Blown In Insulation

Blown-in Insulation, also known as BIBS (Blow-In-Blanket System) insulation or loose fill insulation, is a unique method of air-injecting insulation behind mesh liners to prevent settling in the walls and ceilings. It is often used to insulate already existing homes or buildings that have no previous insulation, or where additional insulation is needed to insure greater quality for structures overall. Made up of loose particles which are blown into an attic or wall cavities, installation is usually done by a professional, as it requires special pneumatic equipment, and even distribution of the material is essential.

Three basic types of blown-in insulation are most commonly available: wool, fiberglass and cellulose insulation. Mineral wool insulation is made from rock or steel slag particles that come from recycled manufacturing waste. Fiberglass insulation is made up of small particles of spun glass fibers, and Cellulose insulation comes from recycled cardboard or newspapers. After chemical treatment, cellulose insulation is resistant to both flame and insects.

Blown-in insulation has been known to reduce air infiltration up to 68% as opposed to the normal insulation batt system, and can give you higher R-values, supreme sound control, and a level five Flame Spread (Nonflammable/Noncombustible). R-values are based on the type, thickness and density of the material being used, and are one of the most important qualities to note when choosing insulation. Measuring thickness with a ruler, R-value is an indication of thermal resistance. Insulation with a higher R-value will perform better, and have a greater ability to resist heat transfer than those with a lower rating.

The R-value for blown insulation will depend on a number of different factors, including the type, thickness, and density of the material being used, as well as how much is blown in. Two R-values measure the quality of blown insulation--the first representing its value at installation, and the second representing a lower value after the material has settled over time.

Aside from being fairly economical, blown-in insulation is often much easier to install in hard-to-reach places, working well around stove vents, chimneys, and other obstacles. Made with at least 25% or more recycled content than other insulation systems, blown-in insulation is environmentally friendly. With applications of Retro-Fit, New Construction, Wood Frame, Steel Frame, Residential, and Commercial, the blown-in insulation system is essentially limitless.

Don't settle for second best--get the insulation that literally "doesn't settle" and go with BIBS.