If you have loose-fill insulation that is white and fluffy and has a little shine, it is probably fiberglass fill. Fiberglass can irritate the skin and potentially cause respiratory irritation, but it is not known to cause cancer or other significant health problems.
Full Answer
Is your insulation dangerous to your health?
When insulation gets disturbed or damaged due to demolition, remodeling or repair, it may become airborne and lodge in the lungs to cause severe respiratory and potentially life-threatening illnesses. Vermiculite is a mineral used commonly in insulation, construction and gardening.
Is Uffi insulation dangerous?
UFFI was extensively used in the 1980s, and homes insulated with the substance are a cause for concern. Moisture or water further deteriorates UFFI, releasing noxious formaldehyde into the indoor atmosphere. Remove all deteriorating and old blown UFFI insulation, and dispose of it appropriately.
Is fiberglass insulation dangerous?
Fiberglass insulation is found in 71% of U.S. homes and comes in many forms—whether it’s batt, blown-in, or loose insulation. It may keep your home warm, but is insulation dangerous? As it turns out, insulation can sometimes be hazardous. It’s not just fiberglass insulation (or the dreaded asbestos) that poses a risk.
How dangerous is vermiculite insulation?
Vermiculite is a pretty popular and widely used type of insulation. It’s pretty easy to identify. It looks like loose gravel or small packing peanuts. Vermiculite itself is not dangerous, but if your home was built before 1990, it’s probably contaminated with asbestos.
What type of insulation is dangerous?
Asbestos InsulationWhy Asbestos Insulation Is Dangerous Asbestos fibers, depending on the amount and frequency of inhalation, can lead to a number of unpleasant symptoms, such as coughing, breathing problems, loss of appetite, and chest pain.Jun 30, 2021
What is white insulation?
Northern White is an unbonded, white, virgin fibre, loose fill fibre glass insulation. The glass fibres are manufactured from postindustrial and post-consumer recycled glass. Additives are applied to provide product extended shelf life and to reduce static electricity and fibre dusting during application.
Is insulation toxic to humans?
Most insulation is generally toxic and dangerous, especially when you're exposed to it for a long time. Fortunately, insulation is installed in ways that minimize exposure to these risks. However, improper insulation can cause irritation, pain, or severe long-term effects.Sep 19, 2021
Why is some insulation white?
White Insulation and Other Material Colors Fiberglass naturally appears clear. Insulation manufacturers bind the microscopic strands of fiberglass by using a resin. The color of this resin determines the final color of the insulation. The same holds true for other insulation materials, such as polystyrene.Dec 21, 2021
Is Fiberglass Insulation white?
Fiberglass building insulation is commonly installed in batts or chopped forms and may be yellow, pink, green, or white in color as is shown in these four photographs.
Is there a difference between white and pink insulation?
The core difference in colors is simply that certain manufacturers have trademarked specific colors. For example, Owens Corning is the only company allowed to produce pink fiberglass insulation, while Johns Manville holds the trademark for the white and green colors.Jan 10, 2022
What is the white fluffy insulation in my attic?
If you have loose-fill insulation that is white and fluffy and has a little shine, it is probably fiberglass fill. Because it is a glass product, fiberglass has a slight shine when subjected to bright light. It is very soft, almost like cotton candy, and is composed of very fine fibers.Mar 28, 2022
Is it OK to have insulation exposed?
"Fiberglass insulation should never be left exposed in an occupied area, according to the American Lung Association," says ALA's Godfrey. "Exposed fiberglass insulation, once in the air, does cause respiratory reactions, such as dry, scratchy throat and coughing, as well as acting as a skin and eye irritant.Mar 18, 2001
Can breathing insulation make you sick?
Respiratory Problems This is a situation where the insulating agent releases potentially harmful chemicals into your home via evaporation. Inhaling the particles for extended periods can cause serious respiratory problems, including breathing difficulties and frequent asthma triggers.Dec 16, 2019
Is pink insulation toxic?
Insulation, especially fiberglass insulation, is potentially harmful to your health. Those pink, fluffy rolls are often left uncovered by builders. In certain circumstances, this could put your family's health at risk.
Is Fiberglass Insulation safe to breathe?
Fiberglass Particles Can Harm Breathing Systems As a result, people who handle or are exposed to this insulation can breathe in tiny bits of glass. After a while, those bits can get stuck in a person's lungs, leading to respiratory ailments. Fiberglass exposure can also inflame the eyes and skin, making them itchy.Jan 23, 2017
What color is blown insulation?
Blown fiberglass comes in three common colors: white, pink or yellow and the colors simply identify the manufacturer. Blown-in fiberglass insulation in attics typically has an R-value of 2.5 per inch. The density of the blown-in fiberglass determines the R-value just like it does for a batt.
Why was vermiculite insulation banned?
Vermiculite insulation was banned once it was discovered that it contained a high percentage of asbestos fibers that were proven to cause several d...
How dangerous is vermiculite insulation?
When vermiculite is circulated in air, it could cause small, needle-like asbestos fibers to lodge into the lung and cause severe damage. Asbestos i...
Can asbestos kill you?
Asbestos doesn’t kill directly humans but it can lead to the development of asbestos-related diseases such as lung cancer and diffuse pleural thick...
What are the characteristics of fiberglass?
Fiberglass has all the makings of a good insulative material. It is naturally incombustible because it is a mineral material, which means it does n...
Is it safe to buy a house with vermiculite insulation?
If possible, try not to buy a house with vermiculite insulation. If you plan to buy a house with vermiculite insulation, make sure to not use stora...
How does insulation affect energy?
Insulating our homes is one of the most important parts of house construction, and insulation has a big effect on the costs of energy. Heat naturally flows from a warm space to a cool space, and our homes suffer from this transfer. In the winter, warm air from the inside will move to the outside and make us cold.
When was vermiculite insulation banned?
The United States decided to ban the sale of this insulation in 1978.
What happens if you touch fiberglass?
If you've ever come in contact with fiberglass, you already know what it can do to your skin. The tiny fibers of glass from insulation wool can irritate your skin and eyes. If you experience too much contact with fiberglass, it can cause what's called irritant contact dermatitis, or inflammation of the skin.
When was asbestos used in insulation?
All of these properties made it particularly attractive for home construction, and asbestos was the main material used for building insulation for the late 19th century and much of the 20th century. But as early as the 1930s, the health hazards of asbestos became clear.
Is fiberglass a carcinogen?
It also has some worried that the fibers from fiberglass are just as dangerous as asbestos -- it's sometimes referred to negatively as "man-made asbestos" or the asbestos of the 20th century. But while early research on rats in the 1970s stated that "fibrous glass of small diameter is a potent carcinogen," more modern research isn’t as sweeping in its findings [source: Montague ]. The American Conference of Governmental Industrial Hygienists, on the other hand, claims fiberglass is "Not Classifiable as a Human Carcinogen," meaning there isn't even data to say whether or not it causes cancer in people [source: Yeshiva University ]. The U.S. National Toxicology Program issued its 13th Report on Carcinogens in fall of 2014, and while its entry on Certain Glass Wool Fibers (Inhalable) states that they are “reasonably anticipated to be human carcinogens,” it also goes on to say that there is so much variation in production that full assessments must be made on a case-by-case basis [source: NTP ].
Is fiberglass as dangerous as asbestos?
It also has some worried that the fibers from fiberglass are just as dangerous as asbestos -- it's sometimes referred to negatively as "man-made asbestos" or the asbestos of the 20th century.
Can fiberglass insulation cause cancer?
But while some research suggests that inhaling fiberglass particles could cause cancer, but in 2001, the International Agency for Research on Cancer removed glass, rock and slag wool fibers -- common elements of fiberglass insulation -- from its list of substances possibly carcinogenic to humans [sources: NTP, IARC ].
What happens if you leak fiberglass insulation?
If fiberglass insulation gets wet, mold can grow, which creates another health hazard.
Is fiberglass insulation harmful?
Fiberglass insulation is made of small fibers combined with resins. This type of insulation is hazardous to health if you have direct contact with it. Skin that touches fiberglass can become uncomfortable and itchy.
Is vermiculite insulation hazardous?
Vermiculite insulation. Another type of insulation that is hazardous is vermiculite insulation. Vermiculite insulation was once popular for being fire resistant. However, this type of insulation can contain asbestos.
What percentage of vermiculite insulation is asbestos?
Insulation made from this material represents over 70 percent of the vermiculite insulation found in U.S. homes. Because the Libby mine closed in 1990, houses built or remodeled before that date might have asbestos-containing insulation. If the house was built after 1990, the chance that your house has asbestos-contaminated insulation are reduced ...
What type of insulation is used in a batt?
Loose-Fill Insulation. If your attic or wall insulation is in batt or blanket form, whether it's fiberglass, cellulose, or another material, you generally don't have to be concerned about asbestos. The types of insulation that were most commonly made with asbestos are loose-fill, also called blown-in, insulation.
What is fiberglass fill?
If you have loose-fill insulation that is white and fluffy and has a little shine, it is probably fiberglass fill. Because it is a glass product, fiberglass has a slight shine when subjected to bright light. It is very soft, almost like cotton candy, and is composed of very fine fibers 2 .
How to test for asbestos in insulation?
You can test the insulation for asbestos using an asbestos testing kit or by having a sample tested at an approved testing laboratory. If you discover that you do have insulation containing asbestos, you can leave it in place or have it removed by a local asbestos abatement company.
Where is asbestos insulation found?
In the United States, most of the vermiculite insulation containing asbestos was sourced from a mine near Libby, Montana, which was active until 1990.
Is asbestos a breathing irritant?
At the least, asbestos is a breathing irritant. At worst, asbestos can cause mesothelioma, a cancerous condition that can lead to serious health problems or death. In older homes, specifically, asbestos may be found in many different materials, from pipe insulation to flooring adhesive to roof shingles.
Is asbestos fiber dangerous?
Asbestos fibers are most dangerous when they are airborne and can be breathed in. Leaving insulation undisturbed greatly reduces the risk of exposure. You can test the insulation for asbestos using an asbestos testing kit or by having a sample tested at an approved testing laboratory.
What color is insulation?
After seeing a few different colors of insulation on the market, you might think the yellow, pink, white, green and brown colors carry some significance.
What is the color of cellulose insulation?
But other materials may appear in their natural state. For example, cellulose fiber insulation, also known as newspaper insulation, tends to look brown or white.
What is the best insulation material for a house?
Types of Insulation Materials. Fiberglass is undoubtedly the most popular choice of material for home insulation. However, according to the U.S. Department of Energy, other choices include mineral wool, cellulose and other natural fibers, polystyrene and various foam materials.
What is the best insulation for a blown in attic?
Fiberglass, rock wool and cellulose fiber insulation are the most common materials used in blown-in projects. This installation technique keeps the insulation materials loose and crumbly, allowing air pockets to naturally form between the fibers. A blower machine allows the installer to place the materials precisely where they need to be. Construction teams typically reserve this type of installation process for attic floors, because the materials can lay horizontally and will not be compressed by any paneling.
What is the most common insulation used in blown in projects?
Fiberglass, rock wool and cellulose fiber insulation are the most common materials used in blown-in projects. This installation technique keeps the insulation materials loose and crumbly, allowing air pockets to naturally form between the fibers.
Why are insulation panels flat?
Due to the rigid nature of polystyrene and foam-based products, these insulation materials are commonly sold in flat panels and are cut to size.
What is the second type of insulation called?
Two primary types of insulation installation techniques exist. The first is known as batt and roll and the second is called blown-in or loose fill insulation. Advertisement. The color of the insulation does not determine the type of installation procedure that will be used.
Why was urea foam insulation banned?
This is largely due to the energy crisis of the 1970s in which urea-formaldehyde-foam insulation was responsible for elevated formaldehyde levels in some homes. As a result of health impacts, this product was banned and that type of insulation has disappeared from the market.
Why is insulation important?
14 Comments. Insulation is a very important aspect of your home. In warm climates, it keeps the heat outside, and in cold climates, it keeps the heat inside. Insulation is used in many different locations in houses: inside walls and ceilings, around foundations, and in attic spaces. There are a variety of types and forms of insulation available, ...
What is loose fill insulation?
Some can simply be poured out of a bag, while others are blown through a special machine, and then through an applicator hose. Cellulose and chopped fiberglass are the most common types of loose fill and blown in insulation. .
Can insulation be used in a house?
Most of today’s insulations can be used safely in a tightly constructed house where the insulation is well separated from the living space. Despite health concerns related to nearly all other building materials, insulation gets the most press coverage.
Is fiberglass insulation harmful?
Fiberglass insulation, however, poses many health risks. Imagine what happens when a window is broken: the glass is extremely sharp and is very dangerous. Fiberglass insulation has the same effect on our lungs, skin, and eyes. The area exposed to fiberglass becomes itchy and irritated.
Is insulation man made?
. Today, most commercially available insulations are man-made.
Can you insulate an attic?
Existing attics can be insulated in a variety of ways, but blown-in insulations are often quicker and cheaper to install than batts. When carefully blown into sidewalls by an experienced installer, insulation can help to tighten a house, thus minimizing infiltration while maximizing energy efficiency and comfort.
When was formaldehyde foam used?
The use of urea formaldehyde foam dates back to the early 1930’s. It has a yellowish color and looks like oozing liquid that has been hardened. Although urea formaldehyde foam is usually found in homes built before the 1970’s, it was also used extensively up until the 1980’s. Eventually, this type of insulation was found to emit formaldehyde vapors during the curing process. In turn, the increased formaldehyde levels caused multiple adverse health effects impacting the eyes, nose, and respiratory systems.
Is it safe to keep old insulation around?
As you can see , keeping that old insulation around can carry a lot of risks. Besides, the older the insulation, the less effective it is at insulating your home. So if you have an older home and suspect that it may still have old insulation, give it a once over, and with these tips you’ll be on your way to an energy-efficient, healthier home in no time!
Is asbestos still in homes?
Asbestos insulation has been officially banned in most countries since the late 1980’s. Nevertheless, it’s still found in many older homes across the country. Asbestos can cause a wide variety of health issues. Here is a list of a few of them:
Is vermiculite insulation dangerous?
It’s pretty easy to identify. It looks like loose gravel or small packing peanuts. Vermiculite itself is not dangerous, but if your home was built before 1990, it’s probably contaminated with asbestos. This is because most of the vermiculite produced in the United States before 1990 came from a mine that was found to contain a deposit of asbestos.
What happens when insulation gets damaged?
When insulation gets disturbed or damaged due to demolition, remodeling or repair, it may become airborne and lodge in the lungs to cause severe respiratory and potentially life-threatening illnesses. Advertisement.
Why is asbestos inhalation bad?
Asbestos inhalation due to exposure to old blown insulation causes lung disease and cancer. Blown insulation, or blown-in insulation, is a technique used to insulate odd-shaped and hard-to-reach crevices and cavities.
Is urea a toxic gas?
Formaldehyde is a colorless, pungent gas that is toxic and a lung irritant in larger quantities.
What happens if you touch fiberglass?
While you may think you're breaking out in a skin rash after touching fiberglass, those markings are probably cuts.
Can you inhale fiberglass?
Fiberglass particles are easy to inhale. Once the tiny glass fibers enter your body, they can actually cut and penetrate your organs and tissues. Some commons signs that you've inhaled fiberglass include:
Can fiberglass cause stomach pain?
It could also trigger a respiratory emergency if you have compromised or vulnerable airways. Lastly, ingesting fiberglass particles can cause severe stomach pain and irritation.
Is fiberglass dangerous?
Fiberglass isn't considered dangerous in a passive way once it's installed in your home. The health hazards associated with fiberglass are only relevant when we're talking about direct contact and exposure.
Is fiberglass a carcinogen?
Fiberglass is a suspected carcinogen. While some studies have shown an increased cancer risk in mice when lung tissue was exposed to fiberglass, the jury is still very much out when it comes to the cancer risk in humans. Any contractor you talk to will tell you that the protocol is to limit direct contact by as much as possible.
Does fiberglass contain glass?
Does fiberglass actually contain glass? Yes! The most common form of insulation found in homes, fiberglass is a woven product made of plastic that is reinforced with glass fibers. Resin and binding substances are added to fiberglass to create strength and durability.
Can you add fiberglass insulation with zero exposure?
If you've never installed insulation before, adding fiberglass insulation with zero exposure can be a challenge. That's why one of the best ways to eliminate fiberglass danger is to call in an insulation pro instead!
So, Should You Use Insulation?
- You should insulate your home. Even though most insulation is made of dangerous chemicals that can cause serious reactions if you get exposed to them, you can always use alternative insulation materials like sheep wool or old jeans. Besides, you can reduce some of the risks that come with manufactured insulation by hiring a professional.
Why Hire A Professional to Install Your Insulation
- If you’re planning on installing insulation yourself, even the best methods can be dangerous and unsafe. For example, proper installation of spray foam insulation requires the use of special equipment. An incorrect installation can release toxic fumes or cause indoor air pollution due to the chemicals used in manufacturing. A good rule to follow is: if it looks like a job for profession…
Final Thoughts
- Insulation is a necessity, but it can also be toxic. Though most insulation is safe to use for short periods, prolonged exposure may lead to irritation and pain in some cases. These symptoms are often exacerbated if the precautions necessary to maintain one’s safety while installing or removing insulation from their home aren’t followed closely. To...
Sources
Preparation
Diagnosis
- How, exactly, can you identify whether your attic insulation is asbestos? Let's look at the particulars of loose-fill insulation that may contain asbestos.
Safety
- The main source of asbestos danger concerns vermiculite attic insulation, but not all brands or all sources of vermiculate pose a hazard. There is nothing inherently bad about vermiculite, which is a pellet-like mineral that expands at high temperatures and which is often used for gardening as an amendment that loosens soil and improves its ability...
Other uses
- Vermiculite is also used for insulation, in particular, the vermiculite that was mined by the Libby company in Montana for about 70 years, under the brand name Zonolite.
Properties
- Although Zonolite is a mineral, it is lightweight, because during the production process it is subjected to high heat that causes the particles to puff up. If so, it is probably cellulose insulation. Cellulose has a high recycled paper content, no minerals. Close examination will show that this puffy gray material does not contain earth minerals at all, but will look like shredded gray paper. …
Types
- Another mineral-based loose fill insulation is rock wool, which frequently appears as bundles of fibers with a soft, cottony appearance. Rock wool is white, off-white or brownish-white. Rock wool is a manufactured product, made by melting basaltic rock and dolomite and adding binders. The raw material is heated to 2,750 degrees Fahrenheit until it melts. The molten material is spun int…
Risks
- If your loose-fill insulation fits the visual cues for vermiculite insulation, you can check to see if it is the asbestos-carrying Zonolite type by purchasing a DIY asbestos testing kit or seeking a commercial firm who can test for asbestos. DIY kits are usually available for less than $50. If you discover that you do have insulation containing asbestos, you are well advised to seek an abate…