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What is blown-in fibreglass insulation?

The blown-in fibreglass insulation system uses virgin fibreglass insulation (no additives, binding agents or chemicals) to manufacture a seamless blanket of insulation in cathedral ceilings, floors and walls. It is a unique state-of-the-art insulation system that uses conventional fibreglass which is processed into a blowing wool. The insulation is blown through a hose and out a nozzle into the cavity behind a fibre mesh that is attached to the studs.

Does blown-in fibreglass require a vapour barrier?

Yes. All fibreglass insulation requires a vapour barrier.

What is the R-value of your blown-in fibreglass compared to batt insulation?

A 2 x 6 wall will perform at an R24. Batts in a 2 x 6 wall are sold to perform at an R-value of R19 to R24, but tests conducted by the National Research Council concluded that an R19 fibreglass batt with minor installation defects will only perform at an R12½. Blown-in fibreglass will always perform at the installed R-value because the insulation is manufactured onsite to a specified density that ensures a true working R-value.

Where can I use blown-in fibreglass?

Blown-in fibreglass is normally installed in framed walls, cathedral ceilings, floor joistsand rim joists. Blown-in fibreglass is custom fit and can be used for irregular, difficultand creative framing.

Are there any sound control benefits with blown-in fibreglass?

Yes, definitely. The NRC (Noise Reduction Coefficient) is 1.15 using the ASTM C 423 test method with E795 Type A mounting. Studies conducted show that Blown-In Fibreglass will contribute to a higher STC rating than most other insulation. An STC Rating (Sound Transmission Class) is an average rating across the entire wallassembly in a controlled ASTM E90 test. STC Ratings will vary for the same insulation used in different wall assemblies.

Can I install blown-in fibreglass myself?

No. Blown-in fibreglass can only be installed by a certified installer.

Will blown-in fibreglass settle?

No, not if the fibreglass is installed at the correct design density. Certified blown-in fibreglass contractors are required to do density tests in every application (generally every 600 feet). Caution should be taken if cellulose is used in the blown-in fibreglass because it will settle. Thermo Seal will not install Cellulose in blown in applications or attics because it settles and reduces the R-value. Blown-in fibreglass won’t settle from gravitational forces or household vibrations such as slamming doors. CCMC reported after a simulated drop test (60 times from a height of 2.5 cm) that there was no settlement.

Does blown-in fibreglass hold moisture?

No. Blown-in fibreglass insulation is not absorbent and, if exposed to moisture, will not wick up (pull water through) or hold water. It will dry out and retain its original R-value. Insulation is required to absorb not more than 5% moisture by weight. The ASTM C-553 test showed that insulation used in the blown-in fibreglass absorbed a maximum of 3% moisture by weight.

Does blown-in fibreglass create void areas?

No. The insulation moulds itself around obstacles in the walls, eliminating voids, gaps or seams. Pipes, wiring and electrical boxes are synonymous with insulation voids, and voids mean inefficiency. The system fills tightly around all wiring and piping,leaving no costly gaps or voids that could allow cold air to enter your home or warm air to escape. Blown-in fibreglass manufactures a seamless blanket of insulation that custom fits any size or shape cavity. This guarantees a uniform R-value throughout the entire cavityand controls air infiltration.

Can I insulate the walls in my existing property?

Yes. Blown-infibreglass can be installed in retrofit applications to help reduce heat loss and make your home more energy efficient. Retrofit applications can be installed from the interior or exterior of the home. Interior installations will require the use of a 2″ hole saw to drill into each cavity in order to blow insulation into the wall. If you are already in the process of renovating your home and can remove any existing drywall or panelling, the installation can be done in the same way as new construction. Exterior retrofit installation can be achieved using a 2″ hole saw through the exterior walls; but,you if are able to remove the exterior finishing so the cavity is accessible to us, there won’t be a need to drill into the exterior of your home. The holes created will be plugged with wood which can be painted. There are no guarantees for results with retrofit construction. There are lots of factors that can affect the install, such as how much insulation is already present, if the existing insulation has saggedand moved, how accessible the area is, and if a working air barrier is still in place.