Questions & Answers on Urea-Formaldehyde Foam Insulation

What Is Urea?

• In its organic form, urea is the by-product produced when the body metabolizes protein. As such, it is found in the urine of humans, mammals, amphibians and some fish. However, since 1828, it has also been manufactured synthetically. A synthesis of ammonia and carbon dioxide, it can be made as a liquid or a solid. It is found in an array of products, from fertilizers and washing detergents to pesticides and hair-coloring treatments.

What Is Formaldehyde?

• Formaldehyde is a synthetic aldehyde compound, typically manufactured in liquid form. It is used in glues, paints and preservatives as well as for embalming dead bodies. Formaldehyde is also a by-product of combustion, so it is found in vehicle emissions and smog.

What is Urea-Formaldehyde Insulation?

• Urea-formaldehyde insulation is a foam insulation. It is injected into the cavity walls of buildings to provide a thermal barrier, preventing excess heat from escaping the home or entering from outside. The two components are mixed with a foaming agent, and the insulation is injected into the walls through small holes using an air pump. It hardens within minutes and settles over approximately a week. It expands and hardens, filling the cavity space. It can be used to insulate attics, basements and crawl spaces.

Is It Dangerous?

• Urea-formaldehyde insulation was commonly used in residential construction up until the 1970s. However, concerns over its safety, particularly the prospect of formaldehyde vapors being emitted, caused it to be banned in many countries. The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission banned its sale as of 1982. The Environmental Protection Agency states that formaldehyde can irritate the eyes, nose and throat, trigger asthma attacks and may even cause cancer. However, the evidence that urea-formaldehyde insulation is dangerous to human health is inconclusive. A review in the Canadian Medical Journal of urea-formaldehyde studies found no conclusive evidence that the insulation was detrimental to health. The Connecticut Department of Health states that the risk of urea-formaldehyde insulation releasing dangerous vapors is highly unlikely unless the insulation is damp, uncovered or cracked.

Can it Be Removed?

• Even though the health effects of urea-formaldehyde insulation are inconclusive, particularly once it is in situ, its presence in a home may affect the property’s resale value. Homeowners may wish to remove it. However, the process of removal is very expensive as the walls must be opened to remove the foam and the cavities treated with chemical solutions. Removal must only be performed by professionals who have an official permit to do so.