What Happens to Attic Insulation in Toronto After a Fire?

Published on December 07, 2021

Attic fires account for about 10% of all residential fires, so it’s not that uncommon. What’s most common amongst attic fires is the conditions that make the attic vulnerable – like an electrical malfunction, a home heating failure, or even old deteriorating insulation. For homeowners who are concerned about the condition of their attic insulation in Toronto, a professional attic inspection can quickly identify if there is anything to worry about in terms of fire potential. This is the best preventative approach for any homeowner.

Attic fires are often the result of natural events. These, of course, are totally random and unavoidable. For example, lightning striking the house is simply an "act of god." And rainwater seeping into the attic can easily cause havoc with the electrical systems. But a professional attic inspection assessing the quality of your insulation will help prevent it. 

What Causes Attic Fires?

Attic fires are typically caused by anything that creates a spark. And that spark can even ignite old attic insulation in Toronto. It may be an electrical short, an HVAC problem, or a fallen tree. But whatever the source, it pays to ensure an attic that is good repair.

Here's What How a Fire Can Impact Attic Insulation and Your Home

Smoke Compromises Air Quality

After an attic fire, residual smoke and burnt materials will compromise air quality throughout the house. Burnt wood and burnt insulation will definitely affect air quality and could likely impact the health of residents (particularly those who are already vulnerable).

Structural Damage to the Home

With an attic fire, there will be structural damage to both the attic and the roof. This may well require significant repairs, retrofits, and even structural restoration. More than that, electrical wiring, plumbing pipes, and HVAC ductwork may also need replacement.

Attic Insulation Loses effectiveness

There’s no question that burnt attic insulation has to be replaced professionally. It simply will not perform as it did before the fire and will have lost most of its effectiveness as a result of the fire. Worse still, there is no way to repair or restore the burnt material.

Upgrade to Blown-in Cellulose in Toronto

Blown-in cellulose insulation is chemically treated with fire retardants to meet various fire safety standards. The material must be installed professionally, so it doesn’t pose any fire hazards. The finished installation certainly has advantages over other products.

Working with EcoComfort Insulation and Contracting 

After experiencing fire damage, homeowners re-installing attic insulation in Toronto can count on the professionals at EcoComfort Insulation and Contracting for a full-service approach – from expert attic inspection to safe insulation removal to re-installation of new materials. For residential attics, we recommend blown-in cellulose insulation. The finished install provides effective coverage in the attic and delivers R-Values that are satisfactory. This is a cost-effective product that improves energy efficiency and enhances indoor comfort at the same time. Whether it’s fire damage, mold infestation, or deteriorating insulation, attic work typically requires professional attention. This type of work should not be considered a DIY project. There are too many associated risks for the average inexperienced homeowner.    

Schedule an attic inspection in Toronto with an attic expert today!