A well-insulated house and attic are essential for reducing energy costs in the long run. According to the 26th US News World Report, sealing air leaks, heating ducts, and insulating the attic are three of the top five improvements that will save you money. If you need to improve your attic's insulation, plan to add more soon. The manufacturer usually recommends that it lasts at least 80 years, but its effectiveness decreases over time, so it is recommended to replace it every 15 years.
Insulating your attic has many advantages, regardless of where you live or what time of year it is. The primary benefit is that you save money by lowering your energy bills, giving you a greater return on investment. It's also more eco-friendly since it requires you to use less energy to heat or cool your home. When it comes to home improvement, insulating the attic is one of the most cost-effective and simplest ways to live comfortably without having to spend a lot of money.
If you decide to use spray foam to improve the insulation of the attic, you will first need to remove the fiberglass or other type of existing insulation. In cold temperatures, inadequate attic insulation contributes significantly to the “chimney effect”, which increases heating bills and makes houses appear to have drafts. If family members have allergy problems, the concern about how the insulation of the attic will affect them is valid. Things like dust mites, fungi, mold, and pet dander can be triggered when there is little or no insulation in the attic. The goal of an upgrade is to increase the R value so that the space is properly insulated. The attic is particularly vulnerable to wind, and one of the most common issues is the displacement of housing insulation.
The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) estimates that homeowners can save an average of 15% on heating and cooling costs by sealing air leaks and adding insulation to the attic. During wintertime, this insulation prevents warm air from rising up the top floor and reaching the attic, and during summertime, it prevents overheated air from the attic from leaking into the rooms. Improving attic insulation isn't about increasing the thickness of the insulation itself, but about increasing the R value. You may need to improve attic insulation if your energy bills are out of control and your home has very inconsistent temperatures. To obtain an R-49 for the attic, it is necessary to find the right insulation material and calculate how much will have to be added to the walls and ceiling. Upgrading your attic insulation can be a great way to save money on energy bills while also improving your home's comfort level.
It's important to understand how much insulation you need and what type of material works best for your home before making any decisions. With proper installation and maintenance, you can enjoy a well-insulated home for many years.
