Cellulose insulation
Cellulose insulation is made from recycled paper treated with fire retardants, typically installed as blown-in loose fill.
Why it matters
Cellulose is denser than fiberglass and can reduce air movement through cavities. It is also made from recycled materials.
Where people get this wrong
Cellulose needs to stay dry. Wet cellulose loses effectiveness and can become heavy. Proper attic ventilation and air sealing help prevent moisture problems.
Real-world example
A crew blows cellulose into an attic. The gray fluffy material settles around obstacles better than batts would, reducing gaps.
Where this hits your build
This affects comfort, energy costs, and indoor air quality. It gets locked behind drywall, so decisions here need to be right before finishing starts.
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