Regardless of their location or cause, leaks are bad news for homeowners. Not only can they cause extensive property damage, but any resulting mold growth can lead to negative long-term health effects.
Leaks that begin behind walls or above ceilings are often absorbed by insulation before they become visible to the naked eye. But what effect does that have? One of the top questions our customers ask is, “Is insulation ruined if it gets wet in Sacramento, CA?” The answer is that it depends on the type of insulation you have. Keep reading to learn how moisture affects different types of insulation, and what can be done about it.
Spray foam
Spray foam insulation is designed to repel water, so moisture shouldn’t affect the insulation at all. You’ll still want to clean that moisture up, though. Simply use a towel to dry the foam and then place a fan near the wet spot to dry out any extra moisture. There shouldn’t be any residual moisture on the wood behind the spray foam, but you should take a peek to ensure it’s dry.
Fiberglass
Since it’s made of spun glass fibers, fiberglass insulation won’t absorb water when it gets wet. This means the insulation won’t sustain any structural damage. However, wet fiberglass insulation is less effective. The density of fiberglass also makes it hard for the moisture to dry out, leading to potential damage behind the insulation.
Before calling a professional to replace the damaged fiberglass, you should try to get as much water out as possible. A dehumidifier and a few fans should help do the trick. Professionals know what to do about wet insulation in Sacramento, CA, so we always recommend calling them to handle any removal and replacement. But if you want to tackle the project yourself, be sure to wear gloves, long sleeves, pants, protective eyewear and a mask to avoid injury.
Cellulose
In terms of wet insulation, cellulose is the worst performer. Because it’s made of “green” materials like recycled newspapers, cellulose soaks water up like a sponge. If the leak isn’t too bad, you can remove the insulation yourself and have it replaced by a pro. Significant leaks, on the other hand, should only be handled by a professional. You may also have to call someone in for mold remediation, as there’s a good chance the water damaged the wood behind your insulation.
Consider upgrading your insulation
One piece of advice about what to do about wet insulation in Sacramento, CA is to completely update your insulation. Upgrading your insulation to spray foam can increase the comfort level of your home and reduce your monthly energy bills. Although it’s more expensive, it’s worth it!
Your go-to for fixing wet insulation
If you’re having any issues with your insulation, call our team at 5 Star Performance Insulation, Inc. On top of answering all of your questions, including “Is insulation ruined if it gets wet in Sacramento, CA?” we can replace or add new insulation throughout your home or office. Whether you’re looking to add high-end spray foam insulation, loose-fill cellulose or anything in between, we’re the team for the job.