Blown-in insulation is an effective and popular method for insulating homes and buildings. It is made of loose-fill materials such as cellulose, fiberglass, or mineral wool that are blown into the walls, attics, and crawlspaces. However, homeowners often wonder if blown-in insulation may settle over time, compromising its effectiveness. In this article, we will explore whether blown-in insulation can settle and how it may impact its performance.
Understanding Blown-In Insulation
Blown-in insulation is an excellent insulation choice due to its ability to fill gaps, cracks, and other irregularities, creating a more airtight and thermal barrier. It is commonly used in attics and walls where there may be hard-to-reach areas or obstacles present. The loose-fill materials are typically installed using special equipment that blows them into the desired areas, allowing for even distribution.
Potential Settling of Blown-In Insulation
While blown-in insulation is designed to be significantly resistant to settling, some degree of settling may occur over time. Settling happens when the loose-fill materials compact due to gravity, vibrations, or the natural settlement of a building’s structure. However, the extent of settling in blown-in insulation is minimal compared to other types of insulation such as batt or roll insulation.
Factors Affecting Settling
Several factors can influence the settling of blown-in insulation. These include the type of loose-fill material used, the installation method, the height of the insulation, and the conditions within the building. Let’s examine these factors in more detail:
1. Type of Loose-Fill Material:
- Cellulose: Cellulose insulation is made from recycled paper products treated with fire-retardant chemicals. It can settle slightly over time, typically around 15-25%, but this settling is considered negligible.
- Fiberglass: Fiberglass blown-in insulation is made of small glass fibers and is known to be relatively resistant to settling. It may experience minimal compaction over an extended period, but the impact on overall insulation performance is negligible.
- Mineral Wool: Mineral wool insulation, composed of mineral fibers, also shows a minimal degree of settling. Similar to fiberglass, the settling has a negligible effect on its insulating capabilities.
2. Installation Method:
- Proper installation is essential to minimize settling. Installers must follow manufacturer guidelines and ensure consistent distribution to achieve optimal performance.
3. Height of Insulation:
- The height or thickness of the insulation can affect settling. Higher insulation depth provides more resistance to settling as there is a greater volume of loose-fill material to prevent compression.
4. Building Conditions:
- Building movement, vibrations, or excessive moisture can accelerate settling. Regular inspections and maintenance can identify and address any potential issues that could impact the integrity of the insulation.
Mitigating Settling of Blown-In Insulation
Although minimal settling may occur in blown-in insulation, there are methods to mitigate its impact and ensure long-term effectiveness:
1. Overfilling:
- Installers can initially overfill the insulation to account for future settling. This way, even after a minor settling, the insulation will still maintain the desired thickness and coverage.
2. Regular Inspections:
- Regular inspections of the insulation can help identify any settling or compaction issues early on. Addressing such issues promptly can prevent any potential reduction in insulation performance.
3. Enhancing Airtightness:
- Combining blown-in insulation with proper air sealing practices can further minimize the impact of settling. By preventing air movement, the insulation’s performance remains optimal, even if there is a small degree of settling.
While some settling may occur in blown-in insulation over time, it has minimal impact on its overall performance. The choice of loose-fill material, installation techniques, insulation height, and regular maintenance play crucial roles in mitigating settling effects. When installed correctly and combined with air sealing practices, blown-in insulation remains an effective and energy-efficient solution for homes and buildings in the long run.