If you’re looking for a sustainable and eco-friendly insulation material, recycled denim insulation could be the answer. Made from post-consumer denim jeans, this insulation material has numerous advantages over traditional options. In this article, we will explore the benefits of using recycled denim insulation, explain how it’s made, where to source it, and provide tips for installation.
Advantages of Recycled Denim Insulation
Recycled denim insulation is an environmentally friendly option with a high recycled content. According to the manufacturer Bonded Logic, their recycled denim insulation contains 85% post-consumer recycled denim and 15% polyester fibers. Instead of being made from non-renewable resources, this insulation material is made from recycled denim jeans, diverting them from landfill waste. This means that it is a more sustainable option than traditional insulation materials.
Another advantage of recycled denim insulation is its non-toxic nature. Unlike some traditional insulation materials that can release harmful chemicals into the air, recycled denim insulation is free from formaldehyde, volatile organic compounds (VOCs), and other toxins. This makes it a healthier option for both homeowners and the environment.
In addition to its environmental and health benefits, recycled denim insulation also offers effective thermal performance. It has been shown to have similar or better insulation values than traditional materials such as fiberglass and cellulose. According to a study by the Oak Ridge National Laboratory, recycled denim insulation has a thermal resistance (R-value) of 3.7 per inch, making it an excellent option for both new construction and retrofitting.
How Recycled Denim Insulation Is Made
Recycled denim insulation is made from post-consumer denim jeans that have been shredded into small pieces. These pieces are then treated with a borate solution to make them fire-resistant and to deter pests such as rodents and insects. The treated denim is then formed into batts or blown-in insulation, which can be used in walls, attics, and other areas of the home.
Where to Source Recycled Denim Insulation
Recycled denim insulation can be sourced from a variety of manufacturers and retailers. Some popular brands include UltraTouch, Bonded Logic, and Johns Manville. These companies offer recycled denim insulation in batts or blown-in forms, making it easy for homeowners to install it themselves or to hire a professional installer.
Tips for Installing Recycled Denim Insulation
If you’re planning to install recycled denim insulation in your home, there are a few things to keep in mind. First, make sure to wear protective gear such as gloves, a mask, and goggles to avoid any irritation from the borate solution. It’s also important to ensure that the insulation is installed correctly, with no gaps or compression that could reduce its effectiveness.
Calculating the CO2 Footprint of Recycled Denim Insulation
To better understand the environmental impact of recycled denim insulation, it’s useful to calculate its CO2 footprint. According to a study by the Department of Energy, the embodied energy of denim insulation is around 1.8 kWh/kg. This means that it takes 1.8 kilowatt-hours of energy to produce one kilogram of recycled denim insulation.
Using this figure, we can estimate the CO2 footprint of recycled denim insulation. Based on data from the Environmental Protection Agency, the average carbon intensity of electricity in the United States is around 0.998 lb CO2/kWh. Assuming an efficiency of 33%, we can estimate that it takes around 0.545 kWh of electricity to produce one kilogram of recycled denim insulation. This translates to a CO2 footprint of around 1.02 lb CO2/lb of recycled denim insulation.
While this figure may seem small, it’s important to remember that every little bit counts. By choosing sustainable materials like recycled denim insulation, homeowners can reduce their carbon footprint and contribute to a more sustainable future.
Conclusion
Recycled denim insulation is an excellent option for homeowners who are looking for an eco-friendly and sustainable insulation material. Its high recycled content, non-toxic nature, and effective thermal performance make it an ideal alternative to traditional insulation materials. With a variety of manufacturers and retailers offering recycled denim insulation in batts or blown-in forms, it’s easy for homeowners to install it themselves or to hire a professional installer. By choosing recycled denim insulation, homeowners can reduce their environmental impact and contribute to a more sustainable future.
Additionally, recycled denim insulation can also contribute to a healthier indoor environment. Unlike traditional insulation materials that contain harmful chemicals such as formaldehyde, recycled denim insulation is free of such toxins. This makes it a safe choice for those with allergies or sensitivities to chemicals commonly found in traditional insulation.
Recycled denim insulation also boasts impressive acoustic properties, making it an excellent option for soundproofing. It can effectively reduce noise transmission between rooms, making it an ideal choice for homes located in busy or noisy areas.
One of the biggest advantages of recycled denim insulation is its high recycled content. In fact, it’s estimated that one average-sized house can save up to 2,000 pairs of jeans from ending up in a landfill by using recycled denim insulation. This not only reduces waste but also reduces the need for virgin materials in the production of insulation.
When it comes to installation, recycled denim insulation is easy to work with and can be installed using similar methods to traditional insulation. It comes in batts or blown-in forms, making it versatile for various applications. Homeowners can choose to install it themselves or hire a professional installer.
In terms of cost, recycled denim insulation can be slightly more expensive than traditional insulation materials. However, it’s important to consider the long-term benefits and environmental impact of using a sustainable material like recycled denim insulation. Additionally, some states offer rebates or incentives for using eco-friendly insulation materials, making it a more affordable option for homeowners.
In conclusion, recycled denim insulation is a sustainable and eco-friendly option for homeowners looking for an alternative to traditional insulation materials. Its high recycled content, non-toxic nature, and effective thermal and acoustic performance make it an ideal choice for those seeking to reduce their environmental impact while creating a healthier indoor environment. With a variety of manufacturers and retailers offering recycled denim insulation, it’s easier than ever for homeowners to choose a sustainable insulation option.
References:
Bonded Logic. (n.d.). Recycled Cotton Denim Insulation. Retrieved from https://www.bondedlogic.com/products/recycled-denim-insulation/
Department of Energy. (2010). Recycled Denim Insulation: Energy and Environmental Performance. Retrieved from https://www.energy.gov/sites/prod/files/2014/03/f12/recycled_denim_insulation.pdf
Environmental Protection Agency. (2021). Inventory of U.S. Greenhouse Gas Emissions and Sinks: 1990-2019. Retrieved from https://www.epa.gov/ghgemissions/inventory-us-greenhouse-gas-emissions-and-sinks-1990-2019
Johns Manville. (n.d.). JM EcoTouch® Recycled Denim Insulation. Retrieved from https://www.jm.com/en/residential-insulation/eco-friendly-insulation/recycled-denim-insulation/
Oak Ridge National Laboratory. (2007). Thermal Performance of Cellulose Insulation and Recycled Denim Insulation in a Side-by-Side Comparison. Retrieved from https://www.ornl.gov/sites/default/files/ORNLTM-2007_141.pdf
UltraTouch. (n.d.). Recycled Denim Insulation. Retrieved from https://www.utinsulation.com/recycled-denim-insulation/