The fluffy, pink appearance of fiberglass insulation is a common sight in building envelopes all across the province. Its inexpensive nature makes it accessible for all business owners, while still being incredibly effective. Getting the most out of this cotton candy material does require a small amount of upkeep, but the long-term benefits are more than worth it. This week, we are going to talk about the three best ways to ensure your fiberglass insulation is as efficient and long lasting as possible.
Have it Properly Installed
Although walls and other surfaces to be insulated may appear straight and smooth from the outside, nooks and crannies run rampant inside them. Gaps that are not filled properly create a literal hole in your protective barrier. In fact, even a small gap in insulation could reduce its R-value by up to 50 percent. This is why it is so important to have fiberglass insulation professionally installed. Experienced technicians will account for all the irregularities and make a plan to ensure nothing gets missed. Not only this, but the tiny glass fibers that make up the material are notorious for getting into eyes, ears, and throats, causing severe irritation. While this doesn’t affect the energy efficiency of the material, it is an important factor to take into consideration. Don’t put yours or your people’s health at risk by attempting a DIY project in an attempt to trim your budget. We promise you that the return on investment for a proper installation will be quick.
Don’t Get it Wet
Much like a loveable gremlin when it gets wet, fiberglass that’s been exposed to water can turn your biggest efficiency ally into an unsuspecting menace. There are two main problems that occur when moisture is introduced into the insulation system:
- Reduced R-Value. Without the ability to dry thoroughly and quickly, wet fiberglass loses almost all of its insulating properties; rendering it virtually useless.
- Mold & Decay. Because fiberglass allows airflow, mold spores can travel quickly through the material. The moisture also tends to settle at the bottom of the cavity, resting on wood surfaces and causing premature decay.
The solution to this is a vapour retardant barrier. This keeps the fiberglass insulation dry and working effectively.
Conduct Annual Maintenance
All systems are prone to wear and tear over time. Extend the lifespan of your properly installed insulation by ensuring it is inspected annually. A mechanical insulation contractor will be able to determine if damage has occured in the form of compression, moisture, or physical gouges. Any problems that arise can be quickly dealt with before they affect the entire system. If your facility has recently experienced flooding, inspections are especially important as they can determine the extent of the damage right away.
When used properly, fiberglass insulation is a great material for a wide variety of applications. Follow the tips above to ensure you’re taking full advantage of all its benefits! If you’re ready for a quote from your local full service insulation contractor, call the experts at Westcal Insulation today!
