There are many benefits to installing Houston attic insulation. It will save you money in the long run. This type of insulation includes reducing the amount of heat that escapes your home and keeping it more comfortable. There are many types of attic insulation, and choosing the right one for your home can be a challenge. You can add it yourself or hire a professional. Listed below are some of the benefits of installing attic insulation.
A well-insulated attic keeps a home warmer during the winter and helps prevent frozen pipes, which can lead to costly water damage. During storms, attic insulation can also cut down on noise. Depending on the type of insulation, it can reduce outside noise. The open cell spray foam has the highest sound transmission factor. Make sure your attic has adequate ventilation during the winter and summer months. Moisture on cold surfaces can damage the insulation in the long run.
Cellulose is another popular option. It’s made from recycled paper and is usually treated with boric acid to resist insects and fires. You can buy this in bags from home improvement stores. Sometimes, you can even get a free blower to do the job for you. But keep in mind that cellulose doesn’t have a high R-value and can’t be used for spot-insulation. However, it’s an effective material for attic insulation.
Before installing new attic insulation, you should fix any air leaks. Caulk around pipe and ventilation ducts is a good idea. Make sure that the lights in the attic are “IC” rated. This way, you can install attic insulation without worry about the light being damaged. Also, inspect the weatherstripping around pull-stairs and attic access hatches. If there’s no weatherstripping around these areas, you can’t use attic insulation in that area.
There are several types of attic insulation. Fiberglass batts are the most common, but you can also get loose-fill fiberglass or spray foam. Choose the type based on your climate, as different climates have different requirements for insulation R-value. If your house is older than 10 years, you probably need more insulation. If it is made of mineral wool or fiberglass, you’ll likely have lower energy bills. If you’re not sure, call a contractor for help.
Before installing attic insulation, you should carefully measure the space in your attic. Make sure you have enough space in each joist space. Install attic insulation from the perimeter toward the attic hatch, leaving enough room between the walls and joists for air to flow. You should overlap the insulation around the top plate of the exterior wall and the joists. You can use a rake to level any uneven spots.
Another important tip for installing attic insulation is to check the R-value of the existing insulation. Be aware that there are many different types of insulation, and a poor one may make the air in your home less healthy. For the best results, choose a high-quality insulation. You should also wear protective clothing when installing insulation. And remember, never vent exhaust into your attic – it’s against the building code! In addition, humidity can destroy the insulation.
Attic insulation also contributes to better indoor air quality. Without proper insulation, outdoor pollutants can penetrate the home and affect the air quality over time. Attic insulation keeps these contaminants from spreading throughout your home. It also prevents moisture buildup. Mold thrives in damp environments, and water vapor can seep into walls during high summer humidity. And the lack of proper attic insulation can also cause discomforting temperature fluctuations. When you have a leaky roof, airborne toxins can make it difficult to breathe.
There are many different types of attic insulation available, and each one has a different cost. Before deciding on which type is best for your home, contact a professional insulation company for a free consultation. A professional insulation company will be happy to give you an estimate, and will provide a written quote. If you are unsure, the best way to determine what type of insulation you will need is to compare the price quotes from different companies.
