
Understanding Different Types of Home Insulation
Home insulation is essential for maintaining a comfortable indoor temperature and improving energy efficiency. However, it can also be a target for small animals seeking shelter and nesting material. Let's take a closer look at the different types of insulation commonly used in homes. Fiberglass insulation is one of the most popular types used in homes. It's made from fine strands of glass and is excellent at trapping air, making it highly effective for thermal insulation. However, its fluffy texture makes it an attractive nesting material for mice. They can burrow into the fibreglass, reducing its insulating properties and creating pathways for cold air to enter your home. Cellulose insulation is composed of recycled paper products treated with fire retardants. It's eco-friendly and provides good thermal performance. Unfortunately, its organic composition makes it appealing to rodents. They can chew through the cellulose to create nests, leading to decreased insulation effectiveness and potential fire hazards if untreated areas are exposed. Spray foam insulation is applied as a liquid that expands into a solid foam, offering excellent sealing properties. It's less susceptible to rodent damage due to its density and hardness. However, if there are gaps or cracks in the foam, mice can still find a way in and create tunnels, compromising its integrity. Mineral wool, also known as rock wool, is made from volcanic rock or industrial waste. It's fire-resistant and has good soundproofing qualities. While it's less appealing to mice compared to other types of insulation, it's not entirely immune. Rodents can still nest in it if they find it accessible.The Damage Mice Can Cause to Insulation
The presence of mice in your home can lead to serious issues with your insulation. Mice have a natural instinct to chew on materials to keep their teeth sharp. This behaviour can result in shredded fibreglass, cellulose, or even small holes in spray foam insulation. The chewed material is then used to build nests, further reducing the effectiveness of your insulation and making your home more susceptible to temperature fluctuations. Mice leave behind urine and droppings, which can contaminate your insulation. This contamination not only reduces the insulation's effectiveness but also poses health risks to your family. The buildup of urine can lead to unpleasant odours and even mould growth, creating an unhealthy living environment. As mice burrow through insulation, they create pathways that can lead to air leaks. These pathways allow cold or hot air to enter your home, making your heating and cooling systems work harder to maintain a comfortable temperature. This increased workload can result in higher energy bills and reduced energy efficiency. The presence of mice can attract other pests, such as insects and larger rodents. These animals may follow the scent trails left by the rodents and further damage your insulation. Additionally, the combined activity of multiple pests can exacerbate the deterioration of your insulation, leading to even more extensive repairs.Signs of Mice in Your Insulation
