Dangerous Attic Insulation

Dangers of asbestos contaminated vermiculite insulation in your home vermiculite insulation between floor joists in attic vermiculite is a popular insulation material but much of the vermiculite used in the u s.

Dangerous attic insulation.

In case of a fire it gives off an extremely toxic smoke that is more dangerous than regular smoke. If you ve ever come in contact with fiberglass you already know what it can do to your skin. The major attic insulation dangers from this type of material would come from combustion. Find a diagram of common air leaks here.

Fiberglass insulation is not generally considered to be dangerous but it can irritate the skin and respiratory system. Although some homeowners have used it in this way it was never approved for use in the attic. Gaps in the attic or between the lower floors and the attic will let heated or cooled air escape to the great unconditioned outdoors making any insulation you add essentially useless. Asbestos is dangerous because it contains what is known as fibrous crystals.

The tiny fibers of glass from insulation wool can irritate your skin and eyes. Homeowners can also come across fiberglass insulation during repairing or clearing out the attic. If you experience too much contact with fiberglass it can cause what s called irritant contact dermatitis or inflammation of the skin. If the insulation is not properly sealed off it can get into air vents and circulate through the building.

Vermiculite was a common attic insulation product sold from the late 1920s to the early 1990s. One of the most common materials containing asbestos fibers is attic and wall insulation. These fibers consist of millions of microscopic fibrils. During the 20th century was contaminated with asbestos.

In older homes specifically asbestos may be found in many different materials from pipe insulation to flooring adhesive to roof shingles. Asbestos hardly needs an introduction anymore as most homeowners should be schooled in the general dangers of disturbing and breathing asbestos fibers. Video of the day. These are thin visible fibers.

It could be purchased locally and could be installed by contractor or homeowner. Unfortunately almost all vermiculite insulation contains asbestos and is unsafe when disturbed. While there is no clear proof that fiberglass can cause cancer many people choose to err on the side of safety and replace their old insulation with green non toxic insulation materials.