few downfalls. One of the disadvantages posed by this insulation is that there is special equipment required to install it. Even if you were willing to do the work yourself, you would need to consult a professional first in most cases. With the loose fill insulation it is usually just easier to have a professional company come and do the work for you. You will probably be saving yourself money because otherwise you would need to rent or purchase the equipment just to use for this one job.
The loose fill type of insulation does not respond well to areas of high moisture content. There are often problems with it rotting and growing mold so this is definitely something to consider.
It is easy to see all the pros and cons that come with loose fill insulation, as there are with all other types. Every home and situation is different and you can only determine which insulation will be right for your house by carefully considering all your options.
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Good post, just a quick tip for anyone wanting to use blown in insulation. Mark all of your junction boxes or any other areas you may have to go back to someday with spray paint or flags before you blow in the insulation and cover everything up.