Heating and cooling accounts for about half of the energy used in the average home.
If the home isn’t properly insulated, it costs more to maintain a comfortable temperature.
According to the US Environmental Protection Agency, homeowners can save an average of 15% on their energy bills simply by insulating attics, floors and crawl spaces. Insulating the attic is a fairly quick and simple project that delivers a significant return. It can prevent gradual damage to the home’s structure that is caused by heat and moisture. Upgrading insulation stops water vapor from seeping in and eroding walls. It lessens heat buildup in the attic which can result in the shingles on the roof swelling and cracking. In cold weather areas, attic insulation avoids ice dams from forming when snow melts and refreezes on the roof’s edge. This home improvement prevents mold from growing and mitigates the effects of condensation. Outdoor contaminants such as mildew, dust, exhaust fumes and pollen can penetrate the home through air leaks caused by insufficient insulation. These airborne toxins gradually build up and can create a threat to indoor air quality. Insulation provides a barrier against air pollutants and stops them from spreading throughout the home. A cleaner environment is not only more enjoyable and comfortable, but lessens health risks. Considering that heat naturally moves from warmer to cooler spaces, it’s good for the HVAC system to seal up the home. A temperature fluctuations of ten to fifteen degrees between the first and second floor is a clear sign of too little insulation. When upstairs bedrooms are overheated or certain rooms are difficult to maintain comfort, there’s most likely leaks to the outside.