Attic insulation is a key component of a home that can help maintain a comfortable interior temperature, reduce the amount of heat that is lost in the winter, and help retain cool air in the summer. It also helps save energy by reducing the time that your HVAC system needs to run. Many homes lack insulation in one or more areas. It’s common for an attic to have minimal insulation. Let’s look at the basics of attic insulation and why you should consider an upgrade.
Attic Insulation Placement
Heat rises, which is why attic insulation is so critical. Most homes have more heat at the top of the structure, which allows more heat to escape through cracks, gaps, and holes in the roof structure. Insulation in your attic is usually placed between any nearby living space and the top roof structure. The thermal resistance this insulation provides is called the “R-value.” When you have a high R-value, this means that your insulation is working well to resist heat flow from one space to the other.
Different Types of Attic Insulation
Different types of insulation can be used in your attic. What you choose may depend on several factors, such as your budget, location, accessibility, personal preferences, and more.
Fiberglass Insulation
Made from glass fibers, fiberglass insulation is common and quite affordable. Fiberglass insulation usually comes in large rolls of batting that can be cut and placed wherever needed. You will usually see this type of insulation fitted in between joists and studs. It can be blown into tight spaces as well. The benefits of fiberglass insulation are that it is non-flammable and highly resistant to moisture and mold growth.
Cellulose Insulation
Made from recycled paper, cellulose insulation is installed using a professional insulation blower. This evenly distributes the product, which has been treated with chemicals to make it fire- and moisture-resistant. Cellulose insulation is environmentally friendly and boasts a higher R-value than fiberglass insulation.
Spray Foam Insulation
This is an excellent product that is worth the investment. Spray foam attic insulation is applied as a thick, wet product that expands and eventually hardens into a thick, foam-like material. It quickly seals any leaks that are present and creates a dense barrier against moisture and air. Spray foam insulation is available in both open-cell and closed-cell varieties. You can expect to pay more for this type of insulation, but it’s worth the cost. You might even be eligible for tax breaks and incentives available to offset the cost.
Spotting Insulation Upgrade Needs
Does your home need an insulation upgrade? Many do. Here’s how you can find out if it’s time to refresh your attic’s insulation.
Surging Energy Bills
If you’ve noticed that your energy bills have soared excessively during extreme weather or extreme temperatures, your lack of insulation may be to blame. While some increases are natural during extreme weather events, a properly insulated home should be capable of maintaining its temperature without significant energy losses and increases in energy bills.
Hot or Cold Spots
If you notice that certain rooms of your home experience hot or cold spots, you might have some drafty areas in your attic.
Condensation or Moisture in Your Attic
If you notice that moisture is making its way into your attic, there are open spaces that are allowing this to occur. It’s time to seal up these areas with insulation to prevent structural damage and mold growth. We can also help to repair these areas before installing the insulation, so the problem is addressed permanently. This will also protect the integrity of your roof.
If you are interested in having additional insulation installed in your attic, reach out to our team here at Totally Cool Heating & Air. We also offer heating and cooling repair, maintenance, and equipment installation. We address indoor air quality concerns, install solar window screens, perform duct sealing, and perform duct replacement. We also work on mini-splits and hybrid heat systems.
Contact Totally Cool Heating & Air today to schedule an appointment with someone from our knowledgeable team.
