How the Wrong Insulation Can Lead to Moisture Problems

When choosing insulation for your home or building, fire safety is a crucial consideration. Many homeowners and contractors wonder: Are insulation boards flammable? The short answer is it depends on the type of insulation board used. Different insulation materials have varying levels of fire resistance, and understanding their properties can help you make an informed decision.

Types of Insulation Boards and Their Flammability

1. Polyisocyanurate (PIR) Insulation Boards

Polyisocyanurate (PIR) insulation boards are a popular choice for high-performance insulation. These boards are made from a rigid foam core with a foil or facer material.

🔥 Flammability: PIR boards have a high fire resistance compared to other foam boards. They contain fire retardants that allow them to char rather than ignite easily. However, if exposed to extreme heat, they can still burn and release toxic smoke.

✅ Fire Safety Tip: Ensure PIR insulation is installed with proper fire-resistant barriers, such as drywall or intumescent coatings, to enhance safety.

2. Extruded Polystyrene (XPS) Insulation Boards

XPS insulation is commonly used for below-grade applications, walls, and roofing due to its moisture resistance and durability.

🔥 Flammability: XPS is highly flammable and must be treated with fire retardants. Even with additives, it can still ignite at high temperatures and release dense, toxic smoke.

✅ Fire Safety Tip: Never leave XPS insulation exposed in living areas. It should always be covered with fire-resistant materials, such as gypsum board, to minimize fire risk.

3. Expanded Polystyrene (EPS) Insulation Boards

EPS insulation is another type of foam board, often used in packaging, walls, and roofing systems.

🔥 Flammability: Like XPS, EPS is flammable and can ignite quickly. It typically has a lower melting point than XPS, making it a greater fire hazard if not properly protected.

✅ Fire Safety Tip: Use EPS only in applications where it can be fully enclosed within non-combustible materials.

4. Mineral Wool (Rockwool) Insulation Boards

Mineral wool, also known as Rockwool, is made from volcanic rock and slag, making it highly fire-resistant.

🔥 Flammability: Mineral wool is non-combustible and can withstand temperatures over 1,800°F. It does not contribute to the spread of fire and is often used for fireproofing applications.

✅ Fire Safety Tip: If fire safety is a top priority, mineral wool is one of the safest insulation board options available.

5. Fiberglass Insulation Boards

Fiberglass insulation is made from glass fibers and is commonly used for walls, ceilings, and HVAC ducts.

🔥 Flammability: Fiberglass is non-combustible, meaning it does not burn. However, the facing materials (such as kraft paper or foil) can be flammable.

✅ Fire Safety Tip: If using faced fiberglass boards, ensure the facing is installed away from direct heat sources.

How to Improve Fire Safety with Insulation Boards

Regardless of the type of insulation board you choose, proper installation and additional fire protection measures can reduce risks. Here are some key fire safety tips:

✔ Use Fire Barriers: Cover foam-based insulation boards with non-combustible materials like drywall or cement board. ✔ Choose Fire-Rated Insulation: Opt for insulation boards with higher fire resistance ratings when fire safety is a concern. ✔ Follow Building Codes: Ensure insulation meets local fire safety regulations and codes for residential or commercial buildings. ✔ Proper Ventilation: Prevent heat buildup around insulation to reduce fire risks. ✔ Install Smoke Detectors: Always have working smoke detectors in areas where insulation is installed.

Conclusion: Are Insulation Boards Flammable?

Some insulation boards are highly flammable (such as XPS and EPS), while others, like mineral wool and fiberglass, offer excellent fire resistance. If fire safety is a priority, choosing non-combustible insulation materials and following proper installation guidelines will help protect your home or building.

For expert guidance on choosing the safest and most efficient insulation for your project, contact Nealon Insulation today!

‍

Proper attic ventilation is essential for maintaining a comfortable, energy-efficient home. But how does it actually work? Many homeowners don’t realize that poor attic ventilation can lead to high energy bills, mold growth, and even roof damage.

In this blog, we’ll break down:
✅ What attic ventilation is
✅ Why it’s important
✅ How it works
✅ Signs of poor attic ventilation
✅ How insulation and ventilation work together

What Is Attic Ventilation?

Attic ventilation is the process of allowing fresh air to flow into and out of your attic. It prevents heat and moisture buildup by balancing intake and exhaust airflow.

A properly ventilated attic has:

• Intake vents (usually soffit vents) that bring in fresh air
• Exhaust vents (ridge vents, gable vents, or attic fans) that allow hot, moist air to escape

This continuous air circulation keeps your attic dry and prevents extreme temperature fluctuations.

Why Is Attic Ventilation Important?

A well-ventilated attic provides several key benefits:

🔥 Prevents Overheating in Summer

Without ventilation, attics can reach 150°F or higher in the summer! This heat seeps into your home, forcing your AC to work harder and increasing energy bills.

❄ Reduces Ice Dams in Winter

In winter, warm air from your home rises into the attic. If ventilation is poor, it melts the snow on your roof, which then refreezes at the edges, forming ice dams. These can cause leaks and roof damage.

💨 Prevents Moisture & Mold Problems

Everyday activities like cooking, showering, and doing laundry create moisture. If this moisture gets trapped in your attic, it can lead to mold growth, wood rot, and insulation damage.

💰 Extends Roof Lifespan

Heat and moisture cause shingles to curl, crack, and deteriorate faster. Proper attic ventilation protects your roof and extends its lifespan.

How Does Attic Ventilation Work?

1. Intake Vents (Bringing in Fresh Air)

These vents allow cool, fresh air to enter the attic, usually located:
✔ Along the soffits (under the eaves)
✔ At the lower part of gable walls

Types of Intake Vents:
✔ Soffit vents – Most common, allowing air to flow up into the attic
✔ Gable vents – Installed on the side of the house, providing additional airflow

2. Exhaust Vents (Releasing Hot & Moist Air)

These vents let warm, humid air escape from the attic, usually placed at the highest point of the roof.

Types of Exhaust Vents:
✔ Ridge vents – Run along the peak of the roof, allowing continuous airflow
✔ Roof vents – Individual vents that release hot air
✔ Gable vents – Allow air to exit through the attic walls
✔ Attic fans – Help pull hot air out, useful in extreme climates

🔥 Natural ventilation works best when intake and exhaust vents are balanced, creating a steady airflow cycle.

Signs of Poor Attic Ventilation

Not sure if your attic ventilation is working properly? Look for these warning signs:

🚨 High energy bills – Your AC or heating system struggles to regulate temperature.
🚨 Ice dams in winter – Icicles and heavy snow buildup near the roof edges.
🚨 Mold or musty odors – Moisture buildup leads to mold growth.
🚨 Hot attic in summer – If your attic feels unbearably hot, ventilation may be inadequate.
🚨 Curled or damaged shingles – Heat and moisture are wearing down your roof.

If you notice these issues, it’s time to improve your attic ventilation.

How Insulation & Ventilation Work Together

Some homeowners assume more insulation = better home performance, but without proper ventilation, insulation can trap moisture, leading to mold and deterioration.

✅ Cellulose insulation is an ideal choice because it regulates moisture better than fiberglass.
✅ Attic baffles (air chutes) help direct airflow over insulation, preventing blockages.
✅ Air sealing + insulation + ventilation = the best combination for energy efficiency.

At Nealon Insulation, we ensure your attic is properly insulated and ventilated to keep your home comfortable year-round.

‍

If your home feels too cold in the winter or too hot in the summer—despite having insulation—it’s natural to wonder: Why isn’t my insulation working?

Insulation is meant to keep your home comfortable and energy-efficient, but several factors can reduce its effectiveness. In this blog, we’ll explore the most common reasons insulation stops working and how to fix them.

1. Not Enough Insulation (Low R-Value)

🔍 The Problem: Your home simply doesn’t have enough insulation to meet the recommended R-value for Connecticut’s climate.

📏 Why It Matters: Insulation works by resisting heat transfer. If your insulation is too thin or insufficient, it won’t provide the protection your home needs.

💡 The Fix:

• Check your home’s current insulation levels against Connecticut’s recommended R-values:
  
  • Attic: R-49 to R-60
  • Walls: R-13 to R-21
  • Floors: R-25 to R-30
  • Basements/Crawl Spaces: R-10 to R-19
• If your insulation falls short, consider upgrading to blown-in cellulose insulation, which offers better coverage and efficiency.

2. Insulation Has Settled or Degraded Over Time

🔍 The Problem: Insulation doesn’t last forever—over time, certain types compress, settle, or degrade, making them less effective.

📏 Why It Matters:

• Fiberglass batts can sag or shift over time, leaving gaps.
• Blown-in insulation (especially fiberglass) can settle, reducing its thickness and R-value.
• Old cellulose insulation may also settle, but modern cellulose is treated to maintain its structure.

💡 The Fix:

• If your insulation is old, schedule an inspection to determine if you need more.
• Blown-in cellulose insulation is a great upgrade because it fills gaps completely and doesn’t settle as much as fiberglass.

3. Air Leaks Around Windows, Doors, and Attic Access

🔍 The Problem: Even the best insulation won’t work if your home has air leaks.

📏 Why It Matters: Air leaks allow:

• Warm air to escape in winter (forcing your heating system to work harder).
• Hot air to enter in summer (making it harder to keep your home cool).

💡 The Fix:
✔ Seal gaps around windows, doors, and attic access points with weatherstripping or caulk.
✔ Air seal your attic before adding insulation to stop heat loss.
✔ Use spray foam or rigid foam board for large gaps around pipes and vents.

4. Moisture & Mold Issues

🔍 The Problem: Moisture in your walls, attic, or basement can ruin insulation and reduce its effectiveness.

📏 Why It Matters:

• Wet fiberglass batts lose insulating power and can grow mold.
• Spray foam can trap moisture, leading to hidden mold issues.
• Poor attic ventilation can cause condensation buildup, making insulation damp.

💡 The Fix:
✔ Use cellulose insulation, which resists moisture better than fiberglass.
✔ Improve ventilation in your attic or crawl space to prevent condensation.
✔ Fix roof leaks, plumbing leaks, or foundation cracks that introduce moisture.

5. Poor Installation

🔍 The Problem: Even high-quality insulation won’t work properly if it’s installed incorrectly.

📏 Why It Matters:

• Gaps in insulation allow heat to escape.
• Compressed insulation reduces its R-value.
• Missing air sealing allows drafts to bypass insulation.

💡 The Fix:
✔ Hire a professional insulation company (like Nealon Insulation) to ensure insulation is properly installed.
✔ Choose blown-in cellulose insulation, which fills every gap and void more effectively than fiberglass batts.

6. Rodents & Pests Damaging Insulation

🔍 The Problem: Mice, squirrels, and other pests love nesting in insulation, especially in attics and crawl spaces.

📏 Why It Matters:

• Pests tear up insulation, reducing its coverage.
• Urine and droppings contaminate insulation, reducing air quality.
• Gaps created by pests allow heat loss.

💡 The Fix:
✔ Use cellulose insulation treated with borate, which repels pests.
✔ Seal entry points to keep rodents out of your attic or crawl space.
✔ Replace contaminated insulation to improve air quality and efficiency.

7. Choosing the Wrong Type of Insulation

🔍 The Problem: Some insulation materials aren’t the best choice for Connecticut’s climate.

📏 Why It Matters:

• Fiberglass batts allow air leaks and settle over time.
• Spray foam can trap moisture and be expensive to remove.
• Rigid foam board works for basements but isn’t ideal for attics.

💡 The Fix:
✔ Blown-in cellulose insulation is the best choice for most Connecticut homes—it resists settling, repels pests, and controls moisture better than fiberglass.

How Nealon Insulation Can Help

If your insulation isn’t working as it should, the experts at Nealon Insulation can help!

✔ 48 years of experience insulating homes along the Connecticut shoreline
✔ Specialists in blown-in cellulose insulation for maximum energy efficiency
✔ Free insulation inspections to find the root cause of your insulation problems
✔ EnergizeCT rebates available to help homeowners save money on insulation upgrades

‍