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Fiberglass or spray foam? That’s the question that many homeowners struggle with when trying to choose the best insulator for their home.
Both fiberglass and spray foam insulation have their advantages and are effective insulators when installed by Pittsburgh insulation companies. To determine which one is best for you, let’s look at both.
Fiberglass
About 85% of homes today have fiberglass insulation. It’s an inexpensive, effective insulator made of delicate fibers of glass and other recycled materials. An aluminum foil or paper backing holds the glass fibers together.
Fiberglass usually comes in two different forms – batts, which look like a blanket of cotton candy, or loose-fill, which gets blown into an attic with large blowers. Batts are more popular with homeowners because they are easy to handle and cover a lot of space. They usually fit perfectly in between studs and attic walls.
However, if a batt isn’t cut exactly to size, air can flow through gaps and eventually show up on your heating bill.
Loose-fill fiberglass is ideal for filling in tight corners or around obstructions like pipes and wiring.
Under ideal conditions, fiberglass insulation can last 100 years.
Spray Foam Insulation
Spray foam insulation is a liquid chemical that, once sprayed, expands to seal cracks and crevices where air might pass through. The spray foam comes in two types – open-cell, which is flexible, and closed-cell, which is rigid and dense.
This insulation is excellent for putting a tight seal on the nooks and crannies of your attic to prevent air leaks and keep out bugs and rodents.
Although spray foam only lasts for about 80 years and is more expensive than fiberglass, it typically has higher R-values, which means it is more effective in blocking airflow.
When it comes down to it, consider which material will give you the best value for your money in the long run.
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