Can Fiberglass Insulation Get Wet? How To Take Action

As a homeowner, one of your main priorities is to maintain a comfortable and energy-efficient home. Doing so requires proper insulation. While there are a variety of materials out there for insulation, fiberglass is a common and popular choice due to its affordability and effectiveness.

A common issue you might encounter as a homeowner is what do to do if your fiberglass insulation gets wet. 

In this blog post, Insulation Pros will explore the potential consequences of water damage on fiberglass insulation and why you should address it quickly with the help of a professional.

It’s important to understand how fiberglass insulation works so you can be prepared incase of any sudden damages. 

Fiberglass insulation is made of tiny glass fibers that are tightly packed together. These fibers create air pockets that are great at trapping and slowing down the transfer of heat. Fiberglass insulation is usually installed in walls, ceilings, nd attics to provide thermal insulation and enhance energy efficiency.

How Does Water Affect Fiberglass Insulation?

While fiberglass insulation is moisture-resistant to some extent, prolonged or heavy exposure to water will cause significant problems. The fiberglass insulation in your walls doesn’t work like a sponge; instead, a process called “wicking” occurs when in contact with water and the moisture is drawn up along the fibers.

Signs of Water Damage in Fiberglass Insulation

Being able to detect if water or other moisture has come into contact with your insulation is really important. Here are the signs to look for:

• Discoloration: Wet fiberglass insulation may look darker or discolored compared to dry insulation.
• Odor: You may notice a damp or musty smell if your insulation has water damage or potential mold growth.
• Compaction or Sagging: With excessive moisture, your insulation may start to sag and lose its shape which reduces its effectiveness.
• Mold or Mildew Growth: If you see fuzzy patches and discoloration on the surface of your insulation, it’s a clear sign of water damage.

If you notice any of these signs or suspect water damage, be sure to call an insulation professionbal immediately to avoid further issues or health risks.

Consequences of Wet Fiberglass Insulation

Reduced Thermal Performance and Energy Efficiency

Helping your home to maintain a comfortable temperature and providing thermal resistance is one of the main purposes of fiberglass insulation. However, when it gets wet, that ability to transfer heat becomes a struggle. This can lead to higher energy bills and temperature imbalances.

Increased Risk of Mold and Mildew Growth

The presence of moisture in fiberglass insulation creates the perfect atmosphere for mold and mildew growth. Once this happens your indoor air quality is compromised and can cause respiratory health issues or trigger allergies. If you notice yourself or your family coughing, sneezing, or having persistent allergies inside the home, it may be your cue to inspect insulation.

Potential Structural Damage

Water-damaged fiberglass insulation can have more dangerous consequences beyond the previously mentioned consequences. Moisture can further seep its way into the structural components of your home, like drywall or wooden beams, which can cause decay, wood rot and instability. If this happens, you may also require wood rot repair.

It’s very important to address wet fiberglass insulation quickly to properly prevent these issues from growing into greater consequences down the road. By doing so you are protecting you, your family, and your home. 

Should I Hire A Professional To Handle Wet Insulation?

If the time comes that you have to replace wet fiberglass insulation, we highly recommend to seek out professional assistance. Working with experienced professionals offers many benefits that will save you time, effort and a lot of stress.

People who work with insulation for a living, like our team here at Insulation Pros, have seen just about everything when it comes to water-damaged insulation. We already understand the complex process of assessment and replacement and won’t second-guess anything.

Hiring a professional will also open the door to the highest-quality insulation materials and tools needed to do the job right. Insulation Pros guarantees a properly sealed and insulated space to give your home maximum energy efficiency.

If you suspect your fiberglass insulation has become wet or is suffering from severe water damage, call us today for your free insulation evaluation!