Are you struggling to keep your home warm as the temperatures drop? If your furnace is running nonstop and your heating bills are rising, the problem might be inadequate insulation in your attic.
Without proper insulation, your home loses valuable heat, forcing your system to work harder while still leaving you cold. By evaluating and improving your attic insulation, you can keep the warmth in and your energy costs down. Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to keep your cozy through fall and winter.
Step 1: Evaluate Your Existing Insulation
Before adding more insulation, it’s important to inspect your existing insulation to determine if an upgrade is needed. Here’s what to look for when checking your attic with insulation:
- Check if you can see the floor joists, as this may indicate insufficient insulation.
- Inspect the insulation for signs of compression or thinning, which reduces effectiveness.
- Ensure the insulation is evenly distributed without any bare spots.
- Look for signs of old, damaged, or moisture-affected insulation, which may need replacing.
Step 2: Choose the Right Insulation
When adding insulation, fiberglass batts are the most common because they are affordable and easy to install. Blown-in cellulose is ideal for attics with irregular spaces because it offers better coverage. For maximum efficiency, spray foam insulation expands to fill gaps and cracks, providing superior insulation and air sealing, though it comes at a higher cost.
If your attic already has insulation but just needs more, consider using the same material to make things easier. For optimal efficiency in cold climates, aim for an R-value between R-49 and R-60.
Step 3: Add More Insulation
Before you start, seal any air leaks around pipes, chimneys, or vents. Then, roll out or blow in your new insulation over the old one, ensuring there are no gaps. Avoid blocking ventilation points to prevent moisture buildup, which can lead to mould.
By upgrading your attic with insulation, you can drastically reduce heat loss and cut down on energy costs this winter. Not only will your home feel warmer, but you’ll notice a significant difference in your heating bills. Ready to get started? Contact our team at George Kent Home Improvements for a no-obligation quote for a professional attic insulation inspection or installation.
