FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

“How much can I expect to save on my heating and cooling bills using cellulose insulation over standard insulation?”
We have information from several studies and would be glad to share them with you. One often quoted is from the Leominister Housing Authority where they state in their research that the cellulose insulated building utility bills were 32% lower in the cellulose insulated building or the University of Colorado research that showed cellulose to be 38% more efficient than standard insulation. That should equate conservatively to 20% -30% savings over conventional insulation.

Doesn’t paper mold?
Raw paper will, but cellulose insulation has been treated with borate acid, which gives it mold resistance. It passes all tests required for mold resistance.

What is the best sound insulation on the market?
Cellulose! The STC rating (sound transmission class) rating for cellulose is 44. Fiberglass is 40, foam is 37. Nothing is 36.

Is Cellulose toxic? Dusty?
No! The two additives in our cellulose insulation are a starch derivative and boric acid. Boric acid is less toxic than table salt and it is used in cosmetics and eyewash. Boric acid is also used for roach and termite control as it dehydrates those critters! What a great benefit to our insulation! The boric acid or borate is added for the mold and fire resistance. We spray our insulation with a little moisture to hold down the initial dust and with an adhesive to give it firmness. It is only classified as a nuisance dust for our workers. You will not see an increase of dust in your home.

I’m not sure what kind of insulation is in my attic or how much I have? Would someone come out and tell me?
We will come to your home or business free of charge at a time that is convenient for you. Our sales associates will make recommendations on how you can be more comfortable and cozy in your home and how you can save money on your heating and cooling bill.

I want to upgrade my insulation. Can I add cellulose insulation on top of my current insulation?
Yes, you can. Great way to use what you have!

What is R-value and how much R-value should I have in the attic?
R-value is the resistance of air to flow through the insulation. The greater the R-value, the greater insulating value. Cellulose has an R-Value of 3.8/inch, Fiberglass is 3.14/inch and foam is R-7/inch