Recycled Paper Insulation​

While most homeowners don’t realize it, more than half the energy they produce is lost through heat transfer. The culprit? Ineffective or poor insulation in their homes. Luckily, there’s a way to keep your house perfectly energy-efficient while being kind to the planet: recycled paper insulation. 

This smart solution doesn’t just cut down on hefty bills but is also a sustainable solution for eco-conscious homeowners. Let’s explore why recycled paper insulation is the perfect alternative to traditional insulation! 

What is Recycled Paper Insulation? 

Also known as cellulose insulation, recycled paper insulation is made from recycled paper, which makes it the most eco-friendly option out there. Material for this type of insulation is often sourced from newspapers, office paper, and other discarded paper products. The paper is treated with boric acid to become fire and pest-resistant. 

Afterward, the paper fibers are broken down to create a material that can be sprayed on walls, attics, or floors for insulation purposes. Sometimes, an adhesive might also be added to help the material cling together effectively. 

Last year, the paper production capacity of the US was around 73.96 million metric tons. This makes recycled paper insulation a viable solution for modern US homes today. 

How Is It Installed? 

The next big question is— how is recycled paper insulation installed to transform your house into an eco-friendly zone? Well, there are two forms to do so, including: 

Loose-fill 

Loose-fill paper insulation is most commonly used in attics or spaces where the insulation can perfectly settle in the roof cavities. It’s simply blown into the target areas using a blowing machine, hence the name ‘blown-in.’ 

Dense-packed 

Perfect for walls and ceilings, the dense-packed insulation method is great for new construction as well as for retrofitting older holmes. This requires a high-pressure blower so the insulation is secure and no air pockets are left. 

Benefits & Drawbacks of Recycled Paper Insulation 

What’s a better way to put your eco-friendly paper to work than to have it serve you? But like any other building material, recycled paper insulation has its fair share of ups and downs. Here’s a quick look at both sides of the process: 

Benefits

On the plus side, recycled paper insulation is 100% eco-friendly, which means that you can use up the discarded papers that would otherwise rest in landfills. Another benefit is that it has a high R-value, which means that no matter the time of the year, this insulation will save you energy (tons of it). Plus, it’s non-toxic and free from harmful chemicals, so it’s a win-win. 

Drawbacks 

One of the main concerns of recycled paper insulation is the sensitivity to moisture. If installed incorrectly, it paves the way for mold or mildew issues. Oftentimes, the settling of this insulation might also reduce its effectiveness. But you can always re-do it to save yourself the hassle! 

Is Recycled Paper Insulation Safe For Your Home? 

The good news is that cellulose insulation is pretty safe for your home. It’s primarily made from recycled paper products, all of which are treated with non-toxic chemicals like borate or ammonium sulfate to become pest and fire-resistant. Unlike fiberglass, which irritates the skin and causes breathing problems, recycled paper doesn’t release any toxic particles into the air. 

Better yet, recycled paper insulation helps reduce noise, even if this wasn’t the primary benefit you sought. Plus, it keeps your home warm in winter and cool during summer. The result? Lower bills and a friendly gesture towards the environment! 

Final Thoughts 

In a nutshell, when done right, recycled paper insulation​ is a fantastic way to insulate your homes while remaining eco-friendly. Whether you’re building a new home or re-doing insulation for the current one, this option is definitely worth the shot! 

Check out PaperPapers for a vast collection of eco-friendly papers, so you can welcome a more sustainable you with your new sustainable home!