Cellulose Insulation & Water Damage

While cellulose insulation provides excellent insulating and soundproofing qualities, it, like most insulation, can sustain water damage. Unfortunately, once the effects of water damage have set in, you must remove the insulation to prevent further structural damage.

Damaged Wall Covering

The most obvious sign of water damage is the sagging and warping of wall coverings. While cellulose can absorb water to a certain degree before fiber saturation occurs, this can be detrimental to the more vulnerable wall coverings that will need replacing once wet.

Reduced R-Value

Because cellulose insulation absorbs water and sags under the weight, the water damage can lead to reduced R-value ratings. The sags create gaps and holes that allow heat to escape, limiting its insulating properties.

Increased Risk of Fire

Cellulose insulation contains boric acid as a fire retardant. Over time, however, repeated exposure to water damage can rinse away this chemical component and leave insulation vulnerable to fire.

Corrosion and Structural Damage

The chemicals used to treat cellulose insulation become corrosive when wet and will eat through electrical wires, plumbing fixtures, and metal roof supports such as nails and fasteners.

Mold and Mildew

The only signs of water damage that cellulose seems to escape are mold and mildew. The boric acid is a natural anti-microbial compound that prohibits the growth of fungus spores.

References

• National Fiber: "Spray Applied Cellulose and Moisture Facts" See Cellulose Insulation
• University of Massachusetts-Amherst: "Cellulose Insulation -- A Smart Choice" See Paragraph 5
• U.S. Department of Energy: "Cellulose Insulation Material"

Resources

• Better Insulation: "A Bit about Mold and Mildew"