Totally agree about moisture sneaking in—it's relentless. Spray foam can be effective, but I've found natural insulation options like sheep's wool or cellulose breathe better and handle humidity surprisingly well. Did a remodel with wool insulation a few years back; zero mold issues so far, and no lingering smells either. Worth considering if you're sensitive to chemicals or odors... just my two cents.
"Did a remodel with wool insulation a few years back; zero mold issues so far, and no lingering smells either."
Interesting experience, but I'd caution against assuming wool or cellulose is always the safer bet. I've seen cellulose insulation settle significantly over time, reducing its R-value and effectiveness. Wool can be great, but it's pricey and sometimes tricky to source reliably. Spray foam, despite the chemical concerns, offers consistent air sealing and structural rigidity—especially useful in older homes with uneven framing. Just something to weigh before committing fully to natural insulation...
"Did a remodel with wool insulation a few years back; zero mold issues so far, and no lingering smells either."
That's reassuring to hear—especially about the mold. Every insulation type has its quirks, but wool's breathability definitely helps manage moisture. Glad it's working out for you long-term!
Did wool insulation in our attic last year—felt like I was tucking the house into bed, lol. No mold or funky smells so far, either. Honestly, the biggest hassle was convincing my partner it wouldn't smell like a wet sheep every time it rains... thankfully, I won that bet. Breathability seems to be key; glad it's holding up for others too.
Great to hear your wool insulation is working out well—especially the absence of mold or odors. I recently finished my first attic insulation project using cellulose, and I can definitely relate to your concerns about breathability. From what I've researched, wool's hygroscopic properties make it particularly effective at managing moisture, which is probably why you're not getting that dreaded wet-sheep smell. Your partner's skepticism was understandable, though; natural materials do tend to raise eyebrows initially. I'm glad your experience aligns with the technical data I've come across—it's reassuring to hear real-world feedback matching the theory. Keep an eye on humidity levels occasionally, just as a precaution, but sounds like you're on solid ground so far.
