What Different Types Of Fiberglass Insulation Are Available?
We offer three different types of fiberglass insulation for use in your home: Faced, Unfaced, and Blown. Blown-in or loose-fill padding is made up of small particles that can form a barrier in almost any tight space. This type of insulation is ideal for retrofitting insulation to areas that have already been constructed or finished after the fact.
Faced and Unfaced fiberglass insulation are both available in rolls of various widths and length. The main difference between these two types of insulation is the vapor barrier. A vapor barrier is a material, such as kraft paper, that reduces water vapor’s ability to move through the insulation it is attached to. Faced insulation comes with a vapor barrier on one side, and unfaced insulation does not have a vapor barrier at all. Because of the added material, Faced insulation is usually slightly more expensive than unfaced. Climate is commonly the deciding factor between using faced or unfaced insulation. Faced insulation is most frequently used in walls, baseboards, floorboards, ceilings, and attics. In these areas, it can easily be stapled to joists and studs to secure it in place. Climate also makes a difference in the direction that faced insulation will need to be installed. In warmer climates, faced insulation should be installed with the vapor barrier facing the inside of the house. In cold weather, it should be facing the outside.
Faced insulation creates a moisture barrier that controls the amount of moisture that can collect on the walls, ceilings, and floors of your home. This is an important tool in the fight against mold and mildew. It is also easier to handle and attach during installation. However, the materials usually used in vapor barriers make faced insulation more combustible, so it should not be used near flames, heat sources, light fixtures, or other electrical devices. Faced insulation is also not ideal for adding more insulation in an area where older insulation is already present. If both the old and new insulation have vapor barriers, moisture could become trapped in between the layers and promote mold or mildew growth.
Unfaced insulation does not provide a vapor barrier, and is held in place by friction rather than being stapled. The lack of a vapor barrier makes it ideal for adding to existing insulation to avoid the possibility of moisture traps. It is also noncombustible, so it is safer for use in proximity to electrical and heat sources. It is harder to install because of its lack of face, and you may find it slightly more challenging to handle. Without the moisture barrier, it is more likely for mold and mildew to collect in your walls, baseboards, floorboards, and ceilings. If you choose to use unfaced insulation in an area that does not already have face insulation present, consider selecting another option of a vapor barrier. There are three different classes of vapor barriers, and faced insulation is only one of them. You can also use other materials such as plastic sheeting, glass, or sheet metal. You should consult with GA Foam Solutions about your vapor barrier options and about which type of fiberglass insulation is best for your needs. With various densities, widths, and lengths to accommodate any space, these products can be rolled and attached to any wall cavity or new construction project.