Blanket and Batt Insulation
Fiberglass, cotton, and mineral wool batts provide good, basic insulation. Standard construction techniques are compatible with pre-cut components. Compression does not hinder performance as much as popularly believed, but it does necessitate extra attention when fitting around pipes and wiring.
When a “building envelope" is insulated with fiberglass batt insulation or spray foam insulation it provides interior comfort, reduced energy use, and savings on utilities.
Fiberglass batt insulation comes in pre-cut standard sizes, making it simple to install into wall studs, attic rafters, and ceiling joists. Custom-cut batts can be used to insulate irregularly sized spaces. Both the goods and the installation are reasonably priced, especially when compared to spray foam alternatives. You should also think about air sealing to ensure that you get the most out of your system. A single component foam, 'flash and batt' technique, strategic use of polyethylene sheets and caulking, or fluid-applied air sealing can all be used to achieve this. If the structure is brand new, there are more choices for increasing its efficiency. With fiberglass batt insulation, installing a high-density product can provide much better energy efficiency when space is limited. With the right installation technique, fiberglass batts also do their part in keeping your home cool during the summer and warm during the winter
Blanket insulation is made up of flexible fibers, the most common of which is fiberglass. Batts and rolls composed of mineral (rock and slag) wool, plastic fibers, and natural fibers like cotton and sheep's wool are also available.
They come in two variations: with or without facings. A face (such as kraft paper, foil-kraft paper, or vinyl) is frequently used as a vapour and/or air barrier by manufacturers. For basement walls and other places where the insulation will be exposed, batts with a particular flame-resistant face are available in various thicknesses. A facing also aids in handling and fastening during the installation process.
Pros:
- Fiberglass insulation is both cost-effective and efficient.
- Fiberglass is a non-shrinkable material.
- To avoid concerns with breathing the fibers, most manufacturers deliver the material in sealed batts wrapped with plastic film (perforated polyethylene or polypropylene, especially).
- Fiberglass batts have a plastic covering that act as a vapour barrier.
- Fiberglass insulation is non-combustible.
- Some fiberglass insulation is made from recycled glass, which has a lower environmental impact.
- Fiberglass insulation comes in two densities: medium and high (roughly R-11 and R-15 for a standard 2-by-4 wall).
- Fiberglass insulation is not eaten by insects (or rather, it is not nutritive to them, so they have no reason to nibble).
- Inside wall cavities, blown fiberglass surrounds everything, giving a more constant layer of insulation.
Cons:
- Glass fibers can irritate the lungs, eyes, and skin, causing respiratory problems.
- Poor installation approach degrades performance (rips, tears, and open spaces).
- Heat transfer through structural elements is conceivable.
References:
Craig G. Pros and Cons of the Most Commonly Used Types of Residential Insulation. Family handyman. Retrieved from: https://www.familyhandyman.com/list/pros-and-cons-of-the-residential-insulation/
Fiberglass Insulation Pros and Cons. Solar365. Retrieved from: http://www.solar365.com/green-homes/insulation/fiberglass-insulation-pros-cons
Types of Insulation. Energy Saver. Retrieved from: https://www.energy.gov/energysaver/types-insulation
