Health Risks
Replacing your insulation matters from a climate perspective — but old insulation may also pose a health risk to some people.
Over several years the build-up of dust, dirt and rubbish, as well as vermin faeces and nests, can be significant. No roof cavity is airtight, so these hazards seep through the smallest cracks — not to mention ventilation fans, light fittings and ducts spreading unwanted germs into the air in your house. For anyone who suffers from asthma or dust allergies, that build-up is a major health risk, and removing this preventable trigger helps you breathe easy with less irritation.
The type of insulation in your roof also affects health differently. Newer materials have fewer allergy triggers, and in some cases are allergy free.