Name of insulation?

[Mike Lamb]

I know this insulation was used at least into the 1960s. It probably contains asbestos. Does anyone know the name? This building is from 1917 but I doubt it is that old.

Edited October 19, 2019 by Mike Lamb

[Les]

homosote.  not always asbesto containing. 

 

Quote

 

 

[BADAIR]

tectum

[Bill Kibbel]

That's fiber-cement roof decking, not insulation. It's made with wood fibers and doesn't contain asbestos.

[John Ghent]

Very much not homasoate.  What Kibbel said.

Homasote Sound Barrier Sheathing 1/2 in. x 4 ft. x 8 ft. R-1.2 Sound Board

[Les]

just when you think you know it all.  been calling it that forever and now I learn I'm wrong.  I thpught it was principally wood/cellulose fiber etc with cement or similar bonding.

[Jim Katen]

How about this one? Sent to me by another inspector. Used as backer for plaster in a 1908 Masonic Lodge. Looks like an organic predecessor to Tectum. Anyone familiar with it? 

[BADAIR]

looks like tectum from mi casa

are they sure it's not a retrofit replacement for a previous ceiling

 

[Jim Katen]

Possible, but unlikely. 

[Bill Kibbel]

In my experience, there were 2 types of fiberboard used for backing plaster.  One is made from the waste fibers from processing sugarcane.  This was the original product of the Celotex Co.  The other is made with wood fibers.  What's in he picture is likely the latter.

The appearance (large, long coated fibers) and building age leads me to think it is Universal Insulite.  It was a popular brand.

[Jim Katen]

Thanks, that's probably it. I found a good description in this 1920 Sweets Catalog. 

[Les]

Wasn't there a product in the eighties called Euroboard that was a backer also.

 

[Bill Kibbel]

I don't remember anything from the 80s. Don't want to.  I saw a photo recently showing my hair and how I dressed.

Did you mean 1880s?

[Chad Fabry]

This why I come to TIJ. Good thread, good information.