What Do I Do If My Insulation Gets Wet?

Insulation is designed to keep your home comfortable and energy efficient, but when moisture enters the picture, it can cause serious problems. Wet insulation loses its ability to regulate temperature, can lead to mold growth, and may even compromise your home’s structural integrity. At Allstar Insulation in Waco, Texas, we help homeowners identify and repair moisture-related insulation damage quickly to restore comfort and safety. Here’s what you should do if you discover wet insulation in your home.

1. Identify the Source of Moisture

Before you can fix the problem, you need to find out where the moisture is coming from. Common causes include roof leaks, plumbing issues, high humidity, condensation, or flooding. If your insulation is in the attic, check for missing shingles or damaged flashing. In walls or crawl spaces, look for leaking pipes or poor ventilation. Fixing the moisture source immediately is essential—otherwise, the problem will return even after replacing the insulation.

2. Determine the Type of Insulation Affected

The best approach to dealing with wet insulation depends on the material:

• Fiberglass batts: These can sometimes be salvaged if they’re only damp and dried out quickly. However, if they’re saturated or compressed, they must be replaced.

• Blown-in cellulose: This type of insulation absorbs water easily and should always be replaced if wet. Moisture can cause it to clump, lose effectiveness, and grow mold.

• Spray foam insulation: Closed-cell spray foam resists moisture and can often remain intact after minor water exposure. However, open-cell foam can absorb water and may need replacement.

Knowing your insulation type helps determine whether drying, replacement, or a full removal is necessary.

3. Act Quickly to Prevent Mold and Damage

Time is critical when insulation gets wet. Within 24 to 48 hours, trapped moisture can lead to mold growth, which affects air quality and poses health risks. If the affected area is small and accessible, you can try removing wet material and drying the surrounding surfaces with fans and dehumidifiers. For larger or hard-to-reach areas like attics and walls, it’s best to call professionals like Allstar Insulation to safely remove and replace damaged insulation.

4. Inspect for Hidden Damage

Moisture often seeps deeper than it appears. Once wet insulation is removed, inspect the surrounding wood, drywall, and framing for signs of rot or mold. Even if the surface looks dry, residual moisture can remain trapped and cause long-term damage. Our team uses moisture meters and thermal imaging to ensure the area is completely dry before installing new insulation.

5. Replace with the Right Material

When it’s time to replace the insulation, choose a product that suits your home’s needs and helps prevent future problems. Closed-cell spray foam or properly installed fiberglass insulation can provide improved resistance to moisture and air leaks. We can also install vapor barriers or attic ventilation systems to further reduce the risk of condensation.

6. Prevent Future Moisture Issues

Prevention is key. Schedule regular roof inspections, maintain gutters and downspouts, and ensure proper attic ventilation to keep humidity in check. In crawl spaces, consider encapsulation or a moisture barrier. With proactive maintenance, you can avoid future water damage and extend the life of your insulation.

Trust Allstar Insulation to Restore Comfort and Efficiency

If your insulation has been exposed to moisture, don’t wait until it leads to bigger problems. The experts at Allstar Insulation provide professional inspection, removal, and replacement services to keep your home dry, efficient, and comfortable year-round.

Contact Allstar Insulation in Waco, Texas, today for a professional assessment and fast, effective solutions for wet or damaged insulation.