The Facts About Insulation Mold Growth

Do the fiber materials used to make mineral wool insulation contribute to mold growth? No way, says a new report from the North American Insulation Manufacturers Association. “The fibers and binder materials used to make mineral fiber insulations do not provide a nutrient source for mold growth,” says the report. What’s more, “testing in accordance with UL and ASTM standards confirm that mineral fiber insulation does not support mold growth.”

Here are the facts, as NAIMA sees them: 1) Controlling water is the most practical way to prevent microbial growth. 2) Mold growth is not surface specific. 3) Mineral fiber insulations do not foster mold growth. 4) Mold growth can be prevented. 5) A decision to replace wet mineral fiber insulation is a very subjective one.