Top FAQs About Attic Insulation

 

Attic insulation is an important component of a well-functioning home, contributing to indoor comfort, energy efficiency, and overall home health. Despite its importance, many homeowners are still skeptical, and have questions and misconceptions. Throughout this blog, we’ll address some of the most common questions we got in our years of experience as attic professionals, to provide clarity and help make decisions about attic insulation needs. 

Why is attic insulation important? Is it worth it? 

Attic insulation plays a vital role in maintaining a comfortable temperature inside the house year-round. It helps keep the heat out in the summer and retains warmth in the winter. Thus, attic insulation not only enhances a comfortable ambiance, but also reduces the need for excessive heating and cooling. This will be reflected in lower Hydro bills.   

How to know if the attic is not well insulated? 

Several signs will insinuate that you might have a problem with attic insulation: 

High energy bills despite moderate weather 

- Uneven temperatures between rooms 

- Drafts or cold spots in the house 

- Ice dams on the roof during winter 

- Excess Humidity within the attic.  

- Mold Formation within the attic.  

If you notice any of these signs, you should have a professional inspect your attic. 

What types of insulation are available for attics? 

The most common types of attic insulation are: 

- Fiberglass rolls: Made from fine glass fibers, they are widely available and used. Their installation is simple. However, they might miss some problematic or hard-to-reach spaces within the attic. 

- Blown-in cellulose: Made from recycled paper products, it’s ideal for filling gaps and hard-to-reach areas. Cellulose is also known for being fireproof and mold resistant.  

- Spray foam: Provides efficient air sealing and insulation but is more expensive than the other types of insulation. 

- Reflective or radiant barriers: Used mainly in hot climates to reflect heat away from the attic. 

How much insulation do I need? 

The amount of insulation needed depends on the region’s climate and the type of insulation you choose. Insulation levels are measured by R-value, which indicates the insulation’s resistance to heat flow. Higher R-values mean better insulating effectiveness. The recommended R-value varies by region, check out our blog that explains the same.  

Can I install attic insulation myself? 

While some types of insulation, like fiberglass, can be easily installed by handy homeowners, others, such as cellulose or spray foam, require professional installation. In fact, attic insulation is not simply putting the insulation inside the attic. It involves proper air sealing to prevent drafts and moisture issues, mold removal and installing the adequate amount of insulation to ensure the right R-value. That said, hiring a professional ensures proper attic installation. 

How long does attic insulation last? 

The lifespan of an attic varies by type. However, we can say that on average, attic insulation can last 20 to 30 years if not exposed to bad conditions such as excess humidity, mold, presence of small insects and parasites. 

Regular inspections can help ensure your insulation remains effective.  

What is the cost of insulating an attic? 

The cost of insulating an attic depends on several factors, including the type of insulation, the size of your attic, and whether you choose professional installation. In addition, attic insulation might include several activities other than installing the insulation, such as air sealing leaks, sealing the attic hatch, mold decontamination. While the upfront cost can be significant, the energy savings and increased comfort can make it a worthwhile investment. 

Proper attic insulation is essential for a comfortable, energy-efficient home. Even if it looks like an easy DIY task, hiring a professional will always be recommended to ensure proper and quality insulation.  

If you have more questions or need expert advice on attic insulation, feel free to contact Système Éconergie at 1-514-409-2224. Our team of professionals is here to help you achieve the best results.