Is insulation in the attic dangerous?

One of the main health risks associated with improper attic insulation is an increased likelihood of respiratory problems. If someone did not install your attic insulation properly, the insulating agent may cause chemical off-gassing.

Is it bad to breathe in attic insulation?

Inhaling the particles for extended periods can cause serious respiratory problems, including breathing difficulties and frequent asthma triggers. If you notice a persistent odor in your home after insulating your attic, get professional help to improve indoor air quality and safeguard your family’s health.

What is the safest attic insulation?

Blown-in cellulose is an excellent option for an attic because it will fill all the joist spaces completely with very few air gaps.

• Loose cellulose is made of 85-percent recycled material, mostly ground-up newspaper.
• It resists rot and mildew, and is treated with boric acid as a fire retardant.

Does fiberglass dissolve in lungs?

A small percentage of fiberglass fibers can reach the lungs, but most of those fibers are dissolved and removed by the body within 10 days of exposure by inhalation.

What happens if you breathe in fiberglass insulation?

Direct contact with fiberglass or breathing airborne dust containing fiberglass may irritate the skin, eyes, nose, and throat. The symptoms of irritation are often nonspecific, temporary, and may include itching, coughing, or wheezing.

How much insulation should be in Attic?

The recommended level for most attics is to insulate to R-38 or about 10 to 14 inches, depending on insulation type. When adding additional insulation, you do not have to use the same type of insulation that currently exists in your attic.

What is the best insulation for attics?

and foam insulation.

offers ease of installation for any do-it-yourself homeowner.

but it does require a machine rental

What is the recommended insulation depth for an attic?

In temperate coastal areas such as Zone 3, attic insulation of at least R30 up to a maximum of R60 is recommended. For loose-fill cellulose, this translates to a total depth ranging from 8 inches up to 16 inches.

How much insulation do you need in your attic?

The amount of insulation recommended for your home is dependent on where you live, but here are some general guidelines: Attic Insulation: Houses in a cold climate should have a minimum of R-49 in the attic, which is equivalent to approximately 16″ of fiberglass insulation.