Can insulation be allowed to get wet and still be effective?

Question

Can insulation be allowed to get wet and still be effective?

Answer 1

NO.  Insulation works by the trapped air spaces between the glass fibers. When it gets wet it fills these air spaces with water, as a result the R value or resistance to the flow of heat or cold is reduced.  however when the insulation dries out it should be ok

Answer 2

I would say no due to the mold issue.  That is unless it is a special type of insulation.  Check with the manufacturing company in order to find out the specifics of the insulation you are using.

Answer 3

Please define "WET" if you are just bringing it in from the garage after cutting it .... into the housr and a little or few raindrops get on it then just shake it off and let set awhile before tacking in place.... BUT if totally like sponge like soaked with water, I would say NO because of the Mold issue! It would have to be totally dry before use!!!!!

Answer 4

If you are using a man-made material like fiberglass, then yes, it can get wet and still be effective AFTER IT DRIES. The insulation must be allowed to dry completely before it is installed (or re-installed), but you may loose some of its effectiveness because it will probably be more compacted as a result of the wetting.