Upgrade Your Attic: Maximizing
Comfort and Savings with Insulation
Did you know that 9 out of 10 homes in the United States are under-insulated?
That’s right, according to energystar.gov, inadequate insulation is a prevalent issue that affects a majority of households.
But what exactly does insulation have to do with your home’s comfort and energy efficiency? Let’s dive into the details and discover how upgrading your attic insulation can make a significant difference.
R-Values: Old Standards Allow Lesser Attic Insulation
Insulation is typically measured using R-values, which represent the material’s thermal resistance or its ability to resist heat flow.
Higher R-values translate to better insulation, ensuring a cooler home in the summer and a warmer one in the winter.
It’s important to note that the current building code for residential attic spaces recommends a minimum of R49. However, many homes constructed before 1990 have insulation levels as low as R19 or even less.
By adding attic insulation, you can significantly enhance your home’s comfort and save money on heating and cooling costs.
Air Sealing: Stopping Attic Air Leaks
Now, let’s discuss another crucial aspect: air sealing.
Air leaks within your home lead to a tremendous waste of energy. By sealing any leaks in the attic before adding insulation, you create an airtight space that allows the insulation to perform even better.
We cannot stress enough the importance of air sealing as it plays a vital role in creating a high-performing and energy-efficient home.
Don’t Forget About Your Crawl Space
But what about crawl spaces?
If your home has a crawl space, it’s highly likely that it lacks any insulation. This oversight can have a substantial impact on both comfort and energy efficiency, as it allows unconditioned air to infiltrate the living space.
By insulating your crawl space, you can effectively prevent air from seeping in, resulting in improved comfort and enhanced energy efficiency throughout your home.
Insulation to Avoid
You want your insulation to solve problems in your home, not cause a host of new ones.
That is why you should avoid blown-in cellulose.
Most importantly, it presents a fire hazard. It also doesn’t respond well to water (think mold or needing to replace entire sections) or time (compaction leaves large areas uninsulated).
Fiberglass and spray foam offer both better performance and none of the negative side effects.
Save on Attic Insulation With Rebate Programs
At Garrity Insulation, we take pride in being a participating contractor with PNM and the NM Gas Company rebate programs. These initiatives aim to help homeowners offset the cost of upgrading insulation.
By investing in your home and creating a more comfortable and energy-efficient environment for your family, you not only improve your day-to-day living but also make a significant contribution towards a greener future.
Don’t let insufficient insulation compromise your home’s comfort and drain your wallet through excessive energy bills. Upgrade your attic today, and reap the benefits of enhanced comfort, energy savings, and a more sustainable lifestyle.
Contact Garrity Insulation to learn more about our services and take the first step towards a better-insulated home.
