Home Safety: Comparing How Different Types Of Insulation Actually Respond To Fire

When it comes to fire safety, not all insulation is created equal. Here’s what to know:

• Spray foam insulation often contains fireproofing additives, making it resistant to flames. However, without these additives – such as what’s found in some off-the-shelf products – its flammability increases significantly. So when designing your home, make sure you look for these additives.

• For walls, rockwool batt insulation is a safer choice, but it is typically used in attics.

• Fiberglass insulation has some of the best performance in fire tests – and for added protection, versions with aluminum radiant or vapor barriers are available.

• Fire-retardant spray foam exists but are primarily used in commercial settings, and while it can be applied in homes, it comes at a premium.
Similarly, fire-retardant paint for spray foam offers some protection, but its effectiveness is questionable; intense heat could melt the foam beneath, causing the paint to collapse and expose the wall to flames.