Fortunately, every day more people are becoming aware of the problems regarding our environment and actively involving themselves in looking after it. The insulation industry has not been left out of this positive trend; so, during the latest years, the use of recycled-sustainable materials has increased.
Though not the only ones, the new spray foam insulations are a good example of products offering a score of positive characteristics helping to keep our planet healthy.
Thanks to the absence of toxics in the application method, polyurethane foam and Cellulose Insulation are some of those more recommendable if you are willing to “go green.”
Open-cell polyurethane foam is a popular insulation that can be applied with no use of chemical blowing agents, a reason why it does not harm the ozone layer. Taking into account how many homes use polyurethane insulation, this is an eco-friendly benefit.
Made of shredded newspapers and fire retardant, Cellulose is currently one of the most environmentally friendly insulation products on the market. It is sprayed into the walls and floors and can be either wet or dry blown to ensure a superb coverage of areas with pipes, ducts or other building elements needing insulation protection.
Spray foam is an ecological alternative to the traditional types of insulating materials, such as fiberglass. If possible, seek to avoid fiberglass insulation, for it could contain formaldehyde, a harmful chemical to which you would not knowingly expose your family.
Other environment friendly products to be considered are:
Agricultural products. Insulation that uses corn, soybean oil, or sugar cane to replace petroleum-based products is becoming more popular. It is available in both rigid boards and spray foam.
Sheep's wool. A natural choice for home insulation, sheep's wool is sheared from the animal in the usual way, then fluffed and treated with pest control additives. The all-natural insulation is good for those concerned about health issues.
Greensulate. A recent winner in the Popular Science Invention Awards, greensulate is made of mushroom fibers. The fibers are blended with agricultural by-products to create a dense custom-made panel that will accurately fit your walls.
To go green, search for the insulation requirements of the US Energy Department. You will find there the minimal amounts needed according to the characteristics of your house. Take this information and be ready to installing insulation levels at least 30% higher than those recommended as the minimum.
Do not forget that Insulation Masters is also at your disposal to attending to your doubts and needs.
Other Topics:
• History of thermal insulation
• Adequate insulation
• Wet insulation
• Adding boric acid
• Differences between insulation and isolation
• Some good reasons to update insulation
• Environmentally friendly insulation