Do You Know What Type of Insulation Is in Your Attic?

Fiberglass is the most recognizable insulation, usually coming in those famous pink soft batts (though it can be yellow or white). Because glass is a poor conductor of heat, it’s great at stopping thermal transfer.

• The Pros: It’s been used for decades, it’s relatively affordable, and it often contains up to 30% recycled content.
• The Cons: It loses its R-value (insulating power) if it gets compressed or wet. It can also be an irritant to the skin and lungs if handled without proper protective gear.

Mineral wool is often a superior choice to fiberglass. It’s significantly denser, which makes it excellent for soundproofing as well as heat retention.

• The Pros: It’s fire-resistant, doesn’t absorb moisture (so mold isn’t a fan), and can actually improve indoor air quality by trapping dust particles. It’s also made of up to 70% recycled material.

The Cons: It’s more expensive than fiberglass and can be harder to find in some local hardware stores.

Common in homes built between the 1920s and 1970s, vermiculite looks like small, shiny silver-gold or grayish-brown pebbles. When heated, it “puffs up” to create air pockets.

• The Big Risk: The issue isn’t the mineral itself, but the fact that about half of vermiculite sold in North America was contaminated with asbestos.
• What to Do: If you find this in your attic, don’t disturb it. Have it tested by a professional immediately to see if asbestos is present.

Made from about 80% recycled newsprint, cellulose is a favorite for those looking for an ecological option.

• The Pros: In cold climates like ours, cellulose performs better than fiberglass, which can lose half its insulating power when the temperature drops. Because it’s blown in, it fills every tiny gap and crack, acting as a great air blocker.

The Cons: It can be more expensive than basic fiberglass batts and can settle over time, potentially reducing its effectiveness.

Spray foam offers the highest R-value per inch, making it the “gold standard” for cold-climate homes.

• The Pros: It expands to fill every nook and cranny, creating a perfect air barrier. It’s the best way to prevent heat loss in a leaky attic.
• The Cons: It’s the most expensive option on the market and requires professional installation. This is definitely not a DIY project for a Saturday afternoon.