SYMPOSIA PAPER Published: 01 January 1987
STP18500S

Thickness and Density of Loose-Fill Insulations After Installation in Residential Attics

Source

Limited information exists on the extent of settling of loose-fill attic insulations as a function of time after installation. This study reports thickness and density measurements in attics immediately after installation and periodically for two years following. Installations of fiberglass A, rock wool, fiberglass B, perlite, and cellulose in 44 attics in Ohio, Washington, and Tennessee were examined periodically.

The thickness, t, at fixed locations was measured using probes, rulers attached to ceiling joists, and polystyrene floats guided by rulers. The density, ρ, was determined using a cylindrical cutter to define a specimen of known volume that was weighed on site. The observed values of t and ρ were correlated with time after installation, and manufacturers' descriptions of products including thermal resistance expectations.

As part of the analysis of cellulosic insulation behavior, a series of laboratory tests of the blower-cyclone-shaker technique were conducted, and the findings from these tests are reported.

Author Information

McElroy, DL
Oak Ridge National Laboratory, Oak Ridge, TN
Yarbrough, DW
Oak Ridge National Laboratory, Oak Ridge, TN
Graves, RS
Oak Ridge National Laboratory, Oak Ridge, TN
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Details
Developed by Committee: C16
Pages: 493–505
DOI: 10.1520/STP18500S
ISBN-EB: 978-0-8031-4998-4
ISBN-13: 978-0-8031-0493-8