Cellulose Insulation

Cellulose insulation is a loose-fill or dense-packed thermal insulation material made primarily from recycled paper, chiefly shredded newsprint, treated with fire-retardant and pest-resistant chemicals such as borates. Its modern form dates to the 1950s, with growth accelerating after the 1970s energy crisis increased demand for retrofit insulation, and it is typically installed by blowing it into attics, wall cavities and floor spaces using specialized equipment, filling irregular spaces more completely than rigid board insulation can. Its use of recycled paper content and comparatively low embodied energy relative to some synthetic insulation products has made it a common choice among builders prioritizing recycled material content, though like other fibrous insulation it loses effectiveness if it becomes compacted or wet.