Cellulose Insulation Problems

Cellulose insulation has become very popular among various options when it comes to choosing home insulation materials. Cellulose is an organic material made by means of recycling discarded paper, which is then treated with boric acid, ammonium sulfate or sodium borate. It has a few disadvantages and here are some cellulose insulation problems that can arise:

Dust

Blown-in cellulose insulation is likely to generate too much dust through minute holes. This usually happens in cases of improper or inadequate sealing around fixtures. When dust remains indoors for a long duration especially if without carpets where dust can stay airborne, and in frequently used rooms, it can pose serious health problems to the inhabitants. Old constructions that have tiny holes in the wall can cause cellulose dust and asbestos to be blown into rooms and duct work. Certified breathing masks can be worn for safety. Another option is the use of low-dust cellulose with dampeners.

Chemicals in cellulose insulation

Chemicals contained in inks and dyes used in newspapers and those found in additives such as adhesives and fire retardants may cause health problems. This is another one of the cellulose insulation problems that involve the risk of one's health. If exposed, people may experience cough and dryness of the skin. It can also trigger allergic reactions to sensitive people like develop irritation of their eyes, nose and throat.

Heavier than fiberglass

Loose cellulose weighs more than rockwool or fiberglass if compared in same amounts. The insulation material's weight can be a problem mostly when it is meant for use on weak ceilings, considering the amount of cellulose needed to cover a given area should be three times more in weight than loose fiberglass required for the same area.

Drying Time

Wet-spray works to your advantage by providing a better seal of the insulated cavity as well as being rigid and does not settle. However, extra time must be considered in projects, because the moisture from a wet-spray insulation requires a long drying time before the drywall or sheet rock can be applied to a newly insulated wall. This additional time is well worth the wait on an environmental standpoint and in terms of energy efficiency. The drying time can be decreased by running large space heaters for a few days to even weeks, depending on the humidity of the atmosphere. The moisture levels can be monitored through a moisture meter before any drywall is applied. This is used to verify acceptable in-wall levels of moisture prior to installation.

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An experienced installer

Finding installers that are experienced in the field is one of the cellulose insulation problems you may encounter. It can be difficult and a challenge to locate installers in some areas. It is imperative that you find an experienced installer who knows and understands very well how to apply stabilized cellulose on sloped surfaces the best possible way, how to dense-pack loose fill dry cellulose correctly, and accurately perceive the adequate drying time required. Any drawback of cellulose insulation can be minimized and overcome with the right method and proper installation that is done by an expert.

Building codes

City and regional or state building codes may not be updated. Homeowners need to call the city to verify insulation approval, and it may have to provide product specifications. Both installer and manufacturer should be willing to undergo this process, saving the homeowner from any difficulties.

Most building codes require a vapor barrier, though it is not required for cellulose and may be hard to convince cities of this fact. In such cases, an appeal may be necessary, which is just a quick process. Otherwise, vapor barriers will just be installed, where options inclue include plastic sheeting or PVA paint. Plastic leaves a fairly small and insignificant environmental footprint because it only needs a thin layer, while PVA may contain toxins and other undesirable properties.