Cellulose Fibre Insulation

FAQs - Cellulose Fibre Insulation

What is cellulose fibre insulation, and how does it work?

Cellulose fibre insulation is an eco-friendly insulation material made primarily from recycled paper products, such as newsprint. The paper is treated with non-toxic fire retardants to make it safe and resistant to pests, mold, and mildew. The insulation works by creating a dense, protective layer within your ceiling that slows down the transfer of heat, keeping your home cooler in the summer and warmer in the winter. ✓

What are the benefits of using cellulose fibre insulation?

Cellulose fibre insulation offers several benefits:

  • Eco-Friendly: Made from recycled materials, it has a lower environmental impact.
  • Highest Thermal Efficiency: Effectively reduces heat transfer, improving your home's energy efficiency.
  • Soundproofing: Provides excellent sound insulation due to its dense structure.
  • Fire Resistant: Treated with fire retardants, making it safer compared to other materials.
  • Non-Toxic: Contains no harmful chemicals, making it safe for your home and family.
  • 100% biodegradable.
Is cellulose fibre insulation safe for my family?

Yes, cellulose fibre insulation is safe as it is made from natural materials and treated with non-toxic chemicals. Unlike fiberglass, it does not contain irritants that can cause respiratory issues or skin irritation. It also meets fire safety standards, making it a secure option for homes. During installation you & your family are more than welcome to be present & enjoy the experience. There is also no need to remove your fury family & there is no off cuts & is not harmful to your loved ones.

Why should I choose cellulose fibre insulation over other types?

Cellulose fibre insulation is preferred for its superior thermal performance, soundproofing, and eco-friendly credentials. It’s highly efficient in reducing energy costs and offers a sustainable solution by recycling wastepaper. Additionally, it’s safer to handle compared to traditional fiberglass and less expensive than some alternatives like spray foam. Eco- insulation is the only insulation company that issues a roof compliance certificate.

How is cellulose fibre insulation installed?

Cellulose fibre insulation is installed by blowing the material into the ceiling cavity using specialized equipment. The material is distributed evenly to create a thick, continuous layer that fills gaps and covers all areas effectively. This method ensures a seamless installation that maximizes thermal efficiency and minimizes heat loss in winter & assist with cooling in summer.

Can cellulose fibre insulation be used in different types of homes?

Yes, cellulose fibre insulation is versatile and suitable for various home types, including:

    • Freestanding Houses: Installed in the roof space to insulate the entire home.
    • Townhouses and Duplexes: Applied to individual units without affecting neighbours.
    • Flats and Apartments: Used in ceiling voids, provided access is available.
    • Heritage Homes: Non-invasive and can be installed without altering the structure.
    • Inside Dry walling: to assist with thermal quality & sound dampening.
What maintenance does cellulose fibre insulation require?

Cellulose fibre insulation requires minimal maintenance once installed. However, it’s a good idea to inspect your insulation every few years, especially after roof repairs or leaks, to ensure it hasn’t been displaced. Cellulose is resistant to mold and pests, but any water damage should be addressed promptly to maintain effectiveness. Eco- Insulation is happy to do any maintenance or inspections.

Can I install cellulose fibre insulation myself?

Installing cellulose fibre insulation is best left to professionals due to the need for specialized blowing equipment and the expertise required to ensure even coverage. Improper installation can result in uneven insulation, reducing its effectiveness and energy-saving benefits. We are the only insulation company in SA to issue an insulation certificate.

Does cellulose fibre insulation help with soundproofing?

Yes, cellulose fibre insulation provides excellent soundproofing properties. Its dense structure absorbs sound, making it ideal for reducing noise from outside as well as between rooms, enhancing the overall comfort and quietness of your home & office.

How long does cellulose fibre insulation last?

Cellulose fibre insulation is highly durable and can last up to 20-30 years with minimal maintenance. It does not deteriorate significantly over time, maintaining its insulating properties for decades if kept dry and undisturbed. ✓

What are the environmental benefits of cellulose fibre insulation?
  • Cellulose insulation is primarily made from 85% recycled newspaper and currently has the highest level of recycled content in the building insulation industry.
  • It is also important to consider the amount of energy and water that goes into manufacturing and producing a product like this, as that too impacts the environment in many ways.
  • Cellulose Fibre does not use any water in the manufacturing process.
  • Of leading insulation products, cellulose insulation currently has the lowest embodied energy which is the amount of potentially negative impact a product has on the environment.
  • Cellulose fibre is made locally meaning minimal to no shipping resulting in lower fuel emissions.
  • Cellulose fibre is 100% biodegradable & breaks down naturally without releasing harmful microplastics into the environment.
  • Reduction of greenhouse gas emissions through diverting waste newspaper from landfills.
  • Improved comfort through a passive method of temperature control, resulting in lower usage of electricity such as fans, cooling systems, heaters etc. Reduces greenhouse gas emissions by reducing the energy demand of a home.
  • Non- toxic and non- irritant and can be handled safely.
Can cellulose fibre insulation help with moisture control?

While cellulose fibre insulation is treated to resist mold and mildew, it is not a vapor barrier. Proper roof ventilation and moisture control measures should be in place to prevent condensation in the roof space, which could affect insulation performance.

Is cellulose fibre insulation resistant to pests?

Yes, cellulose fibre is treated with borate, which is a natural pest repellent. This treatment helps deter rodents, insects, and other pests, making it a preferred choice for keeping your home insulated and pest-free.

Is cellulose fibre insulation fire-resistant?

Yes, cellulose fibre insulation is treated with fire-retardant chemicals that help prevent it from catching fire easily. It has a high fire safety rating and meets South African standards for fire resistance in building materials, adding an extra layer of protection to your home.

Are there any health risks associated with cellulose fibre insulation?

Cellulose fibre insulation is considered safe for health as it does not release harmful fibres or chemicals. Unlike fiberglass, it doesn’t cause skin or respiratory irritation, making it a safer option for both installers and homeowners.

How thick should cellulose fibre insulation be to meet South African regulations?

To comply with SANS 10400-XA regulations, the recommended R-value for ceiling insulation varies by region, but generally, cellulose fibre should be installed at a thickness of 150mm to 200mm, achieving an R-value of around 3.7 to 4.0, depending on your climate zone.

What are the environmental benefits of cellulose fibre insulation?

Cellulose fibre insulation is highly sustainable, made from recycled paper, and offers excellent soundproofing and thermal performance. It’s safe to handle, has fire-resistant properties, and can be installed in existing homes without major alterations.

Does cellulose fibre insulation support mold growth?

Cellulose fibre is treated with borate, which makes it resistant to mold and mildew. However, if insulation becomes saturated with water due to leaks or condensation, mold could develop. Proper ventilation and addressing any moisture issues promptly are key to maintaining a healthy insulation system.

Are there any warranties or guarantees for cellulose fibre insulation?

Most professional insulation installers offer warranties on their work, and cellulose fibre products often come with manufacturer guarantees for quality and performance. Warranties typically cover material defects and installation issues, ensuring peace of mind for homeowners.

What is the fire rating of cellulose fibre insulation?

Cellulose fibre insulation is treated with fire retardants that give it a Class 1 fire rating, meaning it has low flame spread and smoke development characteristics. This rating makes it a safe option for homes, offering additional fire protection compared to some other insulation types.

Does cellulose fibre insulation settle over time?

Cellulose fibre insulation can settle slightly over time, but proper installation techniques help minimize this effect. Any settling is usually minor and does not significantly impact the insulation’s thermal performance.

How has cellulose fibre insulation been tested to prove it solves energy efficiency problems?

Cellulose fibre insulation has undergone extensive testing and research to prove its effectiveness in improving energy efficiency and solving common insulation challenges. Here's how it has been tested:

  1. Thermal Performance Testing:
    • Cellulose fibre insulation is tested in controlled environments to measure its R-value, which indicates its ability to resist heat flow. These tests consistently show that cellulose provides high thermal resistance, making it highly effective in reducing heat loss during winter and heat gain during summer.
    • Studies comparing cellulose insulation with other materials, like fiberglass and mineral wool, often highlight its superior thermal performance, especially in filling gaps and creating a seamless thermal barrier.
  2. Blower Door Tests and Infrared Scanning:
    • Blower door tests, which assess a building's airtightness, have shown that homes insulated with cellulose fibre have fewer air leaks compared to those using other types of insulation. Infrared scanning confirms that cellulose effectively seals cracks and gaps, preventing unwanted air infiltration and heat transfer.
    • These tests demonstrate that cellulose insulation contributes significantly to reducing overall energy consumption, as less heated or cooled air escapes the home.
  3. Energy Efficiency Studies:
    • Real-world studies and energy audits of homes insulated with cellulose fibre show marked reductions in heating and cooling costs. These studies often compare energy bills before and after cellulose installation, proving that it can significantly cut energy usage and costs.
    • In some cases, cellulose insulation has been shown to reduce heating and cooling costs by up to 30%, depending on the climate and the specific building envelope.
  4. Environmental and Fire Safety Testing:
    • Beyond thermal performance, cellulose fibre insulation is treated with non-toxic fire retardants and tested for fire resistance. It has a high fire safety rating, meaning it can slow the spread of flames, adding another layer of protection while maintaining energy efficiency.
    • Environmental testing shows that cellulose has a low embodied energy compared to other insulation materials, further supporting its role in enhancing a building’s overall sustainability and energy efficiency.
  5. Long-Term Durability Assessments:
    • Long-term performance studies of cellulose insulation reveal that it retains its insulating properties over decades without significant settling or degradation, especially when installed correctly. This durability contributes to sustained energy savings over the life of a building.

These tests and studies collectively prove that cellulose fibre insulation is a reliable, efficient, and environmentally friendly solution to energy efficiency problems, making it a preferred choice for homeowners and builders looking to enhance thermal performance.

Can I use cellulose fibre insulation in my wall or floor?

No. Cellulose Fibre Insulation is not designed to be used in walls and should not be compressed (squashed). Compressing Cellulose Fibre Insulation will reduce the thermal performance (R-Value) of the product and could potentially cause future issues, as the products are designed to recover to their specified thickness.

What is the acoustic performance of cellulose fibre insulation?

Cellulose Fibre Insulation will provide some acoustic performance, as the insulation comes with inherent sound absorbing properties.