FAQ
What Tax Credits are available?
The tax law is constantly changing so for the latest information visit http://www.energystar.gov or www.irs.gov.
Are there incentives available from my local utility company?
Local utility companies, especially ones generating the power from coal-fired plants, are being encouraged by various federal and state initiatives to support consumers and businesses to implement energy saving programs. Check with your local utility company’s website or local office to find out what incentives are available in your area.
What do I need to do to qualify for these incentives?
Each program of incentives will provides the requirements. Make sure you understand them before beginning your work.
Where can I find information on other Energy Saving opportunities?
A good source for energy saving tips is the Energy Star program website from the US Government at www.energystar.gov.
How much more insulation should I install?
Each area of the country has different recommended R-values for insulation. Click on this map to find out the recommended R-values for your area and use our insulation calculator to see your potential savings.
How do I know the R-value of my current insulation?
Every product has a different R-value so make sure you read the packaging carefully.
As a rule of thumb, if you have six inches or less in the attic, it would be smart to add more insulation. Use this map to determine what total R-value is recommended for your area.
You can always add more insulation in the attic on top of the existing insulation to achieve even more energy savings and comfort. Use our insulation calculator to see how much you can save.
Do I have to take out the insulation that is already there?
Not necessarily as adding more insulation has a cumulative impact on the overall R-value. In the attic, If the insulation is old or not securely in place in the case of batt products, it might make sense to remove it and fill in with fresh blown-in Cellulose insulation. You can also just blow in new insulation on top of the existing insulation and improve the overall quality and R-value.
In walls, it is possible for contractors to install the new insulation in a manner that compresses existing insulation in the wall cavity and completely seal the wall cavity with performance enhancing Cellulose insulation.
How do I find a contractor?
There are several sources to find contractors in your area including the Yellow Pages and Google.com. Your local utility company is also a good source to begin your search. Once you have identified potential contractors, use our guidelines on hiring a contractor here.
Which is the best insulation for the environment?
Cellulose insulation is made from at least 80% post-consumer recycled newspapers and is the highest in the industry. Not only does this divert waste from landfills but it also takes minimal energy to convert the newspaper to high quality insulation. It is estimated that if all the newspapers currently going to landfills was converted to Cellulose insulation it would save 7,030,000 tons of CO2 equivalents. That’s the same as taking all the cars off the road in New Mexico and Arizona every year. 3
“R-value for R-value” Fiberglass uses approximately 10 times more energy than Cellulose insulation to produce and transport while foam products, derived from petroleum, use even more. In addition, neither of these products is recyclable. 4
For more information on the environmental impact of your insulation choice, click here.
3 National Auto Dealers Association; Paper Industry Assoc. Council 2006; EPA)
4 “Life Cycle Analysis of a Residential Home in Michigan” S. Blanchard & P. Reppe (Sept. 1998); Canadian Architect Measures of Sustainability
Do I need a Vapor Retarder?
With Cellulose insulation we do not recommend a vapor retarder unless there is extremely cold weather or high humidity areas such as pools and spas.
What is the best insulation to use in a cold climate?
Studies by the Oak Ridge National laboratories show that Cellulose insulation performs better than fiberglass when the difference between the internal and external temperature exceeds 30 degrees.
Refer to our chart to see what insulation you should have in your area and consider the overall performance of Cellulose insulation.
How much money can I save installing more insulation?
For a general idea on how much you could save on your utility bills by increasing your insulation use our savings calculator.
What does R-value mean?
R-value is the measure of resistance a material has to heat flow. The higher the R-value, the greater the resistance. As explained in the section “Why Insulate?” resisting heat flow is the primary purpose of insulation which in turn lowers energy costs.
Where can I get Cellulose insulation if I want to do it myself?
Cellulose insulation is available at most home improvement stores and lumber yards. Most of these sites also rent machines for installation. Many of these stores can also help with additional insulation questions you might have.
Do I need any Special Equipment?
Yes. You will need a blowing machine which can be rented or sometimes loaned from most home improvement stores or lumber yards. As with most home improvement projects, it is recommended that you wear protective gear such as a mask and goggles for minimum discomfort during the installation process.
