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At a minimum, blown-in insulation lasts 20 to 30 years. Cellulose and sheep’s wool come from natural materials, so they likely max out at around 30 years. Fiberglass and rockwool feature artificial materials that boast lengthy lifespans, up to 50 years, or even longer in some cases. As always, this timeline assumes you don’t run into any issues, such as flooding or mold, that shorten the lifespan.

The primary purpose of insulation is to maintain comfortable temperatures in a home, whether that’s cool air when it’s hot out, or warm air in winter, but that’s not all it can do. All options will also minimize heating and cooling needs, lowering both your carbon footprint and energy bills in turn. And some options, like rigid foam boards, even offer soundproofing benefits, too.

The most obvious con of injection foam is the cost. It’s much more expensive to install than fiberglass or spray foam, but it may be your only option (unless you want to remove entire walls around the home). Another con is that it involves drilling into existing material, which has to be repaired after the foam is injected. Some injection foams are made from products that aren’t environmentally friendly, and improper installation can lead to trapped moisture, which can lead to expensive mold remediation down the road. 

The best type of insulation for your home depends on your specific needs, climate, and the area you are insulating. For new construction, structural insulated panels are a highly energy-efficient option that is easy to install during the building process. In very warm climates, reflective insulation can be a cost-effective choice. For cold climates, fiberglass is an excellent option due to its high R-value and resistance to settling over time. Spray foam works well in humid environments because of its moisture-resistant properties. For standard attics, loose-fill, spray foam, or blown-in insulation are all suitable options.