How Long Does Insulation Last: A Study of Lifespan

Your home's insulation works hard to keep you comfortable and your energy bills in check – until it doesn’t. Because insulation is “out of sight, out of mind,” you might not notice problems until it’s already quit working. At BuildLabs, we help homeowners choose insulation that’s right for their homes and needs, prioritizing quality and longevity. Knowing how different materials perform and how long they last lets you plan ahead – before you feel the chill or see your energy bills climb.

Comparing Insulation Options

Choosing insulation goes beyond keeping your home warm. It impacts energy efficiency, comfort, and long-term value. When comparing materials, consider:

• R-Value (Thermal Resistance): This measures how well the material resists heat flow. Higher R-values mean better insulation.
• Moisture Resistance: Insulation that resists moisture is less likely to develop mold or degrade over time.
• Durability: Longer-lasting materials require fewer repairs or replacements.
• Environmental Impact: Consider the material's production process, material components, recyclability, and any off-gassing of chemicals after installation.
• Air Sealing: Some materials prevent air leaks, improving energy efficiency.
• Cost and Installation: Factor in the upfront cost and whether professional installation is required.

By weighing these factors, you can choose insulation that balances performance, sustainability, and long-term savings.

Most Common Insulation Types

Considering these factors, here’s a closer look at the three most common insulation types: Fiberglass, Cellulose, and Polyurethane Foam.

Fiberglass Insulation

Fiberglass insulation is made from fine glass fibers and resin and is available in both batt and loose-fill (blown-in) forms. Fiberglass provides effective and reliable insulation in walls, attics, and floors, but can lose efficiency over time due to settling and air infiltration.

• R-Value: R-2.2 to R-3.8 per inch
• Pros: Affordable and widely available, easy to install, resistant to moisture damage, non-combustible, long-lasting
• Cons: May irritate skin and lungs during installation, relatively low R-value as the product does not create an airtight seal, manufacture contributes to air pollution

Cellulose Insulation

Cellulose is a fiber insulation made from recycled paper products, like newspaper and cardboard, and treated with non-toxic borate to make it fire, mold, and pest-resistant. Environmentally friendly, versatile, and effective, cellulose insulation is the preferred choice of BuildLabs, as it provides an airtight seal in even irregular spaces. Without proper installation, however, the material can absorb moisture, which may reduce effectiveness and lifespan.

• R-Value: R-3.2 to R-3.8 per inch
• Pros: sustainable and eco-friendly, cost-effective, higher R-value than fiberglass, easily adaptable for irregular and hard-to-reach spaces, good at reducing air leakage, superior soundproofing, mold and pest-resistant
• Cons: When not installed properly, can absorb moisture and settle over time, and requires fire-retardant treatment.

Check out BuildLabs' own time-tested cellulose insulation, BuildLabs Organic Insulation, which blends sustainability with superior efficiency.

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Polyurethane “Spray” Foam Insulation

Polyurethane foam, commonly known as spray foam, comes in two types: open-cell and closed-cell. Closed-cell spray foam has the highest R-value, offering superior insulation and acting as an air barrier, while open-cell foam is softer and more breathable. Although spray foam delivers excellent energy efficiency and long-term performance, it’s more expensive upfront and may off-gas volatile organic compounds (VOCs) after installation without proper ventilation. Despite the cost, its durability and air-sealing capabilities make it a popular choice for maximum energy savings.

• R-Value: R-3.5 to R-6.5 per inch (varies by type)
• Pros: High R-value, excellent air sealing, moisture-resistant, long-lasting
• Cons: Higher cost, requires professional installation, may release toxic chemicals during curing, needs proper ventilation, is difficult to remove once installed, and can pose a fire hazard without a fire-resistant barrier.

Each type of insulation has its advantages, and the best choice depends on your home’s needs, budget, and long-term energy goals. At BuildLabs, we work closely with homeowners to ensure they choose insulation that’s effective and safe for years to come.

Factors Affecting the Lifespan of Insulation

To make sure your insulation lasts, it’s important to consider a few key factors. Proper material choice, quality, environment, installation, and maintenance all play a role in long-term performance. Here’s what to keep in mind:   

• Insulation Type. Synthetic materials like fiberglass and spray foam are naturally more moisture-resistant and rigid, helping them maintain their shape and effectiveness longer than organic cellulose, which, if untreated, can settle or absorb moisture. In the case of all three, proper installation is key.
  
• Material Quality and Durability. Higher-quality materials perform better and last longer. Premium cellulose, fiberglass, or spray foam are more durable than lower-grade options. Using top-quality materials ensures durability and efficiency for decades. This is why BuildLabs exclusively uses cellulose insulation across all its build projects.
  
• Environmental Influences. Climate and environment impact insulation’s lifespan. High humidity, extreme temperature fluctuations, and pest problems can cause faster wear. Choosing the right material for your conditions can extend its life.
  
• Installation Quality. Correct installation is crucial. Even the best materials can fail if installed poorly. The experienced professionals at BuildLabs ensure expert installation to prevent issues like gaps, compression, or moisture buildup that shorten insulation’s lifespan. 

Lifespan of Popular Insulation Types

Knowing how long each insulation type lasts helps homeowners make smart, long-term choices. Here’s a look at the lifespan of the most common types: 

Fiberglass Insulation Lifespan: 80-100 years

Depending on the material quality and installation, fiberglass insulation can last a long time, 80 to 100 years. It holds its shape and performs well, particularly in areas with high moisture or fluctuating temperatures. However, it is not immune to moisture exposure and settling, which can reduce its effectiveness within 15 to 20 years, potentially requiring maintenance or replacement before reaching its full potential.

Cellulose Insulation Lifespan: 20-30 years

Cellulose insulation typically lasts 20 to 30 years, depending on factors like moisture, pests, and proper installation. However, cellulose has a unique advantage in sustainability. Made from recycled paper products, it’s biodegradable and can be repurposed as fertilizer once it’s no longer needed for insulation. This helps extend its usefulness beyond just energy efficiency, making it an eco-conscious option for homeowners who want to reduce waste.

Polyurethane “Spray” Foam: 80+ years 

Polyurethane foam (spray foam) insulation can last a lifetime with proper maintenance. The material withstands major variations in temperature and moisture, with the more dense, closed-cell form having a slight edge in effectiveness and durability. Regular inspections help ensure it remains effective, making it a low-maintenance, long-lasting insulation option.

Conclusion

Choosing the right insulation and ensuring it’s installed properly is key to keeping your home comfortable and energy-efficient for years. BuildLabs helps homeowners make smart choices based on their home’s needs and location, whether they’re renovating or building new.

Ready to upgrade your insulation? Contact BuildLabs for expert guidance and quality installation that stands the test of time.