Blow-in-Blanket System / BIBS

While we do have a page about it on our regular website, I thought I should mention the Blow-in-Blanket System specifically in this blog - mainly because it's an insulation system that doesn't get the press it should, even though it's been around for well over 20 years. Everyone knows batt insulation, most people have heard of or seen wet spray cellulose and spray foam is the new (or at least the most actively marketed) kid on the block. So, what is this Blow-in-Blanket System?

(For the record, BIBS is the official and registered acronym, although I've never liked it.)

Anyway, BIBS is a blown-in fiberglass product that goes in behind netting that is stapled onto the face of the studs in a wall. Some good pics & info is on the official BIBS site here. The main advantage of BIBS is that it fills the cavity completely by going in and around all the easy to miss/mess up areas like pipes & wires in the wall. Plus, BIBS generally (depending upon the product used) has an R-value of R-15 in a 2x4 wall. It also goes in dry, so you can sheetrock immediately and BIBS doesn't settle - we have a display in our office that has been around since 1990 or so that hasn't moved at all.

That's the 2 minute spiel. I'll get into some product specific discussion & why installers are certified tomorrow.

Jeff