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About UFFI Foam Insulation
Urea
Formaldehyde Foam Insulation (UFFI)
is a highly expandable foam that
became a popular residential
insulation in the mid- 70’s.
However, Canada banned UFFI in 1980
because it was suspected to be a health
hazard. The U.S. followed suit in 1982
and, although the ban was lifted in 1983,
UFFI has been rarely used since that
time. In many instances, the foam materials
were being mixed improperly, resulting
in an excess of formaldehyde gas
being released in the home. The better
insulated the house was, the more of
a health hazard the trapped gas posed to
its inhabitants.
Insulation was not the only culprit. Formaldehyde
gas also came from other construction
material and furniture, including to plywood, carpets,
paper products, cleaners, and tobacco smoke.
No one can tell if a house contains UFFI just by looking. If a
homeowner suspects his house
is contaminated, extensive testing can be performed by an
environmental specialist.
Gases below the prescribed level of 0.1 parts per million (ppm)
are considered harmless and no
further action is required. Fortunately, the levels decline
rapidly after the first year
of exposure, so an average household has the air quality of
.03 ppm formaldehyde gas.
UFFI has the appearance and feel of dried shaving cream. It is
crumbly and leaves a powdery
residue. However, visual detection is not conclusive. Positive
identification can only come through lab testing.
Homeowners should be aware that a similar product,
"foam-in-a-can," emits no such
toxic gas. Icynene, which is water-based, has been used in new
construction since the early
1990’s.
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continued
from front page...
Poor
Ventilation
Excessive moisture from
unvented cooking areas or
bathrooms can damage plaster and promote
the growth of fungus or mold.
It is imperative to correct ventilation
problems because the damage
becomes excessive.
Older/Leaking Roof
Asphalt roofs have an average lifespan of
15 to 20 years. Of course, it’s hard to ascertain
how old a roof is visually, unless it
is extremely new or extremely old. Excessive
Air Leakage
A cold or drafty home is often the result of poor
weather stripping, badly fitted doors, insufficient
attic seals, or aging caulking. Fortunately,
this should be a quick and inexpensive
fix.
Environmental Issues
A homeowner should receive professional advice
if the findings on his inspection report
include asbestos, formaldehyde, leaking
underground tanks, contaminated drinking
water, radon gas, or lead-based paint.
A gas station nearby may also pose a health
threat.
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