What You Need to Know About Cellulose and Mold In Your Attic
Published on July 14, 2021
Because the attic space is out-of-sight in most homes, mold can often grow and spread on attic insulation in Toronto without being noticed early on. Mold needs favourable conditions to thrive, and attics can often provide the perfect storm. In addition to moisture and darkness, attics are full of insulation, a feeding ground for mold. However, certain insulation products actually prevent mold.
Cellulose blown-in insulation, for example, does not provide a good feeding ground for mold, unlike other insulation materials. If the cellulose gets totally saturated, there may be potential for mold to grow, but typically cellulose insulation is safely treated to prevent mold growth.
Cellulose insulation works well in preventing air moisture from collecting, and that prevents mold from growing. The important thing is if you suspect that mold may be infiltrating your attic, to get a professional attic inspection of your attic insulation in Toronto. At EcoComfort Insulation & Contracting, we handle a full range of safe, affordable, and effective attic services, from blown-in insulation and inspection to mold remediation.
How Does Mold Become a Problem?
Not all mold species will pose a health hazard, but any mold infestation is problematic and should be removed. Mold will grow primarily where there is excessive moisture and poor ventilation. And the attic tends to be the perfect environment. Once infiltrated, the mold will spread slowly and steadily, eating away at potential feeding sources. It means that everything from wood to drywall to insulation is food.
Why Does Mold Grow in Attics?
Attics are dark, humid and poorly ventilated – three conditions that will allow mold to fester and grow. When the attic is properly air sealed and appropriately vented, there’s little chance that moisture will collect and promote mold growth. When mold does have the opportunity to grow, the attic also provides the necessary food sources, like wooden beams, drywall separations, and certain types of insulation.
Preventing Mold Growth Completely
Preventing mold growth is all about controlling the conditions that lead to mold. A dry, well-ventilated space will not allow mold to grow. And this is where a professional attic inspection can be valuable. At EcoComfort Insulation & Contracting, attic experts assess the roof cavity for air leaks, issues with the insulation, and overall ventilation. Addressing these issues will also address the potential for mold.
Installing Blown-In Cellulose Insulation
Because some insulation products underperform with regards to mold growth, many installers recommend blown-in cellulose as a good option for the attic. The product has proven itself to provide an effective sealing “envelope” throughout the attic and therefore provides optimum moisture control. Along with air sealing and proper ventilation, the combined “system” works to prevent mold.
Upgrading Attic Insulation in Toronto
In Toronto and throughout the GTA, EcoComfort Insulation & Contracting specializes in cellulose blown-in insulation. We provide a full-service approach with a team of highly skilled insulation professionals. Best of all, we do it all – from attic inspections to insulation removal to re-installation of new materials. To get your project going, we offer a comprehensive attic inspection that includes recommendations for repairs, retrofitting and upgrading.
Call us today to find out about a comprehensive attic inspection in Toronto!
