How Often Should You Inspect Your Attic Insulation?

Did you know ninety percent of homes in the United States are poorly insulated? As a homeowner, it's important that you prioritize your home's insulation, specifically in the attic.

If you are unaware of the condition of your attic insulation, it may be time for a replacement. Continue reading to learn about the signs.

What is the Purpose of Attic Insulation?

Attic insulation helps control the airflow inside a home. Specifically, the amount of warm and cold air that enters the living spaces of your home.

During the winter, without insulation, heat leaves the home. This creates unwanted drafts and lower temperatures inside the home.

Whereas in the summer, warm air enters the space. In turn, the house becomes hot and uncomfortable for those living there. Insulation helps regulate the temperature inside the home.

Due to the ability to maintain the house's internal temperature, insulation helps lower energy costs. According to the EPA, homeowners save fifteen percent each year on their heating and cooling bills.

How Often Should You Inspect Attic Insulation?

The U.S. Department of Energy and other experts recommend homeowners inspect their attic insulation annually. Since attic insulation consists of organic materials it can be easily damaged. Here is a list of signs your insulation has damage or is inadequate. 

Water Exposure

Getting your insulation wet can be detrimental to composition, as well as your health. Wet insulation often produces mildew and mold. A common cause of wet insulation is a leak in the roof.

Pests

Finding pests in your attic insulation can be detrimental to your health. Pests contaminate the insulation by leaving droppings and urine on the material. The wrong type of insulation primarily causes this problem.

Freezing Pipes

Insulation provides a layer of protection for the pipes inside your home. Poor insulation can cause the pipes to freeze, and in some cases, burst. This can cause more damage to the surrounding materials, which can be expensive.

Why Hire Professionals for Insulation Replacement?

There are two options when approaching attic insulation replacement. You can try to replace the insulation yourself or you can hire professionals. Hiring professionals is the easier option, and here's why.

Safety

Installing insulation can be a dangerous job if you are not trained or have the proper equipment. Most insulation contains fiberglass that can irritate the eyes, lungs, and skin. Not to mention, the insulation may have mildew or droppings on it.

Proper Disposal

A regular garbage can is not an option when disposing of insulation, due to the fiberglass. Professionals have location connections to properly disposed of it. There can also be fees for disposing of fiberglass materials.

Adequate Preparation

Professionals are aware of what makes the insulation inside of a home effective. They know how to properly layer each of the materials needed for a properly insulated attic, and the amount they need. Lastly, they know how to navigate around in small dark places.

Learn More About Insulation

Attic insulation is a vital part of a home, so it needs to be properly taken care of. So, we hope you learn more about the signs of damaged insulation.

If you have concerns about your insulation, contact us at Energy Plus. We would happy to assist you and answer your questions.