Blown-in loosefill insulation is commonly used in homes for its efficiency and low cost, it is more easily installed in hard-to-reach places than any other insulating material, being blown into place using a high powered, specialized machine and a hose. Both fiberglass and cellulose, the two most common types of loosefill insulation on the market, are made from recycled products.

Cellulose is the oldest type of insulation and has an R-value between R3.2 and R3.8, making it slightly more effective than fiberglass. It’s an eco-friendly option because it’s composed of 80% post-consumer newspaper scraps. Flame retardants and pest deterrents are also used to treat cellulose, making it more fire resistant and less susceptible to rodents than fiberglass .

Fiberglass has a lower recycled content of 20% recycled glass and an R-value of R2 to R3. It is also treated with flame retardants, however is more flammable than cellulose. It also does not deter pests as well as cellulose, and is more costly, however it is still a popular choice amongst homeowners and builders alike for its ease of installation.

There are many factors to consider when deciding between cellulose and fiberglass loosefill insulation, but both are excellent choices for insulating your home or building.