DENSE-PACK CELLULOSE FOR MULTIFAMILY BUILDINGS
The workhorse of Chicagoland multi-family retrofits. Borate-treated recycled paper fiber dense-packed into closed wall cavities at 3.5 lb per cubic foot. Stops convective heat loss that batt insulation cannot. No wall tear-out required in most cases. Rebate eligible across all four major Illinois utility programs.
THE TOP CHOICE FOR CHICAGO MULTIFAMILY RETROFITS
Once installed, cellulose performs at R-3.5 to R-3.8 per inch and uniquely improves R-value in cold weather, which makes it well-suited to Chicago's climate. It carries a Class I fire rating per ASTM E84 and exceeds modern building code requirements when installed at proper density. For pre-1980 buildings with empty or settled wall cavities, dense-packed cellulose can deliver 20-30% reductions in heating energy use without any other intervention.
✓ R-3.5 to R-3.8 per inch installed thermal performance
✓ Borate-treated, Class I fire rating per ASTM E84
✓ Dense-packed at 3.5 lb per cubic foot, prevents settling and convective looping
✓ Installed through small access holes, no wall tear-out required
✓ Recycled paper content, environmentally sustainable
✓ Best for attic floors, exterior wall cavities, pre-1980 building stock
✓ Rebate eligible across all four major Illinois utility programs
— WHY CELLULOSE
Cellulose insulation is made from borate-treated recycled paper fiber, dense-packed into wall cavities through small access holes drilled in either the interior drywall or exterior mortar joints. This installation method allows us to fully insulate existing walls without tearing them out or displacing tenants. For multi-family buildings with occupied units, that matters.
Where We Install Cellulose
Cellulose works in virtually every area of a multifamily building that needs insulation. It is especially effective in retrofits where open walls are not an option.
Attic Insulation
Blown-in cellulose for attic floors and flat ceilings. Fills every gap and void that batt insulation misses. Ideal for achieving high R-values in existing buildings without tearing out structure.
Dense-Pack Walls
Dense-pack cellulose is blown into existing wall cavities through small holes, no drywall removal required. Critical for multifamily buildings where interior disruption to tenants must be minimized.
Floor Cavities
Insulating floor cavities between units dramatically improves soundproofing and thermal separation. Especially important in older Chicago courtyard buildings and 2-to-6 flats.
Rim Joists
Rim joists at the foundation level are one of the largest sources of heat loss in multifamily buildings. Cellulose combined with air sealing here delivers outsized savings.
Cathedral Ceilings
Dense-pack cellulose fills sloped ceiling cavities completely, eliminating the convection loops that make cathedral ceiling spaces so difficult to heat and cool efficiently.
Mechanical Spaces
Boiler rooms, mechanical closets, and stairwell ceiling voids in multifamily buildings are often uninsulated. Cellulose seals these spaces quickly with minimal disruption.
How Cellulose Compares to Other Insulation Types
| Property | Cellulose | Fiberglass Batt | Open Cell Foam | Closed Cell Foam |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| R-Value per Inch | 3.2 - 3.8 | 2.2 - 2.7 | 3.5 - 3.8 | 6.0 - 7.0 |
| Air Sealing Ability | ||||
| Moisture Resistance | ||||
| Retrofit-Friendly | ||||
| Eco-Friendliness | (recycled) | |||
| Typical Cost | Low - Medium | Lowest | Medium | Highest |
| Best For | Attics, walls, retrofits | New construction | Interior applications | Roofing, crawl spaces |