Home insulation is a crucial part of home maintenance, increased energy efficiency, and optimum comfort. However, several homeowners in their bid to insulate their homes often make common mistakes that end up reducing their insulation’s effectiveness. Homeowners need to avoid making these mistakes to ensure optimum insulation, home comfort, and energy efficiency.
Not Assessing Home Insulation Needs
The first mistake most homeowners make is not properly assessing their home insulation needs. Usually, most homeowners assume all they need is to just add more insulation to their homes. However, the insulation needs of homes are unique and vary based on the house’s age, location, insulation type, and more. Therefore, before insulating your home, it’s essential to hire a professional to assess your home insulation needs thoroughly.
Ignoring Air Seals
When Insulating a home, air leaks can reduce the effectiveness of insulation. Air leaks can be caused by improper sealing of windows, doors, and other openings that create gaps. Insulating without air sealing is a common mistake homeowners make. To ensure air leaks are prevented, an air barrier must be installed before insulating. This ensures that no air leaks through the insulation and that your home stays comfortable regardless of the season.
Adding Insulation to Wet or Damaged Attics
Another common mistake homeowners make is insulating wet or damaged attics. Attics are susceptible to moisture damage, and insulation turned wet or damaged, would impact the insulation’s effectiveness. It’s important that before adding insulation, the attic must be thoroughly inspected to ensure that there are no moisture or damage issues that will affect the insulation. Additionally, a good attic ventilation system helps to reduce the accumulation of moisture and heat that can cause damage to the insulation.
Using The Wrong Insulation Type
Insulation types vary, and homeowners often make mistakes in selecting the right insulation type that suits their home. Some insulation types are better suited for certain home areas. For instance, spray foam insulation is better for insulating attics, while batt insulation is good for walls. Therefore, it’s crucial for homeowners to understand the different insulation types and their suitability to effectively insulate their homes. Consulting with a professional insulation contractor helps homeowners to choose the right insulation type for their home.
Insufficient Insulation
Due to improper insulation assessment, most homeowners often install insufficient insulation. Insufficient insulation creates gaps, allowing heat and cold air to escape and enter the home. When inadequately installed, insulation fails to create an adequate barrier, reducing its effectiveness, and ultimately, your home’s energy efficiency. To ensure that your home is adequately insulated, professionals need to be consulted to determine the right amount of insulation needed.
Conclusion
Proper insulation is essential for home comfort, energy efficiency, and better indoor air quality. While homeowners may want to handle their home insulation, it’s essential to avoid making common insulation mistakes. Homeowners must properly assess their insulation needs, air seals, avoid adding insulation to damaged or wet attics, utilize the right insulation type, and ensure they have the right amount of insulation installed. By avoiding these common insulation errors, homeowners can enjoy an energy-efficient home, reduced energy bills, and better comfort year-round.