Cellulose Insulation for Energy Efficiency
"R-Value" (an expression of heat transfer resistance) is the standard for measuring insulation performance. Cellulose Insulation provides the highest effective R-Value regardless of the outside air temperature, but R value is only one factor in the energy efficiency of a home. Studies of actual buildings regularly show that cellulose-insulated buildings may use 20% to 40% less energy than buildings with fiber glass, even if the R-value of the insulation in the walls and ceilings is identical. One reason for this is the capacity of cellulose to stop air infiltration.
Compare the following photos section of wall. The photo on the left shows fiberglass
insulation. Because the fiberglass batts must be inserted around and behind the
existing pipes there are gaps and exposed piping. But the cellulose insulation
as shown in the photo on the right, leaves no gaps or exposed areas where air
can infiltrate.
