Why Is Insulation Essential for Homes in Chicago?
Insulation is needed to keep homes comfortable and energy-efficient year-round in Chicago’s unpredictable climate. Whether it’s frigid, snowy winters or hot, humid summers, inadequate insulation can lead to higher heating costs in the winter and increased AC usage in the summer.
Without proper insulation, extreme temperature fluctuations can cause drafts, ice dams and energy loss. Below, we discuss seven warning signs to watch out for that may indicate your home needs more insulation and what insulation option is right for your unique home.
7 Warning Signs That Your Chicago Home Needs More Insulation
High Energy Bills During Chicago’s Extreme Seasons
Your home likely lacks proper insulation if heating bills skyrocket in the winter and cooling expenses spike in the summer. Chicago homeowners can save up to 15% in energy costs simply by upgrading their insulation.
Uneven Temperatures in Different Rooms
If you notice one room is freezing while another is hot and stuffy, you may have poor insulation that can’t handle proper temperature control. Adequately insulating your attic and walls will prevent heat loss in the winter and air conditioning in the summer, sealing drafts and acting as a layer of defense against the outside weather.
Cold Drafts Coming From Walls, Windows or Floors
If you notice drafts coming from your walls, windows or floors, your insulation isn’t doing its job. Chicago’s harsh winds and freezing temperatures can easily seep into poorly insulated homes; to combat this, consider spray foam or weatherstripping to seal leaks and improve indoor warmth.
Ice Dams on Your Roof in the Winter
Ice dams are formed when heat escapes through an under-insulated attic, causing snow to melt and refreeze at the eaves. Efficient attic insulation and proper ventilation help to prevent ice dam formation.
Hot Walls, Floors or Ceilings in the Summer
If your walls, floors or ceilings are inadequately insulated, they’ll absorb heat during a hot and humid Chicago summer, making rooms unbearable.
You should have insulation with the correct R-value professionally installed to combat extreme heat.
HVAC System Running Constantly
Your AC may work overtime to produce enough cooling to compensate for heat loss or gain due to poor insulation. Ensure your attics, crawl spaces and walls are properly insulated to reduce HVAC strain and energy costs.
Pest or Moisture Issues in Basements or Attics
Chicago’s fluctuating humidity levels can create the perfect environment for condensation, mold growth or even pest infestations in uninsulated areas.
Closed-cell spray foam is an essential insulation choice for moisture and pest-resistant barriers.
What Are the Best Insulation Options for Chicago Homes?
Leading insulation options for Chicago’s climate include:
- Spray foam insulation: This material is ideal for sealing air leaks and moisture resistance, making it crucial in humid summers.
- Fiberglass insulation: This cost-effective option provides efficiency in attics and walls.
- Blown-in insulation: This material is great for existing homes that need additional insulation without major renovations.
Are you not sure if your Chicago home needs an insulation upgrade? Contact ThermaSeal/Lakeside for a free consultation!
Why Choose ThermaSeal/Lakeside for Home Insulation in Chicago?
When you partner with ThermaSeal/Lakeside for unmatched home insulation services in Chicago, you can expect:
- Local experts: We understand how to address the specific climate challenges in Chicago and the surrounding areas.
- Energy-efficiency focus: We provide insulation solutions to help lower heating and cooling costs for Chicago homeowners.
- Professional installation: Our certified insulation contractors ensure proper R-value for all seasons and deliver year-round efficiency.
Call ThermaSeal/Lakeside today for a free insulation inspection in Chicago!
Insulate Your Chicago Home for Year-Round Comfort & Savings
ThermaSeal/Lakeside knows Chicago’s fluctuating climate and why proper insulation is important for homeowners. Whether you’re dealing with drafts, uneven temperatures, high energy bills, pest or moisture issues, HVAC inefficiency or another concern, our team provides free consultations and expert long-term solutions.
Don’t let Chicago’s winter cold or summer heat drive up your energy bills — contact ThermaSeal/Lakeside today!