Exposed Fiberglass Insulation?

Question

I have a major problem. I live in a basement and cannot get myself out of here due to major financial issues. I took this as a temporary place and now have no where to go, my questions is there is fiberglass insulation all across the ceiling which is long and down one wall and then a wall in the closet. The rest of the walls have paneling. I have been here a year and a half and only recently found out how bad this could be health wise. I have been here over a year and am trying to get the people here to do something about it. Can we cover it with plastic to keep the dust in. I notice a lot of dust and you can't dust enough down here. It just comes and comes. Most of the fiberglass has the paper on it, a few spots like right here above my computer do not.

Please help. I have no where to go just yet though am trying to get out. Thanks

Answer 1

If you visit a hardware store, ask them for a clear plastic typically referred to as vapor barrier.  It can be one of the thinner thickness of material dependent on what is coming out of the ceiling/wall.  Get enough of the material to not only cover the opening but also to lap.  

When you install the plastic, make sure that you lap it on the studs or joists.  The installation can be done with a staple gun.

Also, a dust mask and eye wear should be worn when installing the plastic to prevent any of the insulation or debris from getting into your eyes, lungs, etc.  

Answer 2

Yes I would cover it with plastic for now.   I doubt that your apartment is legal, so if you complain to some authority about it you will only get yourself evicted.

Answer 3

Covering it with with plastic is the best move you can make cost wise.It will do no damage to the insulation,and will keep the dust down.

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Answer 4

You can cover it with sheet plastic and staple it to the studs or joists. The plastic is cheap at Home Depot.