Replies

1. 
   DickRussell | Jan 31, 2012 11:39am | #1

   I don't know why borate-only cellulose wouldn't be available to you. However, what some people suggest is that with the bulk discounts available to insulation contractors you may be able to have the attic blow done by a contractor for no more than what you would pay yourself for materials alone. Just be sure to specify the borate-only material. I also wonder if your concern about ammonium sulfate is warranted for a blow-over layer in the attic, where there would be no exposure of metal fasteners.

2. 
   whtG2BbmVi | Jan 31, 2012 12:13pm | #2

   Cellulose Insulation

   There is no difference what so ever, but all-borate material is more expensive.  Retailers know that most DIYers choose the lowest cost product, and are unwilling to stock material that perhaps only one out of ten customers will buy. If I were insulating my own attic I would choose the lowest cost product, because I know the stories about corrosion and other supposed problems are vastly overblown. You can find isolated horror stories to "prove" any position you care to take. Given proper formulation and process control, which are the norm in the industry these days, there are no endemic corrosion or other problems with any cellulose insulation.

1. 
   MikeSmith | Jan 31, 2012 07:10pm | #3

   depends on where you live..

   we use  borates only....the ammonium sulfate  smells, it  irritates  the  skin and  breathing  passages more in installation..

   it is  corrosive

   there  are regional producers  who can  supply you

   we  use  Cel-Pak  from  National Fiber

3. 
   max923 | Jan 31, 2012 09:09pm | #4

   Thanks.

   Thanks everyone. I want to use all-borate insulation because I've spent a lot of effort sealing the attic and I want to make sure I do this right - I plan on being in the house for a while and the extra cost is worth the peace of mind to me. I want to blow it in myself because then I'll be sure it's done right though I may go the professional route if I can find someone who is concientous.

1. 
   DanH | Jan 31, 2012 09:25pm | #5

   You do the prep work -- seal leaks, install vent chutes, etc -- and hire it blown.  The prep is what can be screwed up.

4. 
   max923 | Feb 01, 2012 04:35pm | #6

   Still looking

   I'm still unable to find someone who will sell all borate cellulose to a consumer. National Fiber's web site indicates you must go through one of their installers. I want to do this myself as I know know every nook and cranny in my attic and there are several areas I want to make sure are packed in correctly. I live outside of Boston - anyone know of a retailer for all borate cellulose?

   Thanks.

1. 
   calvin | Feb 01, 2012 05:49pm | #7

   max

   Mike Smith is from Rhode Island-he might be able to give you a contact person at National that will help you out.

   Send him a private message, by clicking on his name in that post to you above.  That goes to his profile and the PM should be hi-lighted at the bottom left.

   Best of luck.

5. 
   calvin | Feb 02, 2012 06:44pm | #8

   Mike

   Could you post a picture of your stair tread pattern maker in this thread? 

   http://forums.finehomebuilding.com/breaktime/general-discussion/replacing-housed-skirt-board-interior-stairway

   Thanks!