Expertly Curious
A poorly insulated attic in your Texas home can increase energy costs and lower indoor air quality. Professional attic insulation can improve the comfort of your home, boost energy efficiency, and enhance your family’s health.
Here are four health hazards associated with improper attic insulation.
1. Respiratory Problems
Improper attic insulation can cause chemical off-gassing. This is where the insulating agent releases potentially harmful chemicals into your home via evaporation. Inhaling the particles for extended periods can cause serious respiratory problems, including breathing difficulties and frequent asthma triggers.
If you notice a persistent odor in your home after insulating your attic, get professional help to improve indoor air quality and protect your family’s health.
2. Skin Problems Due to Attic Insulation
Poorly installed insulation can also lead to skin problems. If the technician didn’t follow proper installation guidelines or used the wrong substance for your environment, it may expose you to harmful irritants. For example, insulation products containing fiberglass can get under your skin.
Fiberglass can also contain formaldehyde, which irritates the mouth, nose, and eyes in people who are sensitive to it.
3. Risk of Cancer
Foam insulation products containing fire-retarding agents can release potentially carcinogenic substances into the environment. The chemicals may not bind properly to the finished insulation material, allowing them to escape into your living space.
These substances can disrupt nervous system development and thyroid hormone function.
4. Improperly Installed Attic Insulation Can Make You Sick
Foam insulation products require catalysts called amines to form and solidify. These catalysts can sometimes escape from the finished insulation because of poor handling or improper installation. They have a sickening odor, which can make people ill after long exposure.
If your attic insulation was not installed properly, it’s important to rectify the problem immediately to avoid serious health problems. At Willard Cooling, Heating, Plumbing, & Electrical, we’re committed to providing professional attic insulation to improve your health and home energy efficiency.
Contact us online or call (972) 564-9785 to learn more and get started.
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