The Department of Energy has stated that by properly insulating your attic, you could save between 10 and 50 percent on your energy bills, regardless of whether you have your air conditioner or heating running. These savings are most noticeable during extreme weather conditions and when energy costs are high. If you need to improve the insulation of your attic, it is best to plan to add more insulation soon. As energy savings accumulate, they will eventually pay for themselves. Installing attic insulation this winter is a great long-term investment that will pay off in the form of significantly reduced heating bills.
As an added bonus, when temperatures drop below zero degrees Celsius, attic insulation will also help to minimize your air conditioning bills. If you notice wet or damp insulation or moldy or rotten beams, this could be indicative of moisture problems, which could be due to a roof leak. This must be addressed before adding any new insulation. Whether you hire a professional or take on the project yourself, reinforcing attic insulation can be a great way to improve the comfort of your home and reduce utility bills. If there are any leaks in the roof or signs of mold in the insulation or beams, these must be repaired and the mold completely removed before adding any new insulator.
One of the most important thermal barriers in an average home is the insulation layer on the attic floor. If you can see the floor joists (roughly eight-inch-tall boards that extend a few feet apart along the attic floor), then it is likely that more insulation is needed. According to the Department of Energy, properly insulating the attic can save 10 to 50 percent on a typical heating bill. Beam-shaped ventilation grilles, sometimes referred to as beam-shaped deflectors, help to ensure adequate air flow in the attic and, at the same time, allow for the insulation to be extended to the eaves. During winter months, this insulation prevents warm air from rising up into the top floor and reaching the attic, and during summer months it prevents overheated air from leaking out of the attic into other rooms.
When working with insulation in the attic, it is important to wear protective gear such as a helmet, safety glasses, gloves and long sleeves. In cold temperatures, inadequate attic insulation can contribute greatly to what is known as “the chimney effect” which increases heating bills and makes houses appear drafty. However, with proper insulation in place, this effect can be prevented as it prevents heat from rising up into the roof and melting snow at a much slower rate. Improving attic insulation (and even exterior wall insulation) can be more beneficial than investing in new windows. Consider contacting an architect, structural engineer or builder to assess the condition of your attic and give you recommendations for selecting the right insulation that fits your budget. Upgrading your attic insulation is an excellent way to save money on energy bills while also improving comfort levels in your home.
The Department of Energy estimates that properly insulating your attic can save between 10 and 50 percent on energy bills each year. Additionally, if there are any signs of moisture problems such as wet or damp insulation or moldy or rotten beams, these must be addressed before adding any new insulator. When selecting an insulator for your attic, it is important to consider factors such as cost and R-value (a measure of thermal resistance). It is also important to wear protective gear such as a helmet, safety glasses, gloves and long sleeves when working with insulation in the attic. Finally, consider consulting with an architect, structural engineer or builder who can assess the condition of your attic and provide recommendations for selecting an appropriate insulator.
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