In any home, the attic is the one area that without question MUST be properly insulated. Good insulation in the attic not only results in substantial savings on your energy bill, it also keeps your cooled or warmed air where it belongs – inside your home! Without adequate insulation, you can almost see those dollar signs floating right through the roof. Here’s more about how attic insulation works and why it matters so much.
The attic is an area in most homes that for the most part goes unnoticed. You might use it for storage, but other than that it’s out of mind. The fact is, good insulation and ventilation in the attic is critical for regulating the temperature and comfort level in your home throughout every season of the year. During the summer months attic insulation keeps your air conditioned air inside; during winter months, it keeps the heated air indoors.
The right amount of insulation can result in savings of as much as 20% on energy costs. Think about that: If your energy bill averages $200 during the summer months, you could potentially slash $40 off with the right insulation. That is HUGE in our book! How much you save may vary depending on factors such as whether you have a smart thermostat, type of HVAC or other heating/cooling equipment you have, and the habits of those who reside in your home.
Good attic insulation also extends the live of your HVAC system. How, you’re wondering? Because the cooled or heated air stays inside your home, your system won’t run as often. This means less wear and tear, and a system that lasts longer.
There are various types of attic insulation with different R-Values. What is an R-Value? Basically, the higher the number, the better the product will insulate your home. In the south it is recommended home owners choose insulation with a rating of R-38. Batted and rolled is usually the cheapest and while it works well with a tight fit between studs, rafters, etc., it doesn’t work as well as blown-in or spray foam insulation. These types of attic insulation are more efficient as they can fill smaller gaps, holes, or crevices to create an air-tight seal, particularly spray foam. Depending on the type of insulation you choose for the attic, approximately 10″ to 14″ will reach an R-Value of R-38.
Only one out of 10 homes in the U.S. is properly insulated. Unfortunately, this means the majority of homes are not well insulated, and homeowners are spending way too much on energy costs. Is your attic properly insulated? The U.S. Department of Energy suggests that homeowners should have their insulation inspected every year. If you have questions or concerns, give the Austin insulation experts at HabiShield a call today.