Identifying Attic Insulation

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Identifying attic insulation.

I am trying to identify the type of insulation in my attic. On 2020 07 26 by james identify insulation in a 1944 home in virginia. Some of the insulation types discussed above are the result of new technology. It looks to be a white batt type insulation.

I suspect the insulation is original. It could be loose fill asbestos fiber and is extremely dangerous. Mooney moses knows that a job is only as good as the crew that does it and that s what makes us different attention to detail technical expertise and a commitment to quality. Examine the pipe coverings in your home.

The types of insulation that were most commonly made with asbestos are loose fill also called blown in insulation. It has a sparkle or shine in the sunlight. Older types of insulation include loose fill or batt fiberglass which can be pink yellow or white. Asbestos is actually a natural fiber so if your attic insulation looks like wool there is a slight chance that it will contain asbestos.

Asbestos insulation can also look like a cardboard covering. If your attic or wall insulation is in batt or blanket form whether it s fiberglass cellulose or another material you generally don t have to be concerned about asbestos. Loose fill insulation comes in a variety of materials. This type of insulation was usually used on steam heating pipes between 1910 and 1980.

Looking across your attic if the insulation is level with or below the attic floor joists you probably need to add more insulation. Look for blanket type coverings around the elbows and valves of your pipes. Keep an eye out for light fluffy fibers that are used as insulation. Attic ventilation works on the principle that heated air naturally rises primarily utilizing two types of vents.

Look for loose fibers between your walls and in your ceilings. While this type is often still used older insulation may be discolored or torn and is therefore less effective. If you cannot see any of the floor joists because the insulation is well above them you probably have enough and adding more insulation may not be cost effective. Blanket insulation is available as batts or rolls and is the easiest diy insulation material.

Rafter vents or insulation baffles install in any rafter space. This type of insulation. They could also be found stuffed in paper bags and inserted into floor joists. There are many different kinds of wool like insulation that are man made and do not have asbestos but if your attic insulation looks like wool than it is best to be safe and have it tested by a professional.