Prefer fiberglass, formaldehyde-free mineral wool, or cellulose insulation. If board insulation is required, prefer expanded cork, halogen-free polyisocyanurate, or rigid mineral wool insulation. Avoid foam insulation, whether board or spray-applied, whenever possible. Use mechanical installation methods, such as fasteners, to avoid unnecessary use of adhesives. Prefer products with full disclosure of content through Health Product Declarations (HPDs).
Proposed procurement goals:
- At least 80% of insulation purchased by the municipality or used by contractors meet the HomeFree Green or Yellow level including formaldehyde limits for fiberglass or mineral wool batts, prohibition of two-part spray polyurethane foam, and halogenated flame retardants
- Preference given to products with publicly available information to encourage the use of building products that are working to minimize their environmental and health impacts
- Material ingredients documentation demonstrating the chemical inventory of the product to at least 0.1% (1,000 ppm) with all content characterized and screened
Resources:
- HomeFree insulation hazard and rating system
- HomeFree Spec Guidance