Have you recently peeked into your home’s attic or crawl space and noticed your insulation looks a little damp? Should you be concerned? The short answer is “it depends.” Keep reading to learn more!
Causes of Wet Insulation
Although insulation in any home across the country can experience moisture issues, we experience especially humid conditions in the summertime throughout the Houston area! It’s important to make sure your insulation stays nice and dry. There are several different ways your insulation can get wet, including:
- Leaks from the roof and/or plumbing pipes
- Ground moisture (basement and crawl space insulation)
- Air infiltration from windows, doors, gaps in siding, etc.
- Mold (spores can enter through air infiltration)
- Snow (it can be blown into the attic through a vent)
What Should I Do with Wet Insulation?
Should wet insulation be replaced? Is wet insulation completely ruined? These are questions many homeowners have. It partially depends on the type of insulation.
- Fiberglass: Fiberglass insulation is made from recycled glass and water, so this material doesn’t absorb water like other types might. However, the ability of fiberglass to insulate well can be drastically reduced when it gets wet.
- Spray foam: Closed-cell spray foam is effectively moisture-proof, so your main concern when you see water beads on top of spray foam should be to locate whatever leak is producing the water. Otherwise, your investment in spray foam should be safe!
- Cellulose: Though cellulose insulation is an environmentally-friendly insulation choice, its plant fibers soak up water and can be hard to dry out once they’ve been thoroughly dampened. It’s best to call your local insulation experts for an inspection if you notice your insulation is wet.
Enough moisture can ruin some insulation materials, in which case wet insulation should be removed and replaced. If your insulation is merely a little damp, removal may not be worth it. It’s best to have a professional take a look. There are times when new insulation can be added over old layers, but moldy, wet or otherwise damaged insulation should be removed.
Call IBP Houston for Insulation Removal & Replacement
If you need wet insulation removed in your home or commercial building, IBP Houston can help. We will remove the insulation, clean the area and install new, high-quality insulation. Whether you need to schedule insulation removal ASAP or you just have a few questions, give us a call today at 281-653-8382!
