Get the Facts About These Home Insulation Myths

June 25, 2015

It's time to insulate your home. If you're going to do it right, first you need to educate yourself on the subject, finding out exactly how insulation works and the best methods for insulating your home. Unfortunately, there's a lot of misinformation that can cause major insulation mistakes if you listen to it. So here are some of the major insulation myths you should avoid.

Myth: Cellulose Insulation Is Flammable Cellulose insulation is made largely from recycled newspapers, which burn easily. However, during manufacturing, the insulation is treated with borate, which gives it a Class A fire rating. If there is a fire, borate-treated cellulose won't produce smoke and will help keep the flames from spreading.

Myth: Cellulose Insulation is Expensive Cellulose does cost more to install than fiberglass insulation. However, the energy saved with cellulose will ultimately offset the price difference. Its performance is about on par with spray foam insulation, which costs more to install, making cellulose the best value overall.

Myth: R-Value Is Constant No matter what kind of insulation you get, the R-value will give you a clear idea of how much protection it can provide, right? This is one of the most persistent insulation myths. Insulation is tested in a lab, where certain conditions, such as wind, aren't a factor. Usually only one of the four different ways that heat is transferred through a wall is tested. So depending on conditions, some types of insulation will function more efficiently, even if their R-value is the same.

Myth: Attic Insulation Is a DIY Job You could install your own insulation, if you know what you're doing, but for most of us, it's better if you hire an expert. It looks like a simple job, but there's a lot more to it. You may need to get rid of the old insulation first, seal air leaks, block soffits and more. If you want to get the best, most energy-efficient installation, then hire a qualified HVAC contractor. For more help avoiding insulation myths, in the Des Moines area, contact us at Lozier Heating & Cooling. Our goal is to help educate our customers in the greater Des Moines, Iowa area about energy and home comfort issues (specific to HVAC systems). Credit/Copyright Attribution: "Ivelin Radkov/Shutterstock"