Fiberglass is made of tiny glass fibers bonded together. It is pink, yellow, or white and has a spongy feel. It comes in rolled blankets called batts that are designed to fit the standard joist width builders use for walls and floors.
The material works by trapping air pockets that inhibit heat transfer. It also helps keep indoor temperatures stable and cuts energy costs.
It’s durable
Fiberglass insulation is a durable material that lasts for decades. It also helps reduce your energy bills by creating a barrier that keeps heat from escaping in the winter and intruding in the summer. However, this material can lose its effectiveness over time, and a professional should inspect it regularly to determine whether it is performing properly.
The raw materials used in fiberglass insulation can be obtained from natural minerals and manufactured chemicals. Some of these include silica sand, limestone, soda ash, borax, and calcined alumina. These materials require a great deal of geothermal, mechanical, and chemical energy to produce.
When these materials are combined with a plastic resin, they form fiberglass insulation. There are several different types of glass used in the production of fiberglass, each with specific properties. For example, R-glass has high magnesium oxide (MgO) content and offers superior tensile strength while S-glass is made of aluminum silicate with low MgO and is known for its corrosion resistance.
Binding agents and additives are then incorporated into the glass to create a mat-like insulation material. The exact combination of ingredients is carefully controlled to ensure that the finished product meets industry standards and regulations. Moreover, recycled glass material can be used to make fiberglass insulation. This is a more environmentally responsible option that utilizes existing materials rather than mining new ones.
It’s easy to install
Fiberglass insulation is an affordable, easy-to-install option that slows the spread of heat and cold in homes. It comes in both blown-in and batt forms, making it suitable for new construction and retrofits. The material is based on recycled glass, making it an environmentally friendly choice. It is also fire-resistant and can be used on walls, attics, and floors. Compared to alternatives like spray foam or rigid foam boards, fiberglass is more susceptible to moisture absorption, so proper humidity control is critical.
The insulating properties of fiberglass are based on the fact that it traps air pockets between its fine glass fibers, creating a barrier that limits the movement of hot or cold air. Whether this is external air trying to enter a home during the winter or internal heat escaping during the summer, the trapped air prevents it from passing through, keeping rooms warm or cool as needed.
The material is made from tiny fibers of glass spun at a high temperature. These are then packed together into rolls, called batts, that are designed to fit the standard joist width builders use in walls and floor cavities. Blown-in wall systems take this a step further, by combining the fiberglass batts with a layer of plastic to ensure it fills a wall cavity. The installation process is relatively simple and requires no special equipment or knowledge. However, it is still important to wear appropriate protective gear, as the tiny glass fibers can cause skin irritation and respiratory problems if inhaled.
It’s affordable
Fiberglass insulation is one of the least expensive home improvement projects you can make. Its low price makes it a popular choice for homeowners who want to save money on energy bills. However, it is important to note that the efficiency of fiberglass depends on its proper installation. Gaps, compression, and improper placement can greatly reduce its effectiveness. Therefore, it is essential to hire a professional installer.
Homeowners can purchase fiberglass insulation in blanket form, or blown-in insulation. Both are available in different R-values to meet the insulating needs of their homes. The cost of fiberglass can vary depending on the size of the area being insulated, the condition of existing insulation, and whether it’s purchased in batts or in bags to be blown-in. It also varies by state, as different climate zones require a certain R-value.
Unlike spray foam or antiquated types of insulation, fiberglass doesn’t contain any harmful chemicals. It is made of recycled glass and sand and is a great alternative for those who are worried about environmental issues. It’s also noncombustible and safe for human exposure.
Although fiberglass isn’t completely inert, it does slow conductive heat transfer. It can be used in many areas, including the attic, basement, crawl space, and rim joist. It can be found in rolls of paper-backed fiberglass, or bags with standard pre-cut lengths and widths. It can also be bought with a vapor retardant, which helps to prevent moisture and mold growth in the crawl space or attic.
It’s environmentally friendly.
Fiberglass insulation is made from recycled materials, making it a green option. It is also non-combustible, reducing the risk of fires and smoke from the attic or living space. It also performs well in humid climates and resists moisture from seeping through the roof or causing mold growth.
In addition, fiberglass insulation is eco-friendly because it saves energy. A thermally efficient home requires less energy, lowering your electricity bills and reducing fossil fuel consumption. This in turn reduces greenhouse gas emissions and the need for new power plants.
Another reason to choose fiberglass insulation is that it is not a source of formaldehyde. Although some old fiberglass insulation may contain formaldehyde, new installations do not. This is because the strands of fiberglass are not bonded with any formaldehyde.
While fiberglass is the most popular form of home insulation, other eco-friendly options include cellulose, slag wool, rock wool, and foam glass. Cellulose, for example, uses sawdust, cotton, and other plant fibers with low thermal conductivity. It can be purchased as a rolled-up sheet called a batt or loose-fill and blown into attics, walls, and floors. It is available in different R-Values to match the climate zone in which your house is located. It is a good option for older homes because it can get to hard-to-reach areas with limited access to pipes and HVAC.