Cellulose Vs. Fiberglass by the University of Colorado
In a two-month study at the University of Colorado School of Architecture and Planning, researchers compared the energy conservation efficiency of two test buildings. In one building cellulose insulation was installed in the attic and walls. In the second building fiberglass was also installed in the attic and walls. Here are the results:
Cellulose achieved a tighter building cavity and cut air infiltration by at least 30% more than fiberglass.
When the heat was turned off at night, over a 9 hour period, the cellulose insulated building retained 7 degrees more heat than the fiberglass insulated building.
It was estimated that in the temperate climates a cellulose insulated building would require about 26% less energy to heat than a fiberglass insulated building. It was further concluded that the energy benefit would become even more significant in severe climates. Cellulose blown-in insulation reduces air leakage more effectively than fiberglass batting or fiberglass blown-in insulation. Conclusion:
It was estimated that in the temperate climates a cellulose insulated building would require about 26% less energy to heat than a fiberglass insulated building. It was further concluded that the energy benefit would become even more significant in severe climates. Cellulose blown-in insulation reduces air leakage more effectively than fiberglass batting or fiberglass blown-in insulation. Conclusion:
Homes insulated with cellulose insulation require considerably less energy to heat and cool then homes insulated with fiberglass. Cellulose is the better insulation.
The Big Burn: The Truth About Cellulose Insulation
"The Big Burn Demonstration" shows that fire-treated cellulose insulation can provide over 50% more fire resistance than traditional fiberglass insulation. Sponsored by GreenFiber cellulose insulation.
