Cellulose is a More Efficient Insulation
CELLULOSE vs. FIBERGLASS
High efficiency cellulose insulation versus fiberglass insulation, choosing one is a big decision in new home construction or an existing home upgrade; each has different r-values when it comes to home and building insulation.
Below is some information about blown in cellulose insulation Vs fiberglass insulation so you can make an informed decision?
The University of Colorado at Denver School of Architecture & Planning studied the performance of cellulose insulation verses glass fiber insulation. In their statement of conclusion, the researchers note that cellulose was as much as 38% more efficient than glass fiber insulation.
In one experiment, the university conducted an overnight heat-loss test. A cellulose-insulated test building remained 7° F warmer than a glass fiber insulated test building. No additional heat was applied during the night to either building. Note: both structures were insulated to the same published R-value!
Loose Fill Cellulose Insulation vs. Loose Fill Fiberglass Insulation in a simulated residential attic under winter conditions.
FIBERGLASS: As the outside temperature drops, the R-Value of loose fill fiberglass insulation decreases dramatically.
| MASTERING CHAMBER (F) |
CLIMATE TEMP (F) |
R-VALUE |
|---|---|---|
70° F |
44.6° F |
17.8 |
70° F |
26.8° F |
14.1 |
70° F |
8.6° F |
12.0 |
70° F |
-4.0° F |
10.6 |
70° F |
-18.4° F |
9.2 |
CELLULOSE: As the outside temperature drops, the R-Value of loose fill cellulose insulation increases.
| MASTERING CHAMBER (F) |
CLIMATE TEMP (F) |
R-VALUE |
|---|---|---|
70° F |
40° F |
18 |
70° F |
20° F |
18.8 |
70° F |
8° F |
19.4 |
70° F |
-5° F |
19.6 |
70° F |
-18° F |
20.3 |




