When It Comes To Attic Insulation, It's Good To Be Well Informed

January 12, 2016

With attic insulation, like any other home improvement project, it's good for a homeowner to be well informed. Insulation products and installation methods require some basic knowledge, and will allow for better decision making during the project. And while a DIY approach (do-it-yourself) might be tempting with attic insulation, the uninitiated homeowner may cause more problems than necessary. Professional insulation contractors understand products and installations, and are positioned to deliver the best results. Working closely with a professional contractor will ensure the best long range outcomes, and keeping an eye on the essentials will benefit the homeowner.

Better to avoid the inclination to over-insulate the attic

In the event that there is already insulation in the attic cavity, over-insulating the attic may not necessarily provide you the best return on your investment. Attic insulation is a �system' and must be treated as such with ventilation and R-value considerations (amongst other considerations).

Don't encourage a contractor to over-stuff the insulation

Attic insulation is designed to trap air and constrain air movement. Over-stuffing does not allow the insulation to perform properly. What's more important is to ensure the best possible coverage.

Insect infestations/animal nests must be properly removed

Any evidence of animals or insects in the attic must be properly addressed. Nests and infestations must be removed; damages must be rectified; and the attic space must be sealed completely and effectively.

Any sign of moisture, mold or mildew should be addressed.

Pockets of moisture usually indicate an attic space that is not adequately ventilated. If insulation gets wet, its useless. Wet, rotting wood is even worse. After the necessary repairs, proper ventilation is a must.

When insulating the attic, ventilation is part of the project.

The experts will insist on proper attic ventilation as part of an insulation project. Professional contractors understand the dynamics of ventilation and know how to install for the best possible balance. In the majority of cases, attic insulation is much more than just adding extra insulation. It's important to do the job right, and to use the right product and the appropriate installation. But whatever the approach, a professional touch is always recommended - no insulation product will deliver optimum performance if not properly installed. And by any measure, it's critical to follow product specifications and to install everything based on the prevailing building code. Most importantly, shorts cuts don't deliver results. The fact is, professional insulation contractors create a complete "system" when installing attic insulation. It means that the attic space is effectively sealed, properly ventilated, and optimally insulated. Everything works in tandem to provide energy efficiency throughout the home, along with cost savings on heating and cooling from one season to the next. The so-called DIY approach might be money-saving in the short-term, but not in the long run. Its the professional approach that can ensure long term performance. For the homeowner, it's simply a good idea to be well informed. It will make for a better working relationship with the contractor and will most certainly assure better outcomes.