FIBERGLASS-FREE INSULATION FROM DOW GAINS MOMENTUM

SAFETOUCH™ Fiberglass-Free Insulation is an itch-free alternative that performs as well as traditional fiberglass insulation.

MARIETTA, Ga. – November 11, 2009 /PRNewswire/ — First launched in 2007 in a very select group of markets, SAFETOUCH™ Fiberglass-Free Insulation is now available in 53 demographic market areas (DMAs). Manufactured from the same polyester fibers as clothing and bedding, SAFETOUCH™ has become increasingly popular as an itch-free alternative to traditional batt insulation. No special protection, gloves, or goggles are required when using SAFETOUCH™ because the product does not irritate skin and does not create glass dust. It is similar to its fiberglass counterparts in terms of sound deadening capabilities, R-value, and durability, and also offers additional benefits not found in other insulation:

• Flexible – easily fitted and repositioned.
• Friction fit – holds itself in place in most cases, so there's no need for staples. For ceiling applications it can be stapled or nailed with standard equipment.
• Workable – score the facer with a knife then tear by hand. Unfaced batts do not need to be cut and can be torn to length by hand. No gloves, goggles, or special equipment required

"Homeowners who would not otherwise consider insulating a do-it-yourself project because of the itch and mess of fiberglass can now use SAFETOUCH™ to complete the project instead of hiring a professional installer," explains Chad Holzer, operations market manager of Dow Building Solutions, North America. "The product is also popular among contractors, especially when insulating as part of a bigger project. They can use SAFETOUCH™ in tandem with other tasks since it does not require special protection and is easy to work with, which saves time and money."

Some of the most common areas to use SAFETOUCH™ include a home's exterior stud walls, sound deadening interior walls, basement walls and ceiling, attic floors, and crawl spaces. Under the new American Recovery & Reinvestment Act of 2009, homeowners who purchase SAFETOUCH™ may be eligible for a tax credit of up to 30% of the amount paid for the qualified energy efficiency improvements. The Dow Chemical Company manufactures STYROFOAM™ Branded Extruded Polystyrene (XPS) Foam Insulation, along with GREAT STUFF™ Insulating Foam Sealant, which also qualify for the tax rebate.

About Dow

Dow is a diversified chemical company that combines the power of science and technology with the "Human Element" to constantly improve what is essential to human progress. The Company delivers a broad range of products and services to customers in approximately 160 countries, connecting chemistry and innovation with the principles of sustainability to help provide everything from fresh water, food and pharmaceuticals to paints, packaging and personal care products. In 2008, Dow had annual sales of $57.4 billion and employed approximately 46,000 people worldwide. The Company has 150 manufacturing sites in 35 countries and produces approximately 3,300 products. On April 1, 2009, Dow acquired Rohm and Haas Company, a global specialty materials company with sales of $10 billion in 2008, 98 manufacturing sites in 30 countries and approximately 15,000 employees worldwide. References to "Dow" or the "Company" mean The Dow Chemical Company and its consolidated subsidiaries unless otherwise expressly noted. More information about Dow can be found at www.dow.com.

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