Attic insulation helps to ensure comfortable living conditions exist in your home. However, many homeowners do not realize that insulation can significantly impact indoor air quality.
It is essential to be aware of the potential impacts of attic insulation on air quality so that you can take the necessary steps to mitigate any adverse effects.
1. Mold Growth
A common way attic insulation can affect indoor air quality is through mold growth. Mold spores are everywhere but require moisture and a suitable temperature to grow.
If attic insulation becomes wet through leaks or condensation, it provides an ideal environment for mold to grow. As mold grows, spores are released into the air, which can cause respiratory problems, eye irritation, and even pneumonia.
2. Water Damage
Another way attic insulation can affect indoor air quality is through water damage. If your attic insulation becomes wet, it can break down and rot. This process can release several harmful chemicals into the air, including volatile organic compounds (VOCs).
These chemicals can cause serious health issues, including:
- Headaches
- Dizziness
- Nausea
- Stomach pain
- Respiratory issues
Formaldehyde is a common VOC found in insulation and is known to cause cancer. It will begin releasing dangerous fumes when the insulation gets wet, so it is vital to have any water damage repaired immediately.
3. Allergies
Allergies are another common problem exacerbated by attic insulation. If your attic insulation is home to mold or dust, these allergens can be released into the air when the temperature in your attic rises.
This release can trigger reactions in people allergic to mold or dust, causing various symptoms such as sneezing, watery eyes, and runny noses.
4. Pests
Pests can wreak havoc on attic insulation if left unchecked. Mice and rats are attracted to your warm attic in winter, and they can cause damage to insulation as they build their nests. This damage can result in insulation for homes becoming less effective and can provide an entry point for more pests into your house.
Hantavirus is a disease spread through rodent waste and can be fatal. Therefore, it is essential to take precautions when dealing with pest infestation, and attic insulation should be removed and replaced if pests have damaged it.
5. Asbestos
Companies once used asbestos for insulation, a chemical that can seriously threaten indoor air quality. Asbestos fibers are extremely fine and airborne, making them difficult to manage and avoid.
Inhaling these fibers can lead to various health problems, including lung cancer. If you suspect that your attic insulation may contain asbestos, it is essential to have it tested by a professional.
6. Old Insulation
The age of your attic insulation can also affect indoor air quality. As insulation ages, it can break down and release dust and other particles into the air.
This release can cause a variety of respiratory problems, and it can also trigger allergies in susceptible individuals.
Check for Insulation Issues with Blower Door Testing
There are several ways to know if you need to replace your attic insulation. You can look for any visible signs of damage, such as water stains or mold growth, and also keep an eye out for signs of pests. If you suspect asbestos, you can also take a sample of the insulation and have it tested.
However, one of the easiest ways to check for insulation issues is by utilizing blower door testing. This is a method of checking for airtightness in your home and can help identify areas where leaks are present. Leaks can cause air-conditioned air to escape, which results in you wasting money.
Replacing Insulation
If you are worried about the air quality in your home, it is crucial to have your attic insulation checked regularly. And if you find that it is wet, damaged, or home to mold, dust, or pests, it is essential to replace it as soon as possible.