Weatherproof Your Home’s Attic

Weatherproof Your Home?s Attic

Your attic can have a significant impact on your energy efficiency and comfort. If it is poorly insulated or ventilated, your house may lose a great deal of heat in the winter and gain it in the summer, driving up your utility bills. Proper attic insulation and air sealing can prevent these problems.

You can add attic insulation on your own, but it is often best to hire a professional for larger projects. Depending on the type of insulation you choose, there are many different options to fit your needs and budget. You can install fiberglass rolls, loose fill or cellulose blankets. The most popular option is fiberglass, which is available in a variety of R-values and can be cut to fit gaps in the attic. Loose-fill and cellulose blanket insulation are usually made from natural materials such as cotton, mineral wool or recycled paper. They may be more affordable than foam, but they do not have as high an R-value.

Foam insulation boards are usually made of polyurethane, polystyrene or polyisocyanurate. They have a higher R-value than loose-fill or cellulose and provide twice the thermal resistance of fiberglass. They are easy to install, but require special tools and can be difficult to remove later if necessary.

Comfort Starts With Proper Attic Insulation

In the winter, a properly-ventilated attic allows natural flow of outdoor air to help cool your house. It also reduces the chance of ice damming, which is caused when snow melts off the roof and re-freezes at the gutters. To keep the attic ventilation system working effectively, make sure to install a gable or ridge vent. Also, remember to install rafter vents in the attic and use bathroom and kitchen fans to reduce moisture.

Strategic Spray Foam Insulation, LLC
813 W King St, Boone, NC 28607
(919) 842-5925