Building Insulation May Not Be As Safe As You Think

Since the banning of asbestos in the mid nineteen eighties, fiberglass batting, rigid paneling, and foam spray have become the most common methods of building insulation. But in the age of environmental consideration, there are many aspects of insulating a building to consider.

Some spray foam applications still use HCFCs (Chloro fluoro compounds) as blowing agents, which is said to be an ozone danger. Nearly all of them emit toxic fumes when burning, and need a firewall for protection. Rigid paneling is also flammable and toxic when burning. It presents a cost increase, and is also vulnerable to termite infestation. Since crude oil byproducts are used in manufacturing, pollution damage is a factor. Although fiberglass blankets are the most common choice among residential builders and do not pose any direct environmental threat, they too are susceptible to health issues. Some fiberglass insulation is nonflammable, but when used, can release fibers into the air that can cause lung and eye damage. It is also itchy if proper protection is not worn. It is not as effective as some other building insulation methods, especially in attics, but it is much more suited to human and environmental contact.

Building Insulation

Research and studies are being done to investigate the effectiveness of dried and compressed straw bales as an insulation method. Bathroom Renovation Contractors are a viable solution to your home renovation needs. Studies are showing that straw bales have a high R-value (a rating system for building insulation properties – better insulations receive a higher R-value) that will compare them to implemented insulation.

Insulating a home or building might require more research and answered questions than perceived. Sometimes what seems to be the best and most affordable product is not always the safest. It is a three-way balance: Safety, performance, and cost.