Since I bought my home, I’ve been adding eco-friendly upgrades — I installed energy-efficient windows, dual-flush toilets and low-flow showerheads, I used reclaimed wood for the flooring and the deck, and I’m thinking about solar panels for the roof. I know I need more insulation, too — can I reuse what I already have instead of throwing it out? — Jeff, Fresno
Excellent question, Jeff. Whether their concern is eco-friendliness or just plain wallet-friendliness, most Fresno homeowners want to get as much use as possible out of the insulation that’s already in their home, even if they’re adding a little extra on top. So can you reuse insulation? The answer varies depending on the insulation material your Fresno home has. Keep reading to learn more about two types of insulation that can be reused — cellulose and fiberglass.
Cellulose Insulation
For those who want to stay as environmentally friendly as possible, cellulose insulation is the ideal solution. When installed by professionals, it can often be completely recovered and reused on-site, leaving hardly any excess material to go to waste. Special machines used in the blown-in process allow extra material to be vacuumed up and blown back in on-site or salvaged for future installation.
Aside from being recyclable, cellulose insulation is beneficial for plenty of other reasons.
Cellulose insulation:
- Consists of up to 80-85% recycled material
- Takes less energy to make than other insulation materials
- Is made from consumer paper products, which are tied to responsible forestry management and a renewable resource of planted trees
While most insulation material will help you reduce your energy bills and maximize energy efficiency, cellulose is one of the most eco-friendly types of insulation.
Read additional information about cellulose by visiting the Cellulose Insulation Manufacturers Association.
Fiberglass Insulation
Fiberglass insulation can also be reused after the initial installation. When installed by professionals, it can be removed easily and put back in place. Fiberglass can also be reclaimed from demolition debris and recycled into a new product.
Although it’s not as environmentally friendly as cellulose, fiberglass insulation still contains a relatively high amount of recycled content and can help lower energy bills and maximize the comfort of your home.
Insulation Installation in the Visalia, CA Area
Broken Drum Insulation of Visalia installs both cellulose and fiberglass insulation and has experience insulating all areas of a home — the walls, attic and crawl space. Homeowners throughout the San Joaquin Valley, from Tulare to Visalia to Fresno, trust Broken Drum Insulation to keep their homes comfortable and energy-efficient.
Contact us to learn more about our insulation services or schedule an initial consultation!
