Is It Time To Replace Your Attic Insulation?

The insulation of your attic is crucial for managing the temperature and humidity of your house. If neglected, it can impact your home’s energy bill, pest control, temperature, and air quality.

Here are a few of the signs and tests that can help you determine if it’s time to replace or repair the insulation in your attic.

House Is Cold

If your home feels drafty or you find that you have inadequate temperature control, your attic might be the culprit. The warm air of your home naturally rises, and an under-insulated attic will allow heat to escape from your home at a higher rate, making for an exceptionally cold winter. If you find that turning the thermostat has little impact, the attic should be the first place to check.

Another sign is if your energy bill has gone up; insulation can have as much as a 35% impact on the bottom-line energy bill for your home.

Pests

Are you hearing scratching at night, or noticing an increase in mice, rats, or other pests? Old insulation makes for an ideal nest for most vermin, providing them with a comfortable home within your house. Listen for late-night noises close to your attic or have a professional conduct an inspection.

Air Quality

Your attic accumulates a great deal of moisture, and over time that can lead to mildew or mold. Especially in an older home, cracks and weakened materials will provide an ample breeding ground for the growth of hazardous materials. A large portion of the breathable air in the home passes through your attic, so mold and mildew will immediately impact air quality. If this is the case, you’ll notice odd smells, general discomfort, or an uptick in allergies.

These issues could pose an immediate and severe health risk to the residents of your house, so if you notice any of these issues you should schedule an immediate inspection.

Leaks and Water Damage

Excessive moisture can also cause leaks and water damage. If you’re noticing dripping, stains, or pooling water, this is a sign that your insulation has been severely compromised. You can also check the wood around your attic for issues like warping and cracks. This is an urgent issue and can cause cascading damage throughout your home. It also means that you’re at an increased risk of termites and carpenter ants.

How Old Is Your Insulation?

Insulation is built to last a long time, but eventually, it will start to wear down. The best way to check that your attic needs a replacement is to check the insulation for discoloration and holes. Look for places where your insulation has turned black or spots where it’s falling off the walls.

Low Insulation Levels

Not every insulation issue means that you need to replace it. In many cases, it can just mean that you need more of it. If you notice any of the above issues, you can check the depth of your insulation; it should be anywhere from 10 to 16 inches. If it’s below that, you should contact a professional to add more insulation to your attic.

If you’re concerned about the insulation of your attic, we can assess and implement the maintenance or repairs necessary to protect your home. Contact us to begin discussing your options today.