Cellulose insulation is a state-of-the-art product that keeps your home cooler in the summer and warmer in the winter. It’s not the only insulation product on the market, but it’s one of the most versatile and cost-effective. Today’s blog from Valley Insulation discusses several reasons why you should replace spray foam with cellulose insulation for an existing residence.
Related Post: Valley Insulation Explains How We Install Cellulose Insulation
Smells
Spray foam emits noxious odors, even years after it’s been applied to walls, attics, and crawl spaces. Cellulose insulation lacks any smell whatsoever, except for a slight newspaper smell (because it’s made of recycled newspapers). But our techs install cellulose insulation in walls and then seal them up. You won’t smell it unless you go to your unfinished attic. When spray foam odors seep into your home, it’s not pleasant and it may persist.
Degradation Over Time
Spray foam degrades over time. Some spray foam manufacturers promise 25 years’ of insulating, but the reality is that commercial spray foam applications typically only last 15 years. Foam insulation degrades even worse when it’s applied in cold climates, which isn’t a problem for cellulose insulation installed in the winter.
Possible Health Hazards
Dust containing spray foam as it’s being applied may linger for years. Some substances in the foam, called isocyanates, can be hazardous to your lungs and health if inhaled. Chemicals may go airborne when exposed to heat, such as drilling, welding, sawing, or sanding near the spray foam. If you plan on doing any repairs or fix-it work, and there’s spray foam insulation nearby, you could be exposing yourself and your family to noxious fumes.
Cellulose insulation alleviates the health hazards associated with other insulation products. It’s an eco-friendly product, has fire-retardant properties, repels bugs, and can mitigate mold growth.
Related Post: How Cellulose Insulation Prevents Costly Ice Dams on Your Roof
Insulation Removal by Valley Insulation
Valley Insulation can remove your old insulation before installing brand-new cellulose insulation. Talk to us about residential or commercial insulation. Contact us or call 513.353.4100 for more information.
