What Are the Most Common Problems with Blown-In Insulation?

Blown-in insulation is a popular choice for homeowners looking to boost energy efficiency whether it’s made from fiberglass, cellulose or mineral wood. It’s budget friendly, fills gaps well, and can be installed relatively quickly. Even though it's popular, blown-in insulation isn’t perfect.

If you're planning to install blown-in insulation for your walls or attic, you should be aware of the possible issues that may arise. Here are some important things to remember:

7 Most Common Problems with Blown-In Insulation You Should Know About

1. Settling Over Time

   Cellulose is a major disadvantage of blown-in insulation because it can compress or settle over time. Reduced performance and uneven temperature throughout your house can result from it losing some of its insulating value (R-value) as it compresses.

2. Moisture Absorption and Mold Risk

   Cellulose insulation is basically made from recycled papers which absorbs moisture. If your attic has high humidity or a roof leak, the insulation can become damp which leads to mold, wood rot and that musty smell. On top of that, once it's wet, it doesn’t insulate nearly as well."

3. Uneven Coverage or Voids

   Blown-in insulation needs to be evenly distributed to work properly. There may be gaps or areas with uneven coverage if the installer works quickly or doesn't fill cavities all the way. By allowing warm or cool air to escape, these voids function as heat highways, decreasing overall efficiency.

4. Dust and Air Quality Concerns

   Blown-in insulation releases fine dust into the air during installation and even afterward. This is particularly common with cellulose. Without proper sealing and ventilation, these particles can affect indoor air quality, triggering allergies or respiratory issues

5. Difficult to Remove or Inspect

   It can be difficult and messy to remove the insulation if you ever need to reach wiring, pipes, or structural components that are concealed beneath it. Blown-in material must be vacuumed or scooped out, which is a laborious and dusty process, in contrast to batt insulation that lifts out in rolls.

6. Pest Attraction (in Some Cases)

   Cellulose, being organic, may attract insects or rodents if not treated with the right additives. Even though the majority of contemporary cellulose is treated with borate to keep pests away, it's still vital to keep an eye out for any indications that animals have made your attic their comfortable new home.

7. Not Ideal for Open Wall Cavities

   While it’s great for attics and enclosed spaces, blown-in insulation can be tricky to apply in open wall cavities without netting or a cover to contain it. Improper installation can lead to sagging or spillage.

Is Blown-In Insulation Still a Good Choice?

Even with these possible drawbacks, blown-in insulation is still a good choice, particularly for attics and retrofits, provided it is installed correctly by qualified experts.The key is to:

• Use the right type for your climate and needs

• Ensure proper air sealing and ventilation

• Work with trusted contractors

• Address moisture or leak issues beforehand

Although blown-in insulation isn't flawless, when applied properly, it can be quite beneficial. Just be sure to be aware of these potential hazards so that you can make an informed choice and take advantage of a more comfortable, energy-efficient home.

If you’re not sure where to start, here we are! At American Insulation, we specialize in Blown in insulation to help homeowners achieve top-tier efficiency.

Contact us today for professional installation and expert advice!