Is My Attic Insulation Making Me Sick?

I can't diagnose your illness, but hopefully this information helps you investigate the possibility that your attic insulation is playing a role if you’re feeling ill after installing attic insulation. If you're concerned about your health, it's always best to consult a doctor. Attic insulation itself usually isn't directly responsible for illness, but there are a couple of ways it could be indirectly affecting you.

Dust and Allergens

Any time you disturb an attic, especially one that hasn't been accessed in a while, you'll stir up dust, animal dander, and other allergens that can irritate your respiratory system. Fiberglass insulation, the most common type, can also cause itchy skin and eye irritation if fibers become airborne.  Fiberglass, the most common type of insulation, has tiny fibers that can irritate your lungs if inhaled.  High levels of exposure to airborne fiberglass may aggravate existing asthma or bronchitis-like conditions. These fibers can cause coughing, wheezing, and even temporary scarring in the lungs. Even non-fiberglass insulation types can have dust and other small particles that irritate your airways.

Mold Growth

If your attic is humid or poorly ventilated, moisture can build up in the insulation and lead to mold growth. Mold spores can trigger allergies and asthma, and in some cases, exposure to mold can cause more serious health problems. In rare cases, older homes might have vermiculite insulation that contains asbestos, a dangerous mineral that can cause serious health problems if inhaled.

Here's What You Can Do

If your symptoms started recently after having new insulation installed, dust or fiberglass irritation is the most likely culprit. Mold exposure can take weeks or even months to cause noticeable symptoms.

• Improve ventilation: Make sure your attic is properly ventilated to prevent moisture build-up. This may involve installing vents or ensuring existing ones are functional.
• Air sealing: Sealing air leaks around vents, pipes, wires, and other penetrations in your ceiling can help prevent conditioned air from reaching the attic and contributing to moisture problems.

If you're having persistent health problems you think might be related to your attic insulation, it's best to consult a qualified professional for inspection and remediation. At Koala Insulation of Central CT, we’ll send a technician to evaluate your insulation and create a remediation plan that suits your lifestyle and budget. Give us a call or simply fill out the web form on our website.