Choosing the right type of insulation for your NEPA home can impact long-term cost savings and comfort. Being such a cold climate, you’ll notice the difference between choosing a higher-quality insulating material over a lower-quality one.
Fiberglass batts and blown-in insulation are two of the most common types of insulation used in residential and commercial buildings.
While both offer comparable thermal resistance, their costs and installation difficulties vary. Likewise, the recommendation for batts or blown-in insulation can depend on the type of project you are looking to tackle.
This guide will discuss the pros and cons of fiberglass batts and blown-in insulation to help you decide which is best.
What Is Fiberglass Batt Insulation?
Fiberglass batt insulation is one of the most common types of DIY-friendly insulation. Prepared in pre-cut batts or rolls, this type of insulation can be installed between wall cavities, floor joists, and rafters to resist air flow between different areas of your home.
Fiberglass batts are made of fiberglass, mineral wool, or cotton and typically have an R-value range of R-2.9 to R-3.8 per inch. Batt insulation is rated to last anywhere from 10-25 years, depending on environmental conditions.
Pros of Batt Insulation
- Easy to Install – Batt insulation is designed for simple installation, making it a great option for DIY projects.
- Cost-Effective – Generally, batt insulation is more affordable than blown-in insulation.
- Readily Available – Available at most home improvement stores, batts are a common material you can find in a pinch.
- No Special Equipment Required – Unlike blown-in insulation, batts don’t require specialized equipment for installation and can be installed with simple tools.
Cons of Batt Insulation
- Requires Precision for Proper Fit – Gaps, compressions, and improper installation can reduce its effectiveness and lead to air leaks.
- Less Effective at Filling Gaps and Cracks – Batt insulation is more difficult to cut to shape and may not be suitable for round or oblong spaces.
- More Prone to Moisture and Mold: Contact with water or excess humidity can lead to mold and degrade the integrity of batts, leading to premature replacement.
What Is Blown-In Insulation?
Blown-in insulation, also known as loose-fill insulation, consists of tiny particles of fiberglass, cellulose, or mineral wool blown into wall cavities and rafters with a specialized device. This type of insulation is commonly used in attics, wall cavities, and other hard-to-reach spaces.
Blown-in fiberglass typically sits at an R-value range of R-2.2 to R-2.9 and can be a cost-effective way to insulate behind new or existing walls.
Cellulose is an eco-friendly alternative to blown-in fiberglass made of recycled newspaper and natural materials. Cellulose is treated with fire retardant chemicals to prevent flammability and typically has an R-value of R-3.1 to R-3.8.
Blown-in insulation can last 10-20 years but may suffer from settling, which causes it to lose its effectiveness slowly.
Pros of Blown-In Insulation
- Superior Coverage – Blown-in insulation fills in gaps, cracks, and irregularly shaped areas more effectively than batts.
- Higher Energy Efficiency – Because it creates a tighter seal, blown-in insulation can provide better thermal performance.
- Good for Retrofit Projects – Ideal for adding insulation behind existing walls without major renovations.
- Better for Soundproofing – The dense coverage of blown-in insulation can help reduce noise transmission.
Cons of Blown-In Insulation
- Requires Professional Installation – Special equipment is needed, making it more difficult to install DIY.
- Higher Initial Cost – The upfront cost of materials and professional labor can be higher than batt insulation.
- Settling Over Time – Some types of blown-in insulation, particularly cellulose, may settle over time, potentially reducing effectiveness.
Comparing Batts vs. Blown-In Insulation
Many factors can impact your decision when deciding between batts and blown-in insulation. Here are the top four.
1. Installation
Regarding installation difficulty, batt insulation is the easiest to install and doesn’t require any special tools. With that said, batts can be labor intensive, especially in hot attics or basements, so professional assistance is always recommended.
Blown-in fiberglass or cellulose requires a blower machine, which may be available for rent at some hardware stores. However, it should really be left to a professional.
2. Cost
Batts and blown-in insulation are considered more affordable alternatives to spray foam insulation, but cost is typically an indicator of efficiency in the insulation industry. Generally, batt insulation is considered more affordable depending on whether you choose to DIY it, and there are different sizes and R-values to choose from that will impact pricing. Calculating costs for blown-in insulation depends on the type of material, the size of the insulated area, and your individual contractor’s rates.
3. Energy Efficiency
The two offer thermal resistance that is generally comparable, though fiberglass batts are considered slightly better in this department. However, blown-in insulation offers more uniform coverage and prevents air leaks, which can actually deliver more savings over time. Therefore, the efficiency of each material depends on how it is installed.
4. Moisture Resistance
Batts are technically rated to last longer, though they are often more prone to moisture. If you install batts in an attic or space with poor ventilation, adding more vents or choosing a better material that can resist moisture might be ideal.
One such material is cellulose, which can absorb moisture and generally resist mold growth or degradation. Nevertheless, all forms of blown-in insulation are prone to settling, which can impact efficiency over time.
5. Best Applications
Finally, batt and blown-in insulation are better suited for different applications. For example, batts are easy to install in new or unfinished portions of your home, such as attics, basement walls, and rim joists.
On the other hand, blown-in insulation is a better option for retrofitted projects that need to access behind existing walls.
Which One Is Right for You?
Batt and blown-in insulation are both fine choices for whatever insulation project you need in your home. Batts are typically preferable for individuals on a budget who want to DIY their insulation.
Nevertheless, we caution people against tackling basement and attic projects independently as achieving the proper balance between ventilation and insulation is important. Furthermore, air leaks due to improper insulation can quickly derail your project.
On the other hand, blown-in insulation is affordable and uniform, preventing air leaks. While settling may impact performance over time, blown-in insulation is one of the only options available–other than spray foam–to insulate behind existing walls and ceilings.
No matter what type of insulation you choose, partner with the right contractor to ensure the job is done right. EnergySmart has decades of combined experience handling all types of insulation projects and materials, ensuring your home achieves maximum comfort and savings during the cold winter.
FAQs
Can I add blown-in insulation over existing batt insulation?
Yes, in most cases, you can add blown-in insulation over existing batts to improve energy efficiency. However, ensure the existing insulation is dry and in good condition before adding more.
Which insulation type is better for soundproofing?
Blown-in insulation generally provides better soundproofing because it fills gaps and creates a denser barrier against noise transmission.
How long does each type of insulation last?
Both batt and blown-in insulation can last 20-30 years or more with proper installation and maintenance. However, factors like moisture exposure and settling can affect longevity.
