Often overlooked by homeowners is the need to replace outdated or deteriorating attic insulation. Sometimes you may notice a rise in your energy bill, and just think that energy prices are going up. However, it could also mean that your insulation needs to be replaced.
It’s easy to forget about your insulation because it’s intentionally hidden away, out of sight. Still, old or deteriorating insulation could be causing you to pay much more for energy than is necessary, plus could be causing other problems to your home, including exposure to moisture and mold.
There are many different kinds of insulation, and each has a specific purpose and expected life-span. The climate where your home is located also plays a role in the effectiveness of your attic insulation. An attic services professional can help you assess whether or not you have the right insulation in place, and whether or not it is still an effective barrier.
What do I need insulation for in the first place?
Apart from your walls and roof, insulation is the barrier that keeps the elements out of your home and keeps the cool or warm air inside. It is one of the most important elements in home construction. Insulation lines your walls and attic, as well as crawl spaces. Your attic insulation plays an incredible role in keeping your home cool or warm, with good insulation saving you an average of 35% on your energy bill.
There are many different kinds of insulation, all playing a different role. Fiberglass insulation, cellulose insulation, and foam insulation are just a few you may have heard about. Some work better in your walls, some are best for the attic, while others are perfect for crawl spaces. An attic service professional will have all the answers you need in order to understand how best to insulate your home.
How often does insulation need to be replaced?
The kind of insulation that is installed in your home and where it is installed are the primary factors in determining when it needs to be replaced. Some kinds of insulation are designed to last for many years, while others may need to be replaced more often. If it is exposed to moisture or pest infestation, it may also need to be replaced sooner than later.
There are a couple of general guidelines that you can use to help determine whether or not you may need to replace your insulation. First is the age of the home. If it is more than 15 years old, you will want to have the state of your insulation assessed. Another primary factor is exposure to moisture and whether your area is prone to rain or heavy fogs – both can cause mold or other damage to your insulation.
Attic insulation, in particular, is more susceptible to exposure to moisture than the rest of your home. It’s also often where pests and other unwanted visitors can find a nest. Keeping your insulation in good shape will not only help with your energy costs but also help keep your home healthy.
In the end, the best way to know if your attic insulation or other insulation needs to be replaced is to give us a call and have one of our attic service professionals give you a free inspection. We’ll check to make sure that your insulation is still active as an effective barrier for your home.
