Fiberglass Insulation Problems: Things To Watch Out For
Popularity does not always equate to excellence. For example, fiberglass is one of the most preferred insulating materials today. Many homeowners choose this type of insulation because of the low price and high availability. Others just go with whatever everybody else is using. Don’t make the same mistake. It may be suitable for some applications but not for others. Look into alternatives before making a decision. Learn more about its pros and cons. The following is a rundown of the common fiberglass insulation problems encountered by homeowners:
Common Issues With Fiberglass Insulation In Colorado
Contents
Below we discuss some of the issues that arise with fiberglass insulation.
Fiberglass Insulation Causes Irritation
As the name suggests, the material comes from strands of glass. Individual particles are small enough to go unnoticed. They are also light enough to float in the air and land everywhere, including furniture and clothes. If they get in contact with the skin and eyes, they can cause irritation. If they get inside the lungs, you have an even bigger problem. Don’t try to install it yourself. Fiberglass installation is the job of experts. They can do it safely using the right gear and techniques. They can even clean up after themselves to protect the health of your family.
Air Passes Through Fiberglass Insulation
Properly installed fiberglass still has limitations. It can reduce heat flow, but it allows air to pass through its pores. If there is a strong wind outside during the winter, you may feel cold drafts inside your home. Some sections may feel colder than others, depending on the level of air sealing. Dropping temperatures will make your furnace work harder to produce more heat, consuming more energy in the process. You will end up paying higher bills to stay comfortable. If you could block that cold air, you can enjoy lower bills. Solid insulation, such as spray foam, is a good option if that’s what you are after.
Fiberglass Batt Insulation Catches Impurities
The air passing through the insulation carries impurities like dirt, dust, pollen, pet dander, mold spores, and other allergens. Fiberglass catches them, making them part of the structure. This is not a good thing. HVAC air filters also catch impurities and wreak havoc if not replaced within a few months. Meanwhile, insulation stays on for years despite the high number of allergens lodged inside. If disturbed for any reason, these may get inside and circulate in the home. People who are sensitive to these particles are likely to experience discomfort. Other forms of insulation don’t have the same issue. You may want to use these instead if you have allergies.
Fiberglass Insulation Performs Poorly When Wet
Fiberglass is a decent insulator for areas with moderate climates. However, its ability to block heat flow suffers when wet. The material can suffer if there is a gap in the exterior that lets in rain or humid air. The same is true in case of flooding inside the house. Even if it only affects a small section, the problem can spread over time. Be mindful of water damage. Some homeowners think that everything is fine once the flood subsides, but the effects will linger unless they address the problems created by excessive moisture and condensation. If you need to replace your insulation, opt for materials like spray foam that repel water.
Pests & Fiberglass Insulating Materials
Small gaps along the walls may be big enough for insects and rodents to get inside. These pests often pull at the fiberglass, making the insulation coverage uneven. Heat can escape through the affected areas and make them feel cold. The pests may also make the fiberglass their home. Their droppings can stink up the house. Their bacteria can spread illness in the family. Figure out where they are coming from and eliminate the source. You may need to remove the damaged insulation and install new material that isn’t as fragile.
Fiberglass Insulation Has Low R-Value
Every region has a recommended R-value based on the prevailing climate. This is the level of heat resistance needed to keep a home comfortable when temperatures swing to the regional extremes. Fiberglass can provide values of 2.2 to 4.3 per inch. If you still feel discomfort, maybe it’s time to upgrade to a material capable of R7 or higher. It can make a big difference in terms of energy consumption since you will no longer feel the need to crank up the air conditioner or the furnace. That should help you recoup the cost of replacement.
Fiberglass Batt Installation is Hard
There is a misconception that fiberglass is easy to install. People who love doing DIY projects choose it because of this idea. However, industry experts disagree. If you want excellent results, you must be a highly skilled installer. After all, you will have to make several exact cuts to make the fiberglass fit into every cavity. If you don’t do it right, you will create gaps that reduce its effectiveness. Hire a specialist for the installation.
Conclusion
Don’t follow others blindly. Their motivations may be different from yours. You must think about what you need and figure out what you want out of the insulation. Consider the fiberglass insulation problems mentioned above. Is your home vulnerable to any of these? If so, look for other insulating materials. Spray foam is a good option if you are aiming for a high R-value, longevity, air sealing, and water resistance. Whichever you end up choosing, hire experts for the installation. They will help you acquire the best products and maximize their potential.
Fiberglass Insulation Problems Fort Collins CO
When creating an airtight seal to improve the thermal envelope of your home, working with a professional insulation company is a great strategy. They can consider all of the necessary factors that will improve efficiency, comfort, and more. Ascend Construction specializes in insulation removal and installation, energy conservation, energy audits, whole house fan installations, and more in Fort Collins, Colorado, and the neighboring areas.
Contact Ascend Construction for a free consultation today. We can provide you with practical solutions to address the problem areas in your Fort Collins home. All of our services are affordable, and our work is guaranteed. Click here to contact us, or click the button below to give Ascend Construction a call. We offer free, no-obligation, in-home consultations.