Been thinking about upgrading insulation in the attic, and I'm kinda stuck between spray foam and blown-in insulation. Spray foam seems like it seals better, but it's pricier. Blown-in is cheaper and easier to install, but I heard it settles over time. Curious what most folks around here prefer or have used in their own homes... quick poll:
- Spray foam
- Blown-in insulation
- Something else (tell me below)
I've used both spray foam and blown-in before, but honestly, don't overlook batt insulation—especially if you're comfortable DIYing. It's affordable, straightforward to install, and doesn't settle like blown-in can. Sure, spray foam seals better, but with proper air sealing beforehand (caulking gaps, sealing around fixtures), batt insulation can perform surprisingly well. Just something else to consider...
Batt insulation can definitely be solid, especially if you're careful with sealing beforehand. But one thing I'd push back on slightly is the settling issue with blown-in. From what I've seen, if it's installed properly—meaning consistent density and depth—it really doesn't settle enough to affect performance noticeably. Plus, blown-in can fill odd-shaped cavities and gaps batt insulation might miss. Batt's great for DIY simplicity, but blown-in done right can be just as reliable long-term...just my two cents from experience.
I've seen blown-in insulation hold up pretty well too, especially when the installers know their stuff. Had a job a few years back where we tore off an old roof and got a good look at the attic insulation underneath. It was blown-in cellulose, probably 15-20 years old, and honestly, it looked surprisingly even—no major dips or thin spots. Makes me wonder though, does climate or humidity play a role in how much settling actually happens over time? Seems like that could be a factor...
Seems like that could be a factor...
Climate and humidity definitely factor into how insulation performs over time. I've seen blown-in cellulose hold up great in drier climates, but in humid or storm-prone areas, moisture intrusion can cause settling or even mold issues. Spray foam tends to handle moisture better since it seals gaps more effectively. If you're somewhere with frequent heavy rains or high humidity, spray foam might be worth the extra cost long-term.
