3 Reasons To Choose Cellulose Insulation Over Fiberglass

Hey, what’s up everybody? It’s TJ with Sanctified Homes and Construction, and today we’re talking about a hot topic in home insulation: why dense-pack cellulose insulation is a better choice than fiberglass. If you’re building a new home or upgrading your insulation, understanding the differences can save you money and improve your home’s comfort. Here are the top three reasons we recommend cellulose insulation.

1. Better Cost Efficiency Over Time

When comparing fiberglass batts to dense-pack cellulose, the initial installation cost for cellulose may be slightly higher. However, this difference pays for itself within two heating seasons.
Here’s why:

• Higher R-Value: Dense-pack cellulose offers better thermal performance per inch, meaning it keeps your home warmer in winter and cooler in summer.

• Energy Savings: Because cellulose is denser and minimizes air leaks, it significantly reduces heating and cooling costs.
  In the long run, cellulose insulation outperforms fiberglass, making it a smarter investment for homeowners who want to save on energy bills.

2. Superior Fire Resistance

Safety is another area where cellulose insulation outshines fiberglass. While fiberglass can melt or even burn under extreme heat, cellulose is treated with a fire retardant that makes it far more resistant to flames.
Here’s what makes it stand out:

• Fire-Tested: According to our insulation contractor, cellulose can withstand enough heat to melt a penny before it would catch fire.

• Peace of Mind: Whether you’re building a custom home or remodeling, knowing that your insulation adds an extra layer of fire protection is invaluable.
  If you’ve seen our videos on Rockwool insulation, you know we love fire-resistant materials, and cellulose insulation offers similar peace of mind in a blown-in application.

3. Reliable R-Value Retention in Cold Climates

Insulation performance isn’t just about the numbers—it’s also about how well it holds up in real-world conditions. Cellulose insulation excels in cold climates, retaining its R-value better than fiberglass.
Here’s why that matters:

• Cold Climate Testing: Unlike fiberglass, which is often tested in milder conditions, cellulose is tested in extreme cold, such as in Canada. These tests prove that cellulose maintains its insulating properties even when temperatures plummet.

• Density Makes a Difference: The compact structure of dense-pack cellulose reduces airflow through the insulation, preventing heat loss more effectively than fiberglass.
  In Wisconsin’s frigid winters, cellulose insulation provides superior comfort and efficiency, making it an excellent choice for energy-conscious homeowners.

Additional Considerations

While cellulose insulation is a great choice, every home is unique, and budgets often influence decisions. That’s why it’s important to:

• Ask Your Contractor Questions: Make sure your builder explains the pros and cons of each insulation option.

• Understand the Details: Many builders default to installing R-19 fiberglass batts without discussing alternatives. Don’t let that happen—demand better options.

Final Thoughts

At our Bushel Hill Haven project, we’ve chosen dense-pack cellulose insulation for all the reasons listed above. The team is preparing for drywall this week, and we’re excited to see the results of this high-performance insulation system.
Whether you’re building a new home or upgrading an existing one, cellulose insulation offers better energy efficiency, fire resistance, and long-term performance than fiberglass.

Have questions about insulation options or want to learn more about our projects? Leave a comment or reach out! And don’t forget to like, subscribe, and share—we appreciate the feedback and love hearing from you.
In the meantime, don’t forget to raise your standard!