Upgrading Your Insulation - When Is The Right Time?

April 07, 2017

At Great Northern Insulation, homeowners often ask about the right time to upgrade insulation. Clearly, there are different answers for different circumstances, but in every case, it all starts with a comprehensive assessment of the space. For the experts at GNI, its important to advise every customer on the best approach to upgrading insulation, while recommending products that best suit the circumstances. And this is exactly where an accurate assessment can be most valuable. New homes or old, there are various reasons for upgrading insulation, or for that matter, entirely replacing insulation. In some homes, existing insulation may be lacking in certain areas. In some situations, the original installation may have been inadequate or improper. And finally, there are homes where insulation is deteriorating for one reason or another. Here, GNI can assess and evaluate the current condition, while making viable recommendations for repairs or retrofits.

Determining where there is need to add or replace insulation

A proper assessment determines the condition of existing insulation, and overall performance. This is where an Energy Auditor can be valuable, assessing a home's insulation with respect to the home's overall energy efficiency. This type of Home Energy Audit will pinpoint areas where insulation requires upgrading or replacement, and where air sealing would be necessary.

Using a do-it-yourself approach to inspection & assessment

Much like other home improvements, a DIY approach to insulation might seem like a good option for some homeowners. However, it's the experts who understand the nuances of insulation, and who have the inspection tools to accurately gauge energy efficiency and performance. A thorough assessment will set the stage for identifying vulnerable areas that require upgrading.

Understanding R-Values and where upgrading can be helpful

Using industry guidelines, an Energy Audit can gauge existing R-Values, and establish how best to achieve optimum insulation performance. At Great Northern Insulation, trained installers decide which insulation product would be best in a given space, and how to achieve maximum efficiency for the homeowner. The bottom line, of course, is to reduce energy use and utility costs.

A comprehensive approach to upgrading home insulation

With a reliable Home Energy Audit, vulnerable insulation points are identified, whether located in the attic, the basement, or in the exterior walls. More than just insulation, it's also important to isolate areas of the home that require better air sealing, as well as enhanced ventilation. Proper sealing and ventilation are integral for new insulation to deliver peak performance.

Determining the right insulation for upgrading/renewing

The professionals at GNI are trained and qualified to recommend the product/installation to best suit the job. GNI installers understand which insulation product will work best in a given space. They appreciate the importance of air sealing, and understand how to guarantee optimum energy efficiency for the building envelope. This is where expertise delivers the best results. For products and installations that deliver long-term results, Great Northern Insulation can recommend an approach with the best return-on-investment. More information is available at www.gni.ca or by calling toll-free 1-800-265-1914.