All structures need proper insulation to prevent outside air from penetrating within, and inside air from escaping. This is necessary for both cold and warm seasons. One of the first questions to ask yourself as a homeowner is whether or not your property has enough insulation. Continue reading to learn how insulation is used, the different types available, and who to call for help with improving yours.
Benefiting From Good Home Insulation
As far as checking to see if you have enough insulation, simply look across your attic and check if you can see the floor beams. If you can, then your home could probably use a little more insulation. There are several benefits for having a properly insulated home; like reduced energy costs and consumption, lower monthly utility bills, enhanced moisture control, even temperature distribution, and more. Insulation is like protective lining for a home. It blocks cold air or heat from entering the home, and prevents temperature-controlled air from escaping.
Attics can reach extremely high temperatures in the warmer seasons, up to 150 degrees or more! Without sufficient insulation, that heat will leave the attic area and seep into the living quarters of a home. And the opposite situation applies in winter months as well. Insulation will keep frigid air or hot air from leaving the top of the home. Keep in mind that a home’s insulation does more than just offer indoor air comfort; it also provides a sound barrier from outdoor noises and allows for the perfect moisture-level in the air so that it does not feel so dried out.
Inspecting Your Home’s Insulation
Many homeowners have mistaken the results of poor attic insulation for a broken HVAC system. The home doesn’t cool or warm properly, so they assume it’s the heating and cooling unit, when in fact, it’s the lack of insulation in their home. This is why it is imperative to have your home’s insulation inspected annually by a licensed general contractor. They retain the proper training, certifications, and knowledge to accurately diagnose your insulation problems. A trusted general contractor can save you time and money with a proper analysis. They will check the insulation as part of their inspection, and then make professional recommendations for necessary attic and wall renovations. Types of Insulation
Choosing a Type of Insulation
There are many types of insulation for a home. They are mostly made from flexible mineral fibers like fiberglass or rock wool, and come in rolls and batts, or blankets. One popular choice is cellulose insulation. It’s non-flammable so it can contribute to fire-prevention in a home. It is also resistant to mold, mildew, insects, termites, and reduces condensation. Insulation is mostly made from mineral fibers like fiberglass or rock wool.
There is also rigid-foam insulation, perfect for exterior wall sheathing, as well as, foam-in-place insulation made from polyurethane. Another form of insulation is a loose-fit version, such as the cellulose insulation, that fits well in awkward places like duct work, pipes, or attics with lots of wires. Consult your Indianapolis home renovation contractor for information and advice on which materials you should choose.
Indianapolis Residential General Contractors You Can Trust
Call Restoration By L&B LLC at 317-454-3612 when you are looking for qualified general contracting services for residential properties in Indianapolis, Indiana. Owner and general contractor, Lee Elliot, is happy to answer all your questions about home remodel planning, prices, and process. And don’t forget; we guarantee to BEAT any prices quoted by our competition!
