When it comes to home insulation, the first area that comes to mind is the attic. Building airflow moves from ground to sky, naturally pulling conditioned indoor air up and out of a structure. Proper attic insulation helps keep conditioned air inside your home and helps keep your home more comfortable. When conditioned air remains inside your home it helps reduce wear and tear on your heating system and keeps energy bills in line. How to install insulation in an attic depends upon many factors. With different insulating options, it’s important to hire an experienced insulation contractor so you are sure they know how to install insulation to gain maximum insulating benefit.
There are three common methods used to insulate attics — blown-in fiberglass, blown-in fiberglass with air sealing and spray foam insulation. Here’s what you need to know about each:
Blown-In Fiberglass
Insulating attics with blown-in fiberglass insulation is a quick and easy way to add R-value. This is a basic method of attic insulation and a cost-effective option to upgrade attics of existing homes or insulate attics in new homes. Properly knowing how to blow in insulation can make a difference in how the insulation performs. The product must be evenly installed across the attic space to ensure even and proper insulating of the home.
Blown-In Fiberglass With Air Sealing
Combining blown-in fiberglass insulation with air sealing dramatically increases a home’s energy efficiency. This method helps keep conditioned air inside the home and adds R-value. In an existing home, attic insulation is removed and penetration points around the attic floor are sealed. After air sealing is complete, a fresh blanket of blown-in fiberglass insulation is installed. In a new home, penetration points around the attic floor are sealed before blown-in insulation is installed.
Spray Foam Insulation
Installing spray foam insulation in the attic of a new or existing home provides optimal energy protection. In an existing home, insulation is removed from the attic and spray foam is installed along the roofline. In a new home, spray foam insulation is installed along the roofline as part of the construction process.
Proper attic insulation combined with air sealing is one of the most cost-effective ways to save money on monthly energy bills. Wondering if your home could benefit from additional attic insulation? Ready to discuss insulation for your new home project? Contact our office today!