FAQs

Frequently Asked Questions About Cellulose Insulation

Do I have to take out the insulation that is already there?

Not necessarily. Adding more insulation has a cumulative impact on the overall R-value. In attics, if the insulation is damaged or has mold then yes it’s better to be removed, if not then no need to do so.

You can easily add cellulose insulation on top of the existing insulation, improving the overall quality and R-value.

In walls, it is possible for us to install additional insulation so it compresses the existing material (we do not have to remove existing insulation), completely filling the wall cavity with performance enhancing cellulose insulation.

What does R-value mean?

R-value is the measure of resistance a material has to heat flow, the higher the R-value, the greater the resistance.

How long does installation on an existing home take?

Installation time depends on the size of the home; usually it’s a one-day job. Even with bigger homes we will be able to insulate your home in just a couple of days, depending of course on the size of your home. Our professional crews are trained to treat your home with the utmost respect and care while causing you the least inconvenience possible.

Will insulating my home raise the resale value of my home?

Quite likely. A properly insulated home which is environmentally safe, fire resistant, and a continued high R value would be a valuable benefit in the future. And lower utility bills are always an attractive feature to a buyer.

Can Energy Assessments guarantee that a rating will save me money?

Simply put, no. Before a home is tested and analyzed there is simply no way to guarantee that there will be ways to improve the home's energy usage. What can be guaranteed is that the home will be thoroughly tested and evaluated, and based on those findings, a report listing cost-effective options for improving the home's energy rating will be provided to you.

However, please know that most homes - both new and old - usually have many ways to improve home energy efficiency and that a rating or assessment is cost-effective.

How much insulation do I need?

The U.S. Department of Energy recommends an R-value of R-49 for attics in Chicago and the Chicago suburbs.

What is the difference spray, fiberglass batts, and blown insulation?

Spray, fiberglass batts, and blown are the different forms that insulation comes in. Sprayed insulation is polyurethane foam, bats insulation is fiberglass, and blown insulation is cellulose. Batts insulation are sheets of insulation that get laid into your attic floor or walls. Blown insulation is fluffy and loose and gets blown into your attic or walls. Sprayed insulation can be spray into the attic or into your walls.

I don't have a lot of money. Where is the most important place to insulate?

If your entire house is not properly insulated, we recommend insulating your attic, floors, and walls. If money is an issue, the most important place to insulate is your attic. The most heat in the winter is lost through your attic. By insulating your attic, you will reduce the amount of heat lost and save money on your heating bill.

Will insulation provide any sound resistance or sound proofing?

Yes. Insulation has sound proofing qualities.