Blown-In Insulation

Blown-In Insulation Machine Rental Basics

What is Blown-In Insulation?

Blown-in insulation is a type of loose-fill insulation that is installed using a machine to blow it into hard-to-reach areas, such as attics. It is made from small pieces of cellulose, fiberglass, or foam, and it conforms to the objects under and around it, providing excellent coverage.

Benefits of Blown-In Insulation

• High R-value: Blown-in insulation can achieve an R-value of up to R-38, making it a very effective way to insulate your home.
• Easy installation: Blown-in insulation is much easier to install than traditional batts or rolls, especially in obstructed areas like attics.
• Cost-effective: Blown-in insulation is a relatively inexpensive way to insulate your home, especially when rented from a home improvement store.

How to Use an Insulation Blower

1. Safety first: Wear safety glasses, hearing protection, and a NIOSH-approved dust mask.
2. Set up the blower: Plug in the insulation blower and move the hose into the attic.
3. Prepare the insulation: Open a bag of insulation and dump it into the hopper.
4. Start blowing: Turn on the insulation blower and have an assistant feed the hopper with insulation as you work the hose.
5. Adjust the settings: Adjust the air setting or slide gate as needed to ensure even distribution.
6. Blow insulation: Start blowing insulation from the farthest end of the attic and work your way backward.
7. Mind your footing: Always stand on the joists while blowing insulation.
8. Use depth gauges: Use the depth gauges provided with the insulation product or a straightedge to ensure the correct thickness.

Where to Rent an Insulation Blower

• Rental yards offer insulation blowers for rent, but their rates may be higher than home improvement stores.
• Home improvement stores often require you to purchase insulation as part of the blower rental package, but they usually offer lower rental rates.

Tips for Renting an Insulation Blower

• Plan ahead: Have everything set up before picking up the blower to save time and money.
• Choose the right insulation: Not all insulation is compatible with all blowers.
• Consider rental duration: The least expensive rental rates are typically found on a one-day or one-week basis from home centers.
• Check delivery options: Some rental facilities offer delivery services for a fee.

Renting vs. Purchasing an Insulation Blower

For most homeowners, renting an insulation blower is the more cost-effective option. However, if you are a contractor or plan to insulate multiple homes, purchasing a blower may be a better investment.

Types of Insulation Blowers

Insulation blowers come in a variety of sizes and capacities.

• Contractor-grade blowers are large and powerful, with capacities of over 1,500 pounds.
• Homeowner-grade blowers are smaller and more affordable, with capacities of around 50 pounds.

Cost of Insulation Blower Rentals

Sample rental rates for insulation blowers vary depending on the type of blower and the rental duration.

• Rental yard: $205 for a half day, $510 for a week, $1,530 for a month
• Home improvement store: $36 for a half day with insulation purchase, $50 for a full day with insulation purchase, $350 for a week with insulation purchase

Troubleshooting Insulation Blower Problems

If you are having problems with your insulation blower, here are a few things to check:

• Clogged hopper: Clear any obstructions from the hopper.
• Blocked hose: Check for any kinks or blockages in the hose.
• Electrical problems: Ensure that the blower is properly plugged in and that the power cord is not damaged.
• Overheating: If the blower is overheating, allow it to cool down before continuing.

By following these tips, you can successfully rent and use an insulation blower to insulate your home and save energy.