Some Signs That It's Time to Upgrade Insulation

April 20, 2016

Upgrading insulation is one of the better home improvement projects that can be expedited. And while there's nothing to really see in terms of aesthetic improvement, the outcomes will make the project worthwhile. Insulation upgrades will never be impressive like kitchen or bathroom renos, but the dollar savings on utilities will definitely be impressive. For some homeowners, annual home improvements have become routine - one year it's roofing, another year it's attic insulation, another year it's the windows. But with insulation upgrading, things are somewhat different - there are specific warning signs to suggest that it's time for some work. Some signs are obvious - others more of a forewarning. For homeowners who want to be sure about upgrading insulation, a professional home energy audit will clearly identify areas that need attention, and potential areas that need upgrading. And after such an audit, insulation experts like Great Northern Insulation can suggest the appropriate product and installation that will work best in the situation.

Higher-than-usual heating and cooling bills

Although home energy costs are always on the increase, higher-than-usual costs for heating and cooling are a sure sign that a home is not energy efficient. It could be a direct result of air leakage, deteriorating insulation, even a poor installation job.

Uneven temperature swings around the home

Where a particular room in the house is overly cold or overly hot, somewhere the insulation isn't performing. For one reason or another, the insulation has been compromised, and here an energy audit is ideal for isolating specific areas of heat loss.

Age and condition of existing home insulation

Many insulation products (especially lower quality materials) will eventually lose their insulation properties (R-Value). A professional contractor can identify the condition of existing insulation and recommend whether replacement is required.

Wetness or accumulated moisture in a space

Where a space has become wet or has excessive moisture, insulation can quickly lose its capacity to perform. And with a roof leak or basement flood, replacement and restoration will absolutely be needed - particularly to avoid mold developing.

Attic infiltration of animals, insects, or pests

Found mostly in attics, some insulation products provide a cozy environment for squirrels, mice, insects and other pests. Here again, an expert visual inspection will determine the status. This is more than just insulation, it's also about hygiene.

Upstairs - cold rooms, cold closets, chilly floors

Poorly performing insulation makes for cold rooms, cold closets, and often, chilly floors. It could be a result of air leakage in the attic, poorly installed insulation throughout, or even insulation that has deteriorated over the past few years.

Unbalanced operation of the HVAC equipment

When the furnace and/or air conditioner are working harder than need be to maintain seasonal indoor comfort, the home is not properly insulated, and is not energy efficient. Sealing air leaks and enhancing R-Values will make a difference. For the experts at Great Northern Insulation, these are all telltale signs that the home's insulation just isn't performing. It's also the right time to evaluate the options for upgrading, and ensure an installation that will deliver high performance (and reduced energy bills) for years to come.