Attic insulation is a critical part of a home’s energy efficiency and should be a major focus for anyone wanting to reduce their heating costs. Not only does it save you money, but it also protects your property and keeps your home more comfortable.
The best way to assess whether you need insulation is to check for air leakage. If your attic is leaking, it means that there are gaps and cracks in the roof and walls that are letting in air and causing your heating system to work harder than it needs to. You should look for any signs of water damage as well to make sure that you aren’t experiencing any mold or mildew issues.
There are two common types of attic insulation: loose-fill and batt. Both methods can be used to insulate the attic, and they are effective at keeping heat in during cold weather and preventing hot air from entering the house during warmer months.
Loose-fill insulation is often made from cellulose, fiberglass or mineral wool and is blown into attics or finished wall cavities through suitably drilled holes. This type of insulation is a good choice for homes that haven’t been properly insulated and offers a good level of protection against air leakage.
Fiberglass insulation is another popular option for attics and comes in batts, rolls or loose-fill forms. It’s a relatively inexpensive insulation that has good insulative properties and can be easily installed.
Regardless of the insulation material you choose, it is important to install it correctly to ensure that it provides maximum benefits. Typically, a homeowner’s best bet is to hire a professional attic contractor to perform the installation.
A trained and licensed insulation contractor can help you determine if your attic needs additional insulation and what type of material is best for your home. This is an essential step to ensuring that your home stays comfortable and energy efficient for years to come.
It is important to insulate the attic as soon as possible after you buy a home so that you can enjoy the benefits of this valuable investment. This will prevent a lot of unnecessary energy losses and will keep your home more comfortable throughout the year.
You will also notice that your electric bill is much lower. This can be especially significant if you are in an area with a very cold climate where your utility bills tend to be quite high.
If you decide to insulate your attic yourself, remember to take the following precautions:
First and foremost, be sure that you access your attic safely by climbing a ladder or using an attic hatch. You should also wear gloves and a dust mask when doing this.
When you reach the top of the attic, be sure to measure your current insulation. This will give you a clear idea of what size of insulation you need to complete the job.
After you have completed the insulation, be sure to air seal your attic and replace any aging insulation that may have been damaged or degraded. This will prevent the heat from escaping and will help your HVAC system to run more efficiently.