Batt Insulation Vs Blown In

Which insulation is best for your home or business: batt or blown in? Let’s look at the pros and cons of each insulation type.

What Is Blown In Insulation?

Blown in insulation is constructed of either fiberglass or cellulose that is blown into cavities in walls. This material is used to fill gaps in the insulation. Blown in insulation is ideal for attic spaces filled with nooks and crannies that are difficult to navigate through.

Cellulose blown in insulation is the most affordable option for home and business owners because it is made of recycled materials. Once it is installed, this insulation can last up to 25 years with very reliable performance overall.

Pros & Cons Of Blown In Insulation

Blown in insulation is great at keeping warm air from escaping the home or building during wintertime. This insulation also prevents any heat from entering inside during the hot summers.

Here is a list of a few benefits and drawbacks to installing blown in insulation:

Pros Of Blown In Insulation:

• Retains warm air in the winter.
• Fiberglass materials are completely fireproof.
• Ease of installation.
• Cellulose and fiberglass will soundproof your attic.

Cons Of Blown In Insulation:

• Too much insulation can cause ceilings to sag.
• Can succumb to mold.
• Will require professional installation.

What Is Batt Insulation?

Batt insulation is commonly referred to as “batts” or “rolls”. This type utilizes a flexible blanket-like insulation that is best suited for easily accessible areas. Batts and rolls can be used in non-standard areas, so the material will have to be cut to size.

The blankets come in high, medium and standard-density constructions, made from fiberglass, rock wool and other similar materials. Batt insulation can be fitted quite easily to the specific areas, but it may be hard to fit in unusual or hard-to-access areas.

Pros & Cons Of Batt Insulation

Batt or blanket insulation is typically made of mineral wool or fiberglass. Most often, you will find batt insulation sold in rolls, with pre-cut sizes offered in some cases. Batt insulation is usually used in exposed walls, ceilings, attics or floors. Here is a look at some pros and cons associated with batt insulation.

Pros Of Batt Insulation:

• This material is fire-resistant.
• Can hold up against water damage.
• This is the easiest material for any DIY projects.

Cons Of Batt Insulation:

• Hard to fit in oddly-shaped areas.
• Material will compress over time.
• Requires the use of personal protective equipment.

How Much Does Batt Insulation Cost?

On average, batt and roll installation costs between $0.80-$2.60 per square foot. This equates to an average of $1,100-$3,900 for installation, according to HomeGuide. A roll of insulation typically costs $20-$90, which will cover anywhere between 40-75 square feet.

How Much Does Blown In Insulation Cost?

Blow-in insulation (also known as loose-fill) costs between $1 to $1.50 per sq. ft. So, you can expect pay a little more for projects that require higher R valued insulation. Don’t forget when installing this type of insulation around any electrical wiring can be dangerous and may require you to hire a professional installer.

The average price of insulation services ranges anywhere from $40-70 per hour. It can be a lot more expensive to install insulation in older homes instead of a newer home. Bear in mind, the thicker the insulation, the longer its installation will take.

Should I Choose Blown In Or Batt Insulation?

Both blown in and batt insulation offer many benefits. Most home and business owners will choose an insulation type based on three factors: price, longevity and versatility. Most individuals decide on blown in insulation due to its low cost and long lifespan. Batt insulation, meanwhile, is a popular choice for anyone looking for an easy material to use for DIY home improvement projects. Contact Barrier Insulation & Energy LLC today for more information!

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