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An attic insulation upgrade may be in order if your energy bills are out of control and your home has wildly inconsistent temperatures. The comfort and energy efficiency of your home can often be enhanced by retrofitting rather than removing the current insulation.
Does your attic insulation need an upgrade? REenergizeCO serves homeowners in Denver, Fort Collins, and throughout the Colorado Front Range. We offer multiple types of insulation for attics, and our team can help you determine if retrofitting or removal and replacement is necessary. Often, we are able to install additional insulation over existing rather than replacing it.
Is Upgrading Attic Insulation Worth It?
You might need to upgrade your attic insulation if you notice any of these signs:
1. Your HVAC Runs Constantly
If your attic has poor insulation, your air conditioner will work harder in the summer to keep the house cool. In the winter, your furnace will run more to replace the warm air escaping through the attic.
2. High Energy Bills
The more your HVAC runs, the higher your energy bills. Nearly 50% of conditioned air is lost through attic leaks, costing you more each month.
3. Uneven Temperatures
Air leaks in the attic can cause hot and cold spots throughout your home, especially on upper floors. Drafty rooms or fluctuating temperatures may indicate inadequate attic insulation.
4. Ice Dams
Poor or insufficient attic insulation can cause ice to form along the roof edges, known as ice dams. These can prevent water from draining off the roof, leading to leaks and water damage.
5. Wind Damage
High winds can penetrate your home’s outer shell, especially in the attic, displacing insulation. If your home faces strong winds regularly, it might be worth inspecting your attic insulation.
Can You Add Insulation Over Existing Attic Insulation?
Yes, you can usually add new insulation over existing attic insulation. First, make sure the current insulation is not wet, moldy, or damaged. If it is, it will need to be removed and replaced.
Usually, insulation removal is not necessary. Your existing insulation can often be upgraded with blown-in insulation or batts and rolls. Here are some options for upgrading attic insulation:
– Fiberglass Insulation
– Cellulose Insulation
– Mineral Wool Insulation
Spray foam insulation is another option, but it doesn’t stick well to other materials. If you choose spray foam, the existing insulation will need to be removed first.
How Much More Attic Insulation Do You Need?
A professional contractor will measure the current insulation in your attic and determine how much more is needed. The goal is not just to increase the thickness but to improve the R-value, which measures heat resistance.
In Colorado, the recommended R-value for attic insulation is R-49. Achieving this involves finding the right insulation material and adding enough to meet this standard.
Can I Upgrade the Attic Insulation Myself?
You can try sealing attic air leaks yourself, which might seem cost-effective, but there are several downsides:
– Missing Potential Problems: Professionals can detect issues that may affect the attic’s suitability for upgrades. Overlooking these can lead to ongoing inefficiency.
– Proper Measurement: Insulation needs to be “just right” to be effective. Incorrect measurements can result in too much or too little insulation.
– Health Risks: Fiberglass insulation can irritate the skin and is hazardous to breathe in. Without proper protective gear, you risk irritation of the eyes, airways, and skin.
– Mess and Clean-Up: Major upgrades might involve opening up walls, creating dust and debris that are hard to clean and bad for your health.
– Home Damage: Improperly accessing the attic’s structure can damage joists, rafters, and other parts of your home.
Professional insulation contractors have the skills, training, and experience to avoid these issues. An installer can often complete the upgrade in just one day, customizing the install to your needs and treating your home with care.
Start Your Attic Insulation Upgrade Today
Do you want lower energy bills and a more comfortable home? Upgrading your attic insulation might be the solution!
A comprehensive energy audit includes inspecting your home’s insulation. Our certified energy auditors will assess the insulation in your attic and other areas, then recommend upgrades.
REenergizeCO is a top insulation company in Denver, Fort Collins, and the Front Range. We focus on improving energy efficiency in Colorado’s existing homes with targeted, affordable, and effective upgrades.
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