Frequently Asked Questions

What is blown-in cellulose insulation?

Blown-in cellulose is a type of insulation that’s made from recycled paper such as newspaper, cardboard, and office paper, that’s treated with boric acid. It requires special equipment to install.

Is blown-in cellulose insulation safe?

Yes! Unlike other types of insulation, it does not contain toxic chemicals (like spray foam) or glass fibers (like fiberglass) which can be harmful to your health.

Why should I choose cellulose over fiberglass or spray foam insulation? What are the benefits of blown-in cellulose?

  • Cellulose is THE eco-friendly insulation option for your home.

  • It is fire-retardant, mold-resistant, and pest-resistant.

  • It offers more R-value per inch than fiberglass and it is a fraction of the cost of spray foam insulation.

  • The installation process is much safer than with fiberglass and spray foam insulation.

How much R-value/insulation does my home need?

R-value is the term used to describe how well insulation restricts heat flow. The higher the R-value, the slower the rate of heat transfer. This is important for keeping your house cool in the summer and warm in the winter.

For New Brunswick’s climate, the recommended minimum R-value that your attic should have is R-50. That means you need a minimum of 15 inches of blown-in cellulose at the time of installation. Check out the chart below for reference:

Chart source: Weathershield Insulation

How long does it take to blow in insulation? To remove?

The average-sized home can be blown in within a few hours. Removal, air sealing, and re-installation are typically a 2-day process. A roomier attic with lots of space to move around in takes less time than a more cramped attic space.

How messy is it?

Blowing in cellulose is a messy job. But, because we pride ourselves on our customer service and professionalism, we take every precaution to keep your home clean and tidy. We leave your house in the same condition as when we entered.

  • We place blankets on your window sill (where the hose enters your home), and along the hose’s path between the window and the attic hatch.

  • Floor runners are put down.

  • Tarps are used to cover and protect your furniture and belongings.

  • We tape plastic around the attic hatch so the cellulose doesn’t fall out and go flying around the room.

  • When we’re done our work, we clean up and vacuum our work areas before leaving your home.

blown-in cellulose application chart