Green Building Community
Cellulose Insulation
Posted by: Frank // Disruptive Technology Scientist
I have been trying to find out about Cellulose Insulation, the newspaper stuff.
Last winter my attic leaked water came in onto the Cellulose Insulation.
My question is when Cellulose Insulation gets wet does that mean mold will
grow in the Cellulose Insulation?
Do I need to remove all the Cellulose Insulation?
The information I am finding on-line is contradictory.
Is there going to be mold growing in the Cellulose Insulation?
Insul8 // Insulation Specialist
Frank, it really depends on when the cellulose was installed. Most modern day cellulose is treated with borate which is a natural mold inhibitor, as well as, a fire retardant. In addition, the paper is hygroscopic which means it disperses the moisture quickly. With proper attic ventilation, this means the cellulose will dry out fast and not allow the mold to grow (no water = no mold). While the water was present, the borates will inhibit the mold growth until it does dry. However, if the cellulose was an early version (say, pre-1977), it may not have been treated. Prior to about 1977, cellulose was not required to have a fire treatment in them. There were a lot of homes stuffed with paper and you can imagine what happened in a fire. Now that the fire retardants are required, homes are much safer. So, based on the age of your home or when you know it was insulated, will be the answer to your question.
StyroHome // Super Insulated, Passive House, Net Zero
The fastest way to destroy your house today is by using the wrong insulation techniques and insulation That thing you hear about on the news "Climate Change" has made the insulation choices more important that in the past. Fibrous insulation holds moisture and with Climate disasters today we see more water and insurance payouts rising with many not even being covered for acts of nature. Water soaked fibers that say in wall for a few hours must will not dry itself, and must be removed and then replaced with new materials after the wood frame is totally dry. So I would avoid this type of insulation at all costs.
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