Blown-in
Cellulose, fiberglass, and rock wool are typically blown in by experienced installers skilled at achieving the correct density and R-values.
Insulation That Likely Does Not Contain Asbestos
Rock wool insulation – Fibrous, soft, and cottony insulation that is gray, white, or cream-colored, and may be installed as loose fill or batts. Loose-fill fiberglass insulation – Fluffy, white insulation that resembles cotton candy and has a slight shine.
Vermiculite-asbestos insulation resembles rocky gravel. It is installed by pouring it into the desired location. Insulators also refer to it as “loose-fill” and “blown-in” insulation. Colors to look out for in these pebbles are grayish, brown, or silvery gold.
In general, the color of insulation doesn't equal better performance over another color. Whether it's pink, white, brown, or yellow—color doesn't influence dependability, reliability, or the products effectiveness.
Blown fiberglass comes in three common colors: white, pink or yellow and the colors simply identify the manufacturer. Blown-in fiberglass insulation in attics typically has an R-value of 2.5 per inch.
Fiberglass is by far one of the most thoroughly tested building materials and can be installed in the form of batt or blown-in insulation. Fiberglass is eco friendly, non-flammable, safe to install and maintains its thermal performance for the life of the building.
1989: Asbestos Ban and Phaseout Rule
The EPA issued a final rule on July 12, 1989, that prohibited new uses of asbestos in products. The rule also prohibited companies from manufacturing, importing, processing, or distributing asbestos-containing products in most product categories.
Cellulose insulation, made from recycled paper, is treated with non-toxic fire retardants. The visual differences include asbestos's fluffy, loose strands versus cellulose's denser, gray, paper-like appearance. Safety is a priority. Asbestos can cause health issues when airborne, necessitating professional removal.
If you have vermiculite insulation in your home, you should assume this material may be contaminated with asbestos and be aware of steps you can take to protect yourself and your family from exposure to asbestos.
The only way to be sure whether a material contains asbestos is to have it tested by a qualified laboratory. EPA only recommends testing suspect materials if they are damaged (fraying, crumbling) or if you are planning a renovation that would disturb the suspect material.
Cellulose insulation is generally grayish or bluish-gray and has a soft, fluffy appearance.
Insulation often contains fiberglass, a material made up of tiny, sharp fibers. When these fibers come into contact with your skin, they can cause small cuts and irritation, leading to itchiness. Wearing protective clothing can prevent this uncomfortable reaction when handling insulation.
White mold in the attic is commonly Cladosporium and/or Penicillium species. These fungi do not present a health risk except for people with allergies or asthma. They can grow on wood, paper products, insulation materials, and other cellulose-based items.
(R303. 1.1. 1) Blown-in or Sprayed Roof and Ceiling Insulation | UpCodes.
Blown-In Insulation (Fiberglass And Cellulose)
In most homes, loose-fill insulation can survive anywhere from 80 to 100 years before needing replacement, provided that it is not damaged.
Color: A lot of asbestos-containing insulation has a gray-brown or silver-gold color. Loose-fill insulation with asbestos tends to have a gray color to it.
Other asbestos types have blue, white, brown, or black hues, while cellulose insulation usually looks pastel yellow, gray, or tan with a fibrous or shredded paper texture.
Asbestos insulation comes in many forms and can look loose, lumpy, and fluffy like wool or hardened like corrugated cardboard or pebbly, and has a gray, gray-brown, or silvery gold color.
Asbestos is no longer added to popcorn ceilings because it's a known health risk. The chances of your ceiling containing asbestos are low for any installations in the late 1980s or after. Newly constructed ceilings don't use asbestos.
If you think there may be asbestos in your home, don't panic. Asbestos-containing materials that aren't damaged or disturbed are not likely to pose a health risk. Usually the best thing is to leave asbestos-containing material alone if it is in good condition.
Mold and Mildew Growth
Having too much insulation in your attic can allow for the accumulation of moisture. This leads to mold and mildew growth, which can be extremely bad for your health.