The challenges of a poorly insulated home can manifest in many different ways. High energy bills, drafty rooms, uneven heating and cooling, and icicles on your roof are just a few. It is important that you know the cause of these issues, and the first step is to meet with a professional.
The benefit of having one of our insulation professionals assess your home, diagnose any insulation issues, and provide you with clear recommendations is one way to find out what's going on in your home. Another option is to request one of our more in depth home performance assessments. This report entails a comprehensive, whole-house inspection. We check your home for health and safety issues, energy efficiency, and discuss any comfort challenges you have. Our report will help you stay informed about your home, with a clear understanding of how to improve.
Whether you get a free estimate or an assessment, the knowledge you gain is free and will help you improve your home when you are ready.
What About the Insulation?
Older homes might have had sufficient insulation when built, but no one has replaced or augmented it since. Others have gradually had the original insulation removed but never had it thoroughly replaced. If either is true of your house, you may be wondering why your energy bills seem so high.
Adding or replacing insulation can have a dramatic impact on your energy costs. This includes:
- Attic ceilings, walls, and sometimes floors
- Closed-off spaces directly under the roof
- Basement or crawlspace, around the foundation
- Door frames and thresholds
- Windows and window frames
- Chimneys
- Walls
- Pipes
Depending on the configuration of your house, there might be other areas that need insulation. Following our inspection visit, we'll provide recommendations.
Today's Insulation Choices
While insulation isn't the most obvious part of home improvement; it's an essential one. You'll feel better when you're not bundled in multiple layers, trying to stay warm -- even with the heat turned way up.
Insulation's R-value
You should know that insulation's R-value refers to its thermal resistance. The greater the insulating effectiveness at maintaining a desirable indoor temperature, the higher the R-value.
With some insulation types, R-value is affected by temperature, age, and moisture. Keep this in mind if you have older insulation in your home or live in a warm, moist climate.
Popular Types of Insulation
What We Offer:
- Fiberglass (R-value: 3.0-4.0 per inch (R-13 for a 2-by-4-framed wall)
Most popular form of home insulation is fiberglass, which is available in batts, blankets, and loose (for blowing into places that are hard to access).
- Cellulose (R-value: 3.2--3.8 per inch sq.)
Cellulose is safe and works in all temperatures, even extreme cold.
- Spray Foam (R-value: 3.5-6.5 per inch sq.)
Spray foam has a high R-value and is very adaptable to different spaces, including tight ones. You should hire professionals to install spray-foam insulation since it requires special equipment and protective gear.
Other Insulation Types:
- Mineral Wool (R-value: 4-5 per inch (R-15 for a 2-by-4-framed wall)
Also available in batts and blankets, this insulation is fire-resistant and often used to insulate chimneys. It is susceptible to mold, though.
- Structural Insulated Panels (SIPs) (R-value: 3.8-7.7 per inch sq.)
This form of insulation has the highest R-values. SIPs are most commonly used in new construction and new roofs or siding.
Insulation Makes Your Home More Comfortable!
By insulating your home, it will create a safer, more comfortable living environment, keeping your house warmer in the winter and cooler in the summer. Plus, you'll enjoy the peace of mind that comes from knowing that older, worn-out, and possibly decaying materials are gone.
If this thought appeals to you, reach out to Graves Brothers Home Improvement soon. We'll be waiting to hear from you!