The Hidden Dangers Of Traditional Fiberglass Or Blown-In Insulation

Having the proper insulation for your home is critical to not only keeping your home’s temperature under control, but it is also important for keeping your family safe. But what if we told you that your home’s insulation was causing more harm than good?

Traditionally, homes have been insulated with traditional rolls of fiberglass insulation called batts, or the insulation is blown in using special equipment in areas such as an attic. Unfortunately, just because a material has been used for decades does not mean that it is necessarily safe. Fiberglass insulation is a man-made material that is composed of a variety of materials with the main source being sand and recycled glass. Most homes are insulated with fiberglass or “the pink stuff,” and while many construction companies still use fiberglass insulation, more research is being conducted on its effectiveness as well as health hazards.

At Spray Foam Genie, we built our company on the foundation of providing property owners in Tuscaloosa and the surrounding areas with high-quality insulation that was not only more effective than traditional fiberglass or blown-in insulation but was also safer. Keep reading to learn more about the risks associated with traditional fiberglass insulation and the new modern-day spray foam insulations that can transform your Tuscaloosa home.

a person with irritation on their arm

Fiberglass Particles Can Cause Irritation

Have you ever accidentally brushed up against fiberglass insulation? If so, you understand the irritation risk that comes with traditional fiberglass. People who touch fiberglass insulation are exposed to tiny shards of glass that can irritate the skin and eyes. Red itchy skin and eyes are common irritations, but they can also irritate your lungs causing breathing and other respiratory issues. It is important to note that even if you are not the person installing it or are not in your crawlspace or attic much, fiberglass insulation fibers can travel in leaky air ducts.

Fiberglass Particles Can Cause Irritation

Have you ever accidentally brushed up against fiberglass insulation? If so, you understand the irritation risk that comes with traditional fiberglass. People who touch fiberglass insulation are exposed to tiny shards of glass that can irritate the skin and eyes. Red itchy skin and eyes are common irritations, but they can also irritate your lungs causing breathing and other respiratory issues. It is important to note that even if you are not the person installing it or are not in your crawlspace or attic much, fiberglass insulation fibers can travel in leaky air ducts.

a person clutching a blanket
a person blowing their nose

Fiberglass Can Trap Mold & Other Allergens

The longer fiberglass insulation is in your home, the more likely it is to grow mold and trap other allergens, especially if it is exposed to any moisture. Even a leaky sink or even condensation can contribute to moldy insulation. One way to think about your fiberglass insulation is to compare it to your HVAC filter. As air passes through, dirt, allergens, and dust get trapped in the fibers. While people replace their HVAC filters every 30-60 days, fiberglass insulation typically stays in place for eight to ten years. Therefore, your family can be exposed to extra allergens and mold for an extended time resulting in more wheezing, coughing, allergic reactions, and other breathing problems.

Modern Day Spray Foam Solutions

With all these issues traditional fiberglass insulation causes, we knew there had to be a better insulation solution. At Spray Foam Genie we specialize in effective, low-odor spray foam insulation installations for Tuscaloosa homes and the surrounding area. Spray foam insulation works to create a tight seal by expanding to fill an area completely. This durable spray foam insulation not only protects your home from the elements, but also cuts down on mold, mildew, and other allergens typically found in traditional insulation. Spray foam insulation can also save you money on your utility bills due to a higher R-value than traditional fiberglass insulation. In addition to all these benefits, spray foam insulation is also pest resistant and can increase your property value.

Modern Day Spray Foam Solutions

Protect your Tuscaloosa property and family today with high-quality spray foam insulation installation from Spray Foam Genie.

Ale Antonini

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