Blown-In Insulation in Clearwater, FL

Blown-in insulation is loose fiberglass or cellulose fed through a hose and spread across the attic floor, or packed into closed walls. In Clearwater homes where the ducts are not in the attic, or where the budget does not stretch to roof deck foam, it is usually the most economical way to get a ceiling up to a high R-value. It flows around trusses, wiring and blocking, filling gaps that batts leave behind.

Fiberglass vs cellulose

Blown fiberglass is made of glass fibers, does not absorb much water and does not settle much once installed. Cellulose is mostly recycled paper treated with fire retardant; it is denser, packs tighter around obstacles and is common for dense-packing walls. Both work in a Florida attic. We pick based on the existing insulation, how the attic is laid out and what you prefer, and we write the material and depth on the quote.

How deep is deep enough

The 2023 Florida Building Code, Energy Conservation uses R-38 as the ceiling target for climate zone 2. The Department of Energy's guidance for existing zone 2 homes suggests R-49 to R-60 if the attic is empty, or adding R-38 to R-49 if 3 to 4 inches are already there. The depth needed for a given R-value depends on the product, so we read it off the manufacturer's chart and set depth markers so you can see it.

Seal first, then blow

Loose fill does not stop air. Warm, humid attic air can flow through it and down into the house through can lights, top plates and the attic hatch. We seal those leaks before we blow insulation on top. We also install baffles at the eaves so the new insulation does not choke the soffit vents, and keep a clear area around any recessed light or flue that needs clearance.

Topping up old insulation

If what is already in the attic is dry, clean and reasonably even, we blow new material on top. If it is wet from a roof leak, soiled by rodents, or matted into a thin layer, adding more on top buries the problem, and we recommend removal first. After a roof leak or a storm, check the insulation under the leak before you top up.

Blown-in walls

For wood-frame walls that are closed up and empty, dense-pack cellulose or fiberglass can be blown in through small holes in the siding or drywall, then plugged and patched. It is less common in Pinellas than attic work because many homes have block exterior walls, but it can make sense in frame additions or frame homes.

Time and disruption

A typical attic is done in a few hours to a day. You usually can stay in the house. We cover the path through the house, keep the hose run tidy and clean up afterward.

Get a free estimate or call (727) 286-3704 to have us measure your attic.