Adding insulation to your attic helps keep the inside of your home warm and cozy. It also protects your roof from rot and mold growth that can cause significant damage. It also reduces noise and improves air quality.
Properly insulated attics help save you money on your energy bills and can boost your home’s value. It can also prevent your pipes from freezing and bursting, which can cause expensive water and plumbing damage.
Insulation can be made from various materials, including fiberglass and cellulose. It can be blown in or loose-filled, and can be applied to the ceiling, walls, and attic floors.
Batts and rolls of fiberglass, or blanket insulation, are an inexpensive way to insulate your attic space. They come in different thicknesses and can be easily cut to fit gaps. You should wear a mask and gloves for your safety, as fiberglass is a lung and skin irritant.
Cellulose is another popular option, which consists of recycled paper products. It is blown into your attic using a specific machine. It is less expensive than rigid foam board and works well to stop heat loss.
Spray foam insulation is a high-tech option that’s great at blocking air flow and leakage in an unmatched manner. It can be a little pricey upfront, but it will pay for itself in the long run.
It can be installed by a professional or done on your own, but both options require careful attention. It’s important to follow the manufacturer’s instructions and take all safety precautions. If you’re not a trained professional, you could end up with an under-insulated attic or with a soggy mess from trapped moisture.
In addition, there are a few common mistakes that you can make while installing insulation that will make the job more difficult. Among them, you should not use too much fiberglass material; this can restrict airflow between layers and render the insulation ineffective.
The most effective type of attic insulation is blown-in cellulose. It costs more up front, but it will save you money in the long run and will help protect your home from moisture.
Keeping condensation out of your attic is another benefit of insulation, because it can prevent mold and mildew from growing in your attic space. It can also prevent odors from developing in your attic.
This type of insulation consists of tiny chunks of cellulose or glass wool that are blown into your attic. It can be used for new buildings that aren’t insulated, or for existing ones that have been insulated but need an additional layer of insulation.
Loose-fill insulation is a popular option for attics that have little headroom and multiple obstructions, such as vents or cross-beams. It can be blown over a existing layer of insulation and can be made from cellulose, fiberglass, or mineral wool.
While it can be a little tricky to install, blown-in cellulose is an excellent choice for homeowners who want a more energy efficient attic and don’t mind the upfront cost. It’s also an environmentally friendly choice since it is made from recycled materials.