Table of Contents
1. Introduction: Why Upgrade Your Attic Insulation?
2. Benefits of Attic Insulation with CertainTeed InsulSafe SP
3. Comparing CertainTeed InsulSafe SP and Owens Corning AttiCat Blown Insulation
4. How to Install CertainTeed InsulSafe SP for Maximum Efficiency
5. Q&A
6. Conclusion: Invest in Attic Insulation and Reap the Rewards
Introduction: Why Upgrade Your Attic Insulation?
Are sky-high energy bills and inconsistent room temperatures driving you up the walls? Upgrading your attic insulation can transform your home’s comfort and slash utility costs. By revamping your attic with advanced blown-in products like CertainTeed InsulSafe SP and Owens Corning AttiCat, you create a reliable thermal barrier that keeps warm air in during winter and out during summer. In this guide, we’ll explore how the right attic insulation boosts performance, protects your investment, and improves indoor comfort.
Benefits of Attic Insulation with CertainTeed InsulSafe SP
1. Superior Thermal Performance
• High R-Value: InsulSafe SP delivers excellent R-values per inch, slowing heat transfer and stabilizing indoor temperatures.
• Even Coverage: Loose-fill fiberglass expands to fill gaps around wiring, pipes, and irregular joists—no cold spots.
2. Enhanced Sound Control
• Noise Reduction: Fiberglass fibers absorb sound waves, quieting street traffic, neighborhood noise, and mechanical vibrations.
• Better Indoor Acoustics: Enjoy peaceful bedrooms, home offices, and living spaces free from echo and external disturbances.
3. Healthier Indoor Air Quality
• Formaldehyde-Free: Certified for low chemical emissions by GREENGUARD, InsulSafe SP won’t release harmful VOCs into your home.
• Mold & Mildew Resistance: Non-combustible and inorganic, it resists moisture-borne fungi for a healthier attic environment.
4. Sustainability & Safety
• Made from Recycled Glass: Reduce landfill waste and lower embodied carbon by choosing insulation with recycled content.
• Fire-Resistant: Won’t fuel flames—an important safety feature in both residential and commercial applications.
5. Easy, Cost-Effective Installation
• Blown-In Efficiency: A single machine delivers uniform coverage in attics, walls, and crawl spaces, cutting labor time and costs.
• Versatile Applications: Ideal for new construction or retrofit projects, InsulSafe SP adapts to any cavity or ceiling configuration.
Comparing CertainTeed InsulSafe SP and Owens Corning AttiCat Blown Insulation
Feature
• R-Value: AttiCat slightly edges out InsulSafe SP in insulation value per inch, offering marginally better thermal resistance.
• Gap-Filling: Both products expand to seal voids, but AttiCat’s patented PINK® Fiberglas® technology delivers exceptional adherence and coverage.
• Noise Control: Dense fiberglass fibers in both brands absorb sound, though many contractors report AttiCat feels denser on installation.
• Environmental Impact: Each uses recycled glass, but InsulSafe SP boasts GREENGUARD certification and zero added formaldehyde.
• Installation Speed: Comparable installation processes—both are blown-in. Availability of local installers may sway your choice.
• Cost Considerations: Prices vary by region and project size. Consult local insulation professionals for accurate estimates.
How to Install CertainTeed InsulSafe SP for Maximum Efficiency
1. Prepare the Space
• Clear Debris: Remove old insulation, animal droppings, and loose debris.
• Seal Air Leaks: Caulk gaps around chimneys, vents, and wiring penetrations before insulating.
• Safety First: Wear a respirator, gloves, and protective eyewear.
2. Set Up Blowing Equipment
• Machine & Hopper: Position the blower outside the attic and feed the hose through a hatch or gable vent.
• Calibration: Consult the technical data sheet to set the machine’s density output for your climate zone and desired R-value.
3. Apply Insulation
• Bottom-Up Approach: Start at the farthest corner and work toward the exit point.
• Consistent Motion: Move the hose steadily in overlapping passes to ensure uniform depth and prevent settling.
• Monitor Depth: Use depth markers on joists to achieve the recommended insulation thickness.
4. Final Inspection
• Fill Voids: Hand-tamp or use a smaller nozzle to target hard-to-reach crevices.
• Check Coverage: Walk the attic floor, looking for low spots or thin areas. Add insulation as needed.
• Clean Up: Remove equipment and vacuum excess fibers from walkways and the entry hatch.
Q&A
Q1: What makes blown-in attic insulation more effective than batts?
A1: Blown-in insulation conforms to irregular spaces, seals small gaps, and avoids compression—unlike batts, which can leave thermal bridges.
Q2: How much attic insulation do I need?
A2: The U.S. Department of Energy recommends R-38 to R-60 for attics in most climate zones. Always verify local building code requirements.
Q3: Can I install blown-in insulation myself?
A3: Yes, with proper safety gear and rented equipment. However, professional installers ensure correct density, coverage, and warranty compliance.
Conclusion: Invest in Attic Insulation and Reap the Rewards
Upgrading your attic insulation with CertainTeed InsulSafe SP or Owens Corning AttiCat blown insulation is one of the most cost-effective home improvements you can make. Quality attic insulation reduces energy bills, enhances comfort, and extends the life of your HVAC system—all while boosting your home’s value and sustainability. Insulate with confidence and transform your attic into a high-performance, energy-saving powerhouse.
