Cellulose Insulation

Cellulose insulation is a type of building insulation made primarily from recycled paper products, such as newsprint and cardboard, that are treated with fire-retardant chemicals (usually borates) to make them safe and resistant to pests, mold, and fire. It’s an eco-friendly option because it uses up to 80–85% recycled materials.

Key Features

  • Material: Mostly recycled paper fibers.
  • Fire Resistance: Treated with boric acid or other fire-retardant chemicals.
  • Density: Heavier than fiberglass, which helps reduce air leakage and improve soundproofing.
  • Application: Can be blown into walls, attics, and other cavities using special equipment, filling gaps more effectively than batt insulation.

Advantages

  • Environmentally friendly due to high recycled content.
  • Good thermal performance (similar or better than fiberglass).
  • Excellent at reducing air infiltration and sound transmission.
  • Often considered safer since it doesn’t contain fiberglass particles that can irritate the skin and lungs.

Drawbacks

  • Can settle over time if not properly installed, reducing effectiveness.
  • More prone to moisture absorption compared to spray foam.
  • Needs professional installation for best performance.