InsulCalc

Blown-in cellulose: R-value per inch

Short answer

Blown-in cellulose adds about R-3.5 per inch, so you need roughly 8.6" for R-30 and 14.0" for R-49.

R-value per inch

R-3.5

Best for

Attics and dense-packed walls

Blown-in cellulose thickness chart

Target R-valueThickness needed
R-133.7"
R-195.4"
R-308.6"
R-3810.9"
R-4914.0"
R-6017.1"

How much for your home?

Calculate blown-in cellulose

Other materials

Frequently asked questions

How many inches of blown-in cellulose do I need for R-49?

About 14.0" of blown-in cellulose, since it adds roughly R-3.5 per inch (R-49 ÷ 3.5).

What is the R-value of blown-in cellulose per inch?

Blown-in cellulose provides about R-3.5 per inch (a typical value — density and brand vary). So 8.6" gives roughly R-30.

What is blown-in cellulose best used for?

Attics and dense-packed walls. Compare it against other materials for your target R-value in the calculator.