Is Insulation Flammable? What Homeowners Should Know

Fire safety has always been a priority for homeowners, and that’s especially true with rising homeowner’s insurance costs and the increased risk of wildfires in many parts of the country. Fire-rated insulation is one way to mitigate fire risks inside and outside the home, but not all insulation is fireproof. Insulation plays an increasingly important role as property owners look for cost-effective ways to lower their fire risk.

The Strategies: Firestopping vs. Fireproofing

There are two ways to lower the risk of fire in any building. The terms “fireproofing” and “firestopping” are sometimes used interchangeably, but they do have different purposes and applications.

What Is Fireproofing?

Fireproofing includes any method that protects a building’s structural integrity from fire. Manufacturers and builders use fireproof or fire-resistant materials, coatings, and sprays to protect structural elements like walls, girders, and roofing from collapse. Most home structural elements are made from wood, concrete, or steel, although brick and some natural materials are sometimes used.

What Is Firestopping?

Firestopping prevents the spread of fire by sealing openings inside a structure. Firestopping materials like brick and composite sheets are designed to change shape when exposed to heat, filling in any gaps and preventing the fire from spreading.

So, What Is Fireproof Insulation?

Fireproof, or fire-retardant, insulation is considered both a fire-stopping and fireproofing measure because it prevents fire from spreading and maintains its structure, even when exposed to extremely high temperatures. This dual role makes insulation an incredibly important component of any comprehensive approach to fire safety.

The Benefits of Fireproof Insulation

Fireproof insulation offers several advantages over standard insulation types. Aside from being more fire-resistant, it can also reduce property damage if a fire does occur, lowering restoration or renovation costs. Fireproof insulation can also improve temperature regulation, save on energy costs, and increase the functional lifespan of home HVAC equipment.

Some insurance companies incentivize homeowners to invest in fire-resistant materials for their roofs, siding, windows, and insulation. Fireproof insulation may lower your insurance rates; check with your insurance company to see if fireproof insulation impacts your policy.

Common Types of Fireproof Insulation

There are several types of fireproof insulation made from non-combustible materials. A few examples of fireproof insulation materials include:

• Batt insulation
• Fiberglass insulation
• Mineral wool
• Cementitious compounds (derived from cement)
• Rockwool insulation, made from stone wool that is non-combustible up to 1,000 degrees Fahrenheit
• Ceramic fiber insulation, which is made from various oxide-based chemicals

Of course, there are some drawbacks. Fireproof insulation is typically more expensive than traditional insulation, and depending on your local building codes, it may not always be necessary. Your local Koala Insulation team will help you find the best fireproof insulation for your home and your needs during your consultation.

Not-Quite Fireproof: Fire-retardant vs. Fire-resistant

Only a few types of insulation are truly fireproof. Other materials, including fire-retardant spray insulation and foam board, offer considerably more options and more competitive prices.

• Fire-resistant materials are naturally resistant to fire; the term is sometimes used interchangeably with “fireproof.”
• Fire-retardant materials are chemically treated to resist combustion. They are typically less expensive and may not offer a consistent level of protection over time as their coatings degrade.

Is Spray Foam Fire Retardant?

In most cases, foam-based insulation, including most blow-in and spray foam materials, is considered flame-retardant. Check with the manufacturer to learn more about your insulation and to determine when it may need to be replaced.

Got Burning Insulation Questions?

Koala Insulation has helped thousands of families improve their fire safety and energy efficiency while making their homes more comfortable. When it’s time to install or replace insulation, our locally owned teams bring expert service and a wide selection of materials to get the job done right. We’ll even help you access local, state, and federal rebates to make the project more affordable! Let’s get started; find a Koala Insulation location today!