Which Is the Better Attic Insulation: Blown or Rolled?

Ensuring that your home’s attic is properly insulated is important, especially if you live in an area like South Central Texas where the summer temperatures can be unforgiving. Having sufficient insulation installed in your attic can make a big difference in your monthly energy usage, as a cooler attic means a lighter workload for your home’s HVAC system. If you need to have insulation installed in your attic, you might be wondering whether blown-in or roll fiberglass insulation is the better choice.

Let’s look at both options:

Roll Fiberglass Insulation

Fiberglass has long been the go-to choice for most homeowners because it performs well and is inexpensive to install. Traditionally, fiberglass installation has come in rolls or batts that can be cut to fit any space and can be installed in walls and rafters. When cut properly, the snug fit of roll insulation helps stop airflow and heat transfer. Studies indicate that batt insulation can reduce the amount of energy required to heat and cool a home by as much as 50%.

Roll fiberglass insulation maintains its effectiveness because it doesn’t settle as much as some other types of insulation, and it’s naturally fire retardant. On the downside, fiberglass rolls, even when cut to exacting standards, tend to leave gaps where air can escape.

Blown-In Fiberglass Insulation

More recently, blown-in fiberglass insulation has become the more popular option, and for good reason. The main advantage of blown-in insulation is that it provides a level of coverage that roll fiberglass can’t achieve. All those hard-to-reach corners and gaps in the attic receive excellent coverage, creating an attic that is better insulated. Blown-in fiberglass insulation also maintains its level well, which means it doesn’t settle as fast as other types of insulation.

Does Your South Central Texas Home Need Insulation?

If your home’s energy bills are climbing steadily and you don’t know how to find relief, the home energy efficiency experts at Texas Pro Insulators can help. Since 1996, we’ve been helping homeowners in San Antonio and throughout South Central Texas fight back against rising energy costs. We offer blown-in fiberglass attic insulation that is formaldehyde- and carcinogen-free, hypoallergenic, and has a lifetime R-value guarantee.

However, blown-in insulation is just one step we’ll take to improve your home’s thermal performance. We offer The Perfect Attic System, which can provide homes with an up to 35% reduction in energy costs.

In addition to blown-in insulation, The Perfect Attic System includes:

• Attic air sealing – We’ll fill any small holes in your attic with expanding foam to eliminate air leaks.
• Reflective radiant barrier – This is installed on the attic roof and sidewalls and is 97% effective at reflecting heat away from your attic. This can lead to attic temperatures that are up to 50 degrees cooler.
• Attic ventilation – We’ll install any needed ridge vents and solar attic fans to help draw warm air out.
• A programmable thermostat – Using a programmable thermostat can help you manage your energy usage better.

Want to Learn More?

If your South Central Texas home would benefit from improved attic insulation, contact Texas Pro Insulators today to learn more about The Perfect Attic System.