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Investing in energy efficiency is something worth considering. With winter right around the corner, the thought of insulation is ringing in most homeowners’ heads. Out of the many insulation solutions, fiberglass insulation is often a popular, eco-friendly solution that works to insulate walls, attics, roofs, ceilings, and basements and your entire home, really. But, with new insulation technologies, is fiberglass still worth it?
Read on to learn more about fiberglass insulation to determine if it’s worth it for your home or not.
What Is Fiberglass Insulation?
Fiberglass is an insulation material composed mainly of glass. However, fiberglass can also be used in the manufacturing of different products, including automobiles. As an insulator, fiberglass works to trap air and slow the transfer of heat.
In most cases, fiberglass comes in a blanket form (called batts), but it’s also available as loose-fill. These fiberglass batts are available in different thicknesses that determine the resistance to heat flow. This heat resistance is measured by the R-value, which ranges from R11 to R19 for walls and can go as high as R30 for ceilings and attics.
Cost to Install Fiberglass Insulation
The cost for installation will vary according to the house’s location, the amount of labor necessary and various other factors. However, the average cost to install fiberglass insulation starts at $0.88 to $1.64 per square foot. You can expect to pay between $300 and $600 for a 500 square foot section of your home, including the cost of labor.
Unlike other home improvement projects, installing fiberglass insulation is not extremely difficult. Many homeowners will take on the project themselves. However, keep in mind that poor installation is one of the most common downsides of insulation. Regardless, you can expect to pay anywhere between $25 and $50 per hour of labor.
Pros of Fiberglass Insulation
Fiberglass insulation is relatively quick and easy to install, mainly if you’re working with professionals. It’s also one of the most affordable ways of insulating a home, which is why it’s such a popular option. Here are some of the advantages of insulating your home with fiberglass:
Flexibility: Fiberglass is available in pre-cut panels, rolls and loose-fill, making it incredibly flexible for installation. It can be placed between rafters, joists, blocks, studs, and any surface that needs insulation. Its flexibility makes fiberglass a very affordable option, particularly compared to similar insulation materials like spray foam.
Energy Efficient: On average, fiberglass insulation can help reduce heating and cooling bills by 40% to 50%. In addition to energy savings, fiberglass insulation can also help with noise reduction. Although fiberglass has a satisfactory R-value if it’s not professionally installed, it can lose thermal protection over time.
Fire Retardant: Made from recycled glass and sand, fiberglass is a natural fire retardant that poses little to no fire hazard. There’s also fiberglass material that’s treated with a fire retardant to improve …….
Source: https://www.forbes.com/advisor/home-improvement/what-is-fiberglass-insulation/