Cotton Insulation: An Environment-Friendly Solution

Home insulation is an important aspect in construction of houses. Homes need to be insulated to decrease the flow of heat. Insulation also absorbs sound.

But like other parts and materials of the house, home insulation products have also been known to be ecologically questionable. As everyone is going green these days, here is a unique environment friendly solution for residents: cotton insulation. 

What is Cotton Insulation?

Where do all the strips of scrap from textiles go? They are cleaned, broken down into fibers and treated to be rolled into batts.

When denim jeans are manufactured, there is a large quantity of trim waste which is utilized in cotton insulation. Cotton is recyclable and renewable which makes it a great raw material for insulating homes. 

How it works? 

Insulation lends resistance to heat flow and all insulating materials are rated by their thermal resistance or R values.

The R value of cotton and fiberglass, which is used in conventional insulation, is more or less the same; though you can find fiberglass insulation of a higher R value. The R value of cotton is about 3 to 4 per inch.

Shreds of denim are treated with boric acid and rolled into batts to be layered onto walls. 

Benefits of Cotton 

Cotton is easily available and is recyclable too. It is one of the best options when looking for green materials as it can be replanted and harvested every year in a sustainable manner. Recycled textile scraps make for a good, cost-effective material for production as it requires less energy to produce.

Fiberglass, on the other hand, is made up of finely spun glass which is bound together. This can cause skin irritation. The fibers that it releases into air can cause serious respiratory problems too. Fiberglass contains formaldehyde which is known to be a carcinogen.

As the cotton strips are treated with boric acid they become flame retardant and repel insects as well. Cotton insulation does not emit any fumes or cause allergies. It is safe to handle and can be installed by homeowners on their own too. Cotton is safe to use even around children.

Cotton insulation also improves the structural integrity of your house as it is highly dense. High density allows it to fill out into the wall cavity well and keep out oxygen, which reduces the risk of fire spreading into wood walls. 

DIY Potential 

Cotton insulation is soft, safe, and is clearly easier than fiberglass for homeowners to install. Consumers can purchase cotton insulation and then just follow the manufacturer’s instructions so that the insulation is laid out in accordance of all fire and safety regulations that are applicable to homes.

Rolled denim batts can be layered onto ceilings and walls in alternate directions so they fit better and give high thermal resistance.

Although cotton insulation does cost a little higher than conventional fiberglass insulation, you cannot put a price on the safety and health of your family. Being an eco-friendly option, it also allows you to do your bit for the environment.