There are several types of blown insulation on the market, including fiberglass insulation, cellulose insulation and polyurethane foam insulation. Each type of insulation offers advantages and disadvantages over the other types.
When fiberglass insulation becomes airborne, it can enter the lungs and cause serious damage, according to AsktheBuilder.com. Polyurethane insulation emits fumes that are toxic when inhaled, and exposure to the eyes can result in temporary blindness.
Spray-polyurethane foam insulation is highly flammable. Cellulose insulation is primarily made up of newspaper that has been recycled. Because it is usually treated with fire retardants such as sodium borate, however, it is difficult to ignite, according to Superseal Construction Products. Fiberglass insulation is traditionally quite fire-resistant.
Cellulose insulation is considered to have a non-damaging effect on the environment because it is made primarily of recycled materials. Some of the blowing agents in other types of blown insulation like polyurethane foam insulation contain harmful greenhouse gases, according to ThomasNet.com.
Most blown insulations provide the same R-values per square inch as traditional roll-up fiberglass insulation. Blown insulations can be installed into tight places easier than other types of insulation.