Fiberglass Insulation Debate

We recently received a letter, excerpted below, from CertainTeed Corp. in Valley Forge, PA, the manufacturer of InsulSafe III, a blow-in fiberglass insulation.

Dear M&O: I would like to point out two things concerning the section [of the "New Green Home" issue] on Insulation. First, there are some fiberglass insulations, like our InsulSafe III, that do not contain formaldehydes. Second, although cellulose is often chosen because it is made from recycled newspapers, most people don't stop and think about all the inks and chemicals used in making newspapers. And, cellulose must be treated with fire-retardant chemicals.

--Thomas A. Newton, Manager

CertainTeed Corp. claims that its insulation has fewer chemicals from dyes and flame retardants. This doesn't mean the product is completely chemical-free, however. Also, remember that fiberglass is a lung and skin irritant and a suspected carcinogen. Generally fiberglass does not pose a threat to the inhabitants of a house, but the particles can become airborne during installation and appropriate measures, such as the use of a mask, should be taken at that time.

Mr. Newton's claim about cellulose made of recycled newspaper is valid. However, according to Paul Novack of Environmental Construction Outfitters (ECO), cellulose can be made of a variety of products, including corrugated cardboard which is ink-free. In choosing cellulose insulation, you should find out the material it is made of. If it is a recycled material, consider the toxicity of the original material.

Here are some companies that sell different types of less-toxic insulation:

• Air Krete, 315/834-6609

• Greenwood Cotton Insulation Products, 800/546-1332

• International Cellulose Corp., 800/444-1252

• ECO, 800/238-5008