Safety

FAQs - Safety

I have asthma, or my children suffer from allergies. Will this product affect us at all?
Eco-Insulation's cellulose fibre insulation is non-allergenic and non-toxic. The product consists of harmless cellulose (paper) fibres that are not a known allergen. To this cellulose is added an environmentally-friendly flame retardant, similar to well known household chemical, borax.
We have had rats nesting in our ceiling; won't the insulation just encourage them?
Eco-Insulation's product is unfriendly to rodents; although not harmful they find the material irritating and therefore prefer to nest elsewhere.
We have a very old house and I think lots of bugs in our ceiling, how will the insulation affect them?
Eco-Insulation's product does not contain insecticides but is treated with a special additive that is unpleasant to insects of all kinds. The insulation rids the ceiling of insects and ensures they do not return.
Can insulation be removed and reused?

While some insulation types can be reused if in good condition, cellulose fibre insulation is usually not reused once removed. It’s better to replace it with new material to ensure optimal performance and compliance with safety standards.

How does ceiling insulation affect indoor comfort?

Ceiling insulation helps maintain a comfortable indoor environment by reducing drafts, keeping temperatures consistent, and minimizing the need for constant heating or cooling adjustments. This leads to a more pleasant and stable living space.

Does insulation prevent roof leaks?

Insulation itself does not prevent roof leaks, but it can help identify areas of moisture ingress when inspecting the roof. Proper roof maintenance, alongside insulation, is essential to prevent leaks and protect your home.

How often should insulation be checked or replaced?

Insulation should be checked every 5-10 years, especially if you notice changes in indoor comfort or rising energy bills. While cellulose fibre insulation can last 20-30 years, external factors like roof leaks may necessitate earlier replacement.

How does insulation affect the performance of attic fans?

Insulation enhances the performance of attic fans by helping to maintain a cooler temperature in the attic space, particularly during hot weather. When insulation is properly installed, it reduces the amount of heat that escapes into the attic from the living areas below, which can otherwise cause the attic to overheat. This reduction in heat allows attic fans to work more efficiently because they don’t have to work as hard to expel hot air. Consequently, this helps lower the overall temperature in your home, reduces the load on your air conditioning system, and improves overall energy efficiency.

Can insulation help with temperature regulation in other parts of the home, like walls and floors?

While ceiling insulation primarily affects heat transfer through the roof, it can indirectly help regulate overall indoor temperature. For optimal efficiency, insulating walls, floors, and other spaces can further enhance energy savings and comfort throughout your home.

Can insulation reduce noise from heavy winds or storms?

Yes, insulation can significantly reduce noise from heavy winds, storms, and other outdoor disturbances. Dense insulation materials, such as cellulose fibre and mineral wool, act as sound absorbers, dampening the noise that enters your home. By adding a barrier that blocks sound waves, insulation minimizes the impact of external noises, making your home quieter and more comfortable, especially during extreme weather conditions. This soundproofing benefit is particularly valuable in areas prone to strong winds, rain, or hail.

Can insulation help control indoor air pollution?

While insulation itself does not filter air, it plays a crucial role in controlling indoor air pollution by sealing gaps and cracks in your home’s envelope, which can prevent outdoor pollutants, dust, pollen, and allergens from entering. Insulation helps maintain a stable indoor environment by reducing drafts and air leaks, leading to improved air quality. Additionally, using non-toxic insulation materials like cellulose fibre ensures that no harmful chemicals are emitted into your living spaces, contributing to a healthier indoor environment when combined with proper ventilation.

Is there a difference between attic and ceiling insulation?

Yes, there is a difference between attic and ceiling insulation. Ceiling insulation is installed within the ceiling cavity, directly above the living spaces, to prevent heat transfer between the roof and the interior of the home. Attic insulation, on the other hand, is often installed on the attic floor, walls, or roof deck, depending on the design of the attic space. Attic insulation focuses on maintaining the attic’s temperature, preventing extreme heat or cold from affecting the rest of the home. Both types work together to improve overall energy efficiency, but their placement and purpose differ slightly based on the home’s structure.

What is the best time of year to install ceiling insulation?

Ceiling insulation can be installed at any time of the year; however, the best time to install it is during the warmer months, typically in spring or summer. Installing insulation before the onset of cold weather ensures that your home is properly insulated and energy-efficient when temperatures drop. It also prepares your home to maintain a comfortable indoor climate and reduces the demand on your heating system in winter. In the summer, installing insulation can help keep your home cooler by reducing heat gain, leading to immediate benefits in comfort and energy savings.