You know your attic needs insulation. But for many homeowners, it stops there. Maybe you have a vague memory of there being some fluffy pink stuff in the attic floor. But other than that, it’s out of sight, out of mind, right? Never fear — the pros at ThermaSeal/Lakeside Insulation have put together this guide to help you assess your attic’s insulation and decide if you need more.
What signs indicate the need for more attic insulation?
Common signs that more insulation is needed include drafts, hot or cold spots within the home and increased utility bills. You may also notice increased operation and excessive wear and tear on HVAC systems.
How do I evaluate the status of my existing insulation?
The first thing to evaluate is depth. If you only have an inch or two of insulation, there are two possible scenarios: Your insulation is in good shape, but you don’t have enough of it or your insulation has been compacted and is less effective than when it was first installed. Either way, you’ll need to address the situation. Also, look closely for mold, mildew, signs of rodent infestation or any other damage. You will also want to note any gaps within your insulation, as these can significantly reduce the insulation’s effectiveness. And trust your nose because if you smell mold and mildew, it’s probably hidden beneath layers of insulation.
Is it possible to add new insulation over existing insulation?
If the insulation is in good condition, there is usually no problem adding new insulation over the old. However, if the insulation is wet or permeated with mold and mildew, these problems require removal and reinsulation of the attic space. Because of advances in insulating technology, it’s often advantageous to remove all existing insulation and apply newer, more modern options to the attic.
How is insulation added?
It depends on the insulation you choose. If you choose fiberglass batt insulation, it will be inserted and cut to fit within your attic rafters. If you opt for blown-in or spray insulation, the attic will be thoroughly cleaned, and the material will be applied via specialized equipment.
What materials are used to ensure proper insulation of the attic space?
Our insulation technicians follow rigid protocols and procedures when installing insulation within every property we work on. Properly insulating an attic requires the use of the right insulation, caulking, sealants, polyethylene vapor retarders, retardent paint, sheathing tape, fasteners, staples, nails and backing rods.
Do you have more questions about the best ways to insulate your attic? Contact the insulation professionals at ThermaSeal/Lakeside at (847) 566-7051. It’s our pleasure to give you the answers you need to make the best decision for your comfort.
The Insulation Process
1. The first step involves inspecting the insulation. When we determined that new insulation is required, we will help you identify the best option for your desired comfort.
2. We will schedule a time to start work on your Chicago-area home. In most cases, our team can complete the work in a single day, and we will work with you to identify the best time and date to perform the task.
3. Our team will remove the old insulation and prepare the attic space to receive the new insulation. Our teams will thoroughly inspect the attic and seal any leaks we discover during the preparation process.
4. Installation can begin. Our team can complete a typical 1,000-square-foot area in less than a few hours. Before laying fiberglass batts or applying blown-in or spray foam insulation, we’ll notify you if there are any additional steps we need to complete.
5. Inspection is the final step. We will inspect the insulation to confirm the proper depth and air seal.
It is our pleasure to tell you more about the steps we take to complete your attic insulation. Contact the insulation professionals at ThermaSeal/Lakeside Insulation at (847) 566-7051 to learn more about the procedures we follow to ensure an effective installation that protects your home against the coldest winter chill and hottest summer days.
