Mould can grow fast in a variety of environments throughout your house. Mould spores, a food source, and enough moisture are all that is needed for it to develop. Mould spores are ubiquitous on earth and almost anything cellulosic (once-living) may be used as a food source, so moisture is generally the only thing missing for mould to develop in your house. Mould prevention and management should be at the top of everyone’s “to-do” list, even if there is no such thing as a “mould-free” house.
Choosing the appropriate insulating material for the task
Many of us believe that any kind of insulation will suffice in a remodelling or new house. The incorrect sort of insulation for the job may make all the difference between years of improved comfort and headaches, as well as potential mould concerns.
Cellulose Insulation
Because of its biodegradable features and some special benefits, cellulose is a frequent component used as a loose or “blow-in” material. Cellulose insulation is an extremely environmentally friendly alternative for your house that may truly reflect your commitment to sustainability. Cellulose is often put in attics and blown into or onto walls with a binder. Because it has greater insulating efficiency and the ability to keep airflow than fibreglass between spaces, it can be an excellent choice for attics and wall cavities.
Fibreglass Insulation
Fibreglass insulation is made up of tiny shards of glass that accumulate in pockets and help to keep heat in. Because the material itself is not a source of mould, it is naturally moulded resistant. Because of the large amount of air that can pass through fibreglass, trapped particles may be filtered from the air, including food sources for mould and mould spores. Mould can grow in fibreglass if the conditions are right. Some types of fibreglass insulation may be covered or “faced” with paper products. This paper is a typical food source for mould and can be an issue if it is placed directly against damp surfaces (such as basement or crawlspace walls).
Fibreglass insulation, like all fibrous sorts of insulation, can cause condensation. Water vapour must be kept from coming into contact with cold surfaces, therefore properly placed vapour barriers are critical for fibreglass.
For damp regions of your home, such as your crawlspace or basement, extruded foam board and spray foam insulation are becoming increasingly popular alternatives because they have excellent insulating qualities, can seal most airflow leaks, and are highly resistant to moisture. Just like any other surface, dirt accumulates over time on these materials, allowing mould to grow on them. Although it is generally simple to clean off and remove mould from these surfaces, there are some concerns about the off-gassing of these substances. However, for the most part, this is not likely to be a major concern for most individuals.
To discover more about insulation, check out the National Insulation Association. Only half of the struggle to keep mould out of your walls is deciding what type of insulation to use. Installing insulation correctly is just as crucial in preventing mould growth.
