Improving Energy Efficiency With Attic Insulation?

Answer 1

Installing insulation in an attic will save between 10% and 50% on average for a household energy bill. With the recent encouragement to save energy, attic insulation has become affordable for everyone, making it a necessity for anyone who lives in a climate where extreme heat or cold is experienced. Hot and cold air often enters a house through the attic, then affects the rest of the house. The problem is more predominant in the winter seasons, as heat has a tendency to rise. When the heat rises to the attic from the lower levels, the energy is quickly lost instead of being conserved, if there is no insulation present. Consider insulation to be similar to covering a hole in a cup full of water.

Insulation is fairly easy to install and may be done as a do-it-yourself project. Types of insulation are determined byway of an R value. This value determines what type of insulation is needed for each climate, depending on the normal weather patterns in that area. To determine the R value needed, consumers may consult the Department of Energy’s website for resources.

Most home improvement stores or supply stores sell insulation and the supplies necessary to install it. Some stores may also have guides for consumers to purchase, offering complete instructions. Many people prefer blown-in attic insulation instead of batted, simply because it is much more quick and painless to install. Batted insulation may be more time-consuming and involve being in an uncomfortable posture longer, but it does produce a more uniform R value. Consistency is important with insulation, especially the more extreme a climate is.

When preparing to install attic insulation, an entire day should be reserved to complete the project. Attics that are unfinished and have unreliable floor boards should have extra thick boards laid across in common walking areas. This will ensure safety during the installation process. Before purchasing insulation, it is best to see how much insulation is already in the attic’s spaces. Usually attics will have very little insulation or none; sometimes removal may be desired for a uniform result. Removing insulation is not recommended without the help of a professional.