Eco-Experts: Learn About Insulation Options, Rust-Proofing and Composting Dog Waste
Get the eco-friendly answers to your questions.
July/August 2003
By Natural Home Staff
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Joe Hurst-Wajszczuk
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Insulation options
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My husband and I are interested in further insulating our attic and insulating our floor/crawl space. We want something breathable and nontoxic. We are concerned about the standard fiberglass.
—Sarah Carson, via e-mail
Believe it or not, fiberglass insulation is relatively natural. It's made from silica sand and as much as 30 percent recycled glass. What's more, it's inexpensive, resistant to mold, and indigestible to insects. However, the microscopic slivers of glass irritate uncovered skin, and greater exposure to the particles can lead to permanent respiratory ailments. Some researchers suggest it can induce cancer. In addition, some batts contain formaldehyde-based binders that may outgas after installation.
To address the particle problem, all the major manufacturers now offer sealed batts. The perforated polyethylene sheeting controls loose particles and doubles as a vapor barrier. To solve the formaldehyde problem, Johns Mansville now uses a nontoxic acrylic binder. Owens Corning has developed a product that binds fibers together without chemicals.
If you're still concerned about fiberglass, there are other options. Mineral wool insulation is similar to fiberglass, but the fibers are derived from iron-ore blast furnace waste. Although heavier and more expensive than fiberglass, mineral wool is more moisture-resistant and maintains its insulative properties when wet. During handling, however, small pieces can break loose, which raises health concerns similar to fiberglass.
Made from recycled newspaper, cellulose insulation is not only cheaper but also provides more insulation per inch than standard fiberglass. Cellulose is available as blow-in or loose-fill insulation. Unfortunately, cellulose insulation also contains flame retardants and binders and may contain dyes, synthetic resins, gums, varnishes, and solvents that are the result of using recycled newspaper. Although it has not been determined to cause a health risk, blowing in cellulose is dusty work. People who cannot tolerate the odor of a fresh newspaper should not overexpose themselves during installation. Once installed, cellulose sometimes settles (leaving uninsulated pockets in your walls) and loses efficiency if it gets wet. If allowed to remain damp, cellulose can harbor mold.
Cotton is possibly the safest material for both the installer and home occupants. Available in batts or loose-fill, it costs about twice as much as fiberglass. But it's not perfect and conventional cotton is also one of the most chemically demanding crops in the United States.
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