This month discusses the manufacturing and installation processes, the various types of cellulose insulation and its energy efficiency.
Last month, in Part 1, we took a look at some of the pros and cons of cellulose insulation. This month, we'll conclude the discussion with an in-depth look at the manufacturing and installation processes, the various types of cellulose insulation and its energy efficiency. Also, we'll examine the contributions of industry pioneer Nu-Wool Inc.
Upon the completion of the shredding process, chemicals such as boric acid, sodium borate (borax) and ammonium sulfate, are added to the cellulose to provide a fire-retarder and mold, insect and rodent resistance to the cellulose. Nowadays, a mixture of borates and ammonium sulfate with small quantities of phosphate is most common as a chemical admixture. The worldwide supply of boron is limited to just two mines: one in California's Mojave Desert and the other in Turkey (the U.S. mine accounts for 50 percent of the supply and will only last another 30 years, more or less, at the current rate of extraction). Once the chemicals and dry-binders are added to the cellulose, it is packaged and transported to suppliers and distributors. It is recommended that cellulose manufactured with borax and boric acid, by themselves or in combination with ammonium sulfate, not ammonium sulfate alone, be used. If using cellulose with ammonium sulfate, be sure it is of a commercial-not agricultural-grade.