The thermal resistance of insulation is measured by R-value. R-value measures the ability of insulation material to resist heat transfer at a specified thickness. Products with a higher R-value can produce the greatest energy savings when properly installed. Cellulose insulation has a higher R-value per unit thickness than most comparable mineral fiber insulation material including fiberglass. In the winter of 1989-90 the University of Colorado School of Architecture and Planning tested the performance of both cellulose insulation and fiberglass in a real world setting.
Cellulose insulation provides better protection from air infiltration than traditional fiberglass.
Air infiltration occurs when air leaks through gaps in the insulation. The manner of installation also effects the performance of the insulation. Cellulose insulation is usually blown directly into attic ceilings, walls and floors, while fiberglass is generally sold in rolls. Blowing the insulation allows it to reach nooks and crannies that would otherwise go uninsulated. Benefits Cellulose insulation also provides several environmental benefits including the reduction of solid waste and the conservation of fuel due to it's low embodied energy.