Pros and cons of alternative insulation

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<h1>Pros and cons of alternative insulation</h1><strong> Author: <a href='http://www.articleseen.com/profile_frank lerner.aspx'>frank lerner</a></strong><br /><p>I have discussed how passive solar design entails using natural light and heat to regulate the temperature of your home. While orientation and materials go a long way, the heat your house collects cannot be effectively stored or conducted without proper insulation. The thermal mass of walls, ceilings and floors determines how well these materials can retain heat when it is hot outside, and release heat into the house when it is cold—thus reducing the need for electrical heating and cooling. If the house is not well insulated, however, internal heat can escape. This diagram from energystar.gov illustrates common air leaks by which heat escapes the house: Choosing the right type of insulation is, therefore, crucial. Traditional forms of insulation, like fiberglass and foam, long considered effective and inexpensive, have lately been called into question due to potential health and environmental risks. Traditional foam insulation has been known to contain ozone-depleting chlorofluorocarbons (CFCs), or the somewhat more benign Hydrochlorofluorocarbons (HCFCs). And although speculation that fiberglass is linked to cancer, respiratory diseases and allergies has never been proven, fiberglass can cause irritation to the eyes, throat and skin. As a result of a backlash, some manufacturers are modifying conventional insulators, to increase their recycled content and reduce chemical content. For example, manufacturers are taking steps to to “green” foam insulation by eliminating harmful CFCs and HCFCs. Still, it’s ever wise to be wary: as House-Energy.com warns, the quantities of CFCs and HCFCs in insulation often are not listed on consumer packaging. For those who are looking for a change, a number of organic insulation materials have emerged on the market. Before you go totally hippie, consider the pros and cons of the following green (or at least greener) options: Cellulose: an organic compound typically made from recycled newspaper fibers. Most commonly available as loose fill (in pellet form), it can be blown into wall cavities or attic floors and ceilings. It is sprayed with non-toxic borates to prevent against fire. Pros: • It’s organic, so it takes less energy to produce than fiberglass or mineral wool. • Its high percentage of recycled content gives it a real green appeal Cons: • It soaks up moisture too quickly and takes a long time to dry out. • Moisture can dramatically reduce its thermal resistance. Sheep’s Wool Pros • Organic and sustainable— it requires minimal energy to manufacture • Air pockets in the crimped wool make it a strong insulator • Absorbs moisture without losing its insulating properties • Fire-resistant • Breaks down chemical properties in the air Cons: • Can be quite expensive (can cost upwards of $15 per square meter) • Hard-to-come-by in many areas. Most commonly available in the UK. Straw: a throwback to the mid-1800s, straw bale insulation has recently experienced a revival. Pros: • Strong insulating properties • Biodegradable and sustainable; requires minimal energy to manufacture • Thickness of straw adds potential aesthetic appeal—thickness of walls can help reflect sunlight throughout the room Cons: • Less conventionally used, so some work needed in getting building plans approved/contractors on board • Not conducive to damp climates, as moisture cannot be easily tolerated • Susceptible to mould • If unavailable in your area, cost of shipping can be costly Hemp: chopped hemp is blended with hydrated lime to produce a lightweight, insulating material. Pros: • Organic (can be grown without pesticides), minimal energy used to manufacture • Durable, and has good thermal mass • Hemp and lime are carbon-absorbers, and hemp is fire-resistant • Naturally resistant to fungus and insects Cons: • Takes longer to set than other insulators • Illegal to grow in the US (though not Canada!) Check out building with hemp video Cork Pros: • Lightweight, buoyant, moisture-resistant • Strong thermal and sound insulator • Resilient; naturally resistant to rotting • Low energy output to manufacture Cons: • Hard-to-come-by, so can be quite pricey • Shipping considerations could detract from material’s natural sustainability</p><strong>About the Author:</strong><br /><a rel="nofollow" href="http://www.yellowbluedesigns.com/">Passive Solar House Plans</a> are really becoming trend setters comprising innumerable new ideas of going green. To know more about <a rel="nofollow" href="http://www.yellowbluedesigns.com/2010/10/19/pros-and-cons-of-alternative-insulation-2/">Green House Plan</a> as one of the plans visit the specified link. <p> Article Source: <a href='http://www.articleseen.com/Article_Pros-and-cons-of-alternative-insulation_38903.aspx'> http://www.articleseen.com/Article_Pros and cons of alternative insulation_38903.aspx</a></p>

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