Being a victim of improper insulation can be quite a pickle. It leads to heat loss and a substantially high billing price. Additionally, poor insulation can lead to water damage, rusting, frosting, and many other problems in the long term. If you want to ensure that your loved ones live in the most comfortable home possible, simply make sure that your house is properly insulated and entrust known professionals such as https://atticconstruction.
How to Tell If Your Attic Needs More Insulation
Increased Utility Bills: Poor, damaged, or thin insulation allows heat and air conditioning to escape, resulting in higher bills. A noticeable or consistent uptick in heating and cooling costs may indicate insufficient attic insulation. You can conduct an attic inspection yourself or enlist the help of a professional. If you detect a significant amount of hot or cool air escaping, it’s likely time to upgrade your attic insulation.
Water Leaks: Water leaks are a clear sign of inadequate or damaged attic insulation. Homes with subpar insulation are prone to water infiltration and should be promptly addressed to prevent mildew, mold, and water damage.
Frozen Pipes: While not always indicative of poor attic insulation, frozen pipes suggest potential insulation issues. It’s advisable to have a professional assess your insulation and address any underlying problems promptly.
Cold Rooms and Drafts: Cold rooms in your home may signal insulation deficiencies, particularly if the issue originates from the attic. Seeking professional inspection can identify the source of the problem and prompt necessary insulation upgrades.
Pest Infestations: Increased numbers of pests, such as mice and bugs, can indicate compromised attic insulation. Mice and insects may enter homes in search of food, highlighting the need for insulation repairs or replacements.
If you suspect improper installation or damage to your insulation, don’t hesitate to reach out to us. We specialize in insulation services and commercial building design, ensuring that your insulation issues are addressed promptly and effectively on the first attempt.
Types of Attic Insulation
There are five primary types of attic insulation, each with its own advantages and disadvantages:
Insulation Rolls: These are commonly used in attics, placed between joists and studs to prevent air from escaping the house. Available in lengths of 20 to 40 feet, insulation rolls are suitable for longer attic spaces.
Foam Board Insulation: Although considered versatile, foam board insulation is not frequently used in attics. These rigid panels, made from polyurethane or polystyrene, are suitable for use on steel and wood surfaces.
Loose-Fill Insulation: Typically composed of fiberglass or cellulose, loose-fill insulation can be sprayed or blown into individual openings in walls or over existing insulation. It is favored for attics, floors, and walls due to its ease of handling and suitability for various framing options.
Vapor Barriers: While not technically insulation, vapor barriers are used in conjunction with new or existing insulation to regulate moisture levels. They include house wraps that serve as moisture moderators.
Spray Foam Insulation: Primarily employed to seal vents, doors, or openings near attic ladders, spray foam insulation is not typically used to replace existing insulation entirely. Instead, it fills gaps to improve insulation efficiency. Easy to apply, trim, and quick to set, spray foam insulation is a convenient option for addressing insulation gaps.
Preparing Your Attic for Insulation
To ensure your attic is ready for insulation, follow these steps:
Remove Old Insulation: Start by removing any old insulation. Failure to do so and sealing leaks before installing new insulation can lead to future problems. While not necessary every time, it’s essential for long-term insulation effectiveness, especially as advised by professionals.
Ensure Adequate Ventilation: Check that your attic has sufficient ventilation. Eaves are typically present to allow air to escape from the house. Ensure these areas are unblocked to maintain proper airflow.
Seal Air Leaks: Identify and seal any air leaks, often found near attic steps and doors. Installing weather stripping in these areas can effectively seal off leaks, preventing air infiltration.
Check Electrical Connections: Before insulating, inspect electrical connections for signs of water damage or wear. Protect electrical wires from damage during the insulation process.
Insulation for Hot Climate
When insulating your house for hot climates, consider using blown-in insulation. It offers affordability, straightforward installation, and significant energy bill reduction.
Factors to Consider for Attic Floor Insulation:
Airflow: Ensure that the insulation does not obstruct airflow, whether it’s through gable vents, soffit vents, or ridge and off-ridge vents.
Tube and Knob Wiring: If your attic contains active knob and tube wiring, avoid covering or disturbing it during insulation to prevent fire hazards. Have an electrician remove the wiring promptly if necessary.
Insulation for Cold Climates
In colder climates where heating your home is a priority, specific insulation techniques are essential for maintaining warmth and preventing issues like ice dams.
Consider the following:
Roof Insulation: Properly insulate your roof to prevent snow melting and causing ice dams. Insufficient insulation under the roofing can lead to heat loss from the top of your house.
Doors and Windows: Insulate doors and windows using a variety of weather-stripping options available in the market, both temporary and permanent, to keep cold air out and warmth in.
Chimneys: Insulate your chimney by ensuring it has a tightly sealing flue. Keep it closed when not in use to prevent warm air from escaping. Remember to open it when using the fireplace and close it afterward.
Baseboards: Seal drafts around baseboards by caulking and painting the junction between the floor and wall. This area is prone to air leakage and can contribute to heat loss.
Electrical Plumbing Penetrations
Inspect every location where pipes or wires pass through the walls of your house for drafts. Seal any leaks originating from outside the house with caulking. Additionally, install gasket covers on all light switches and outlets, as they represent significant openings in your walls.
Attic Insulation Done Right
If you have realized or if you suspect that your insulation is improperly installed or is damaged, you can rely on our services whether the issue is at your home or in your place of work. We boast some of the most experienced and friendly technicians you can find in the industry. HB McClure is the perfect choice if you want to get the right solution the first time.
We do residential and commercial heating and cooling installations, repairs, and maintenance. We offer a variety of HVAC products, including ductless mini-split systems and humidity control systems. Our crew can take care of your water and plumbing system in your bathroom and kitchen among many other services you home in Harrisburg might need. Call us today!
