Home insulation is key when it comes to proper heating and cooling of your home. If you have an older home, it may be time to replace your home’s insulation. Like with most materials, insulation deteriorates over time. If worn insulation is not replaced, your home could turn into an icebox during the winter and sauna during the summer, and have your electricity bills through the roof!
So how do you know when to replace your home’s insulation? To find out if it’s time, here are some signs of warn out insulation:
- High utility bills: Since heating and air conditioning account for a significant portion of your utility bill, a spike often means that the system is regularly turning on to account for a cold or warm draft in the house, depending on the season. Replacing the insulation will help regulate the temperature and lower your monthly bill.
- Inconsistent room temperatures: Stepping into that room feels warmer/cooler compared to other rooms in your home is a sure sign of an insulation issue. Inadequate insulation can result in inconsistent temperatures which will also lead to spikes in your heating/cooling bills.
- Signs of aging: Older homes have lower quality insulation than newer ones. The best way to test for signs of aging is to put on a glove and feel the insulation in the attic. If it starts to crumble, it’s time to replace it with newer, higher quality insulation that will last longer.
- Pests: Insects and other pests like to make homes in insulation, especially in attics and basements. If you’ve ever had an infestation in your home, it’s important to check the insulation. If there are any signs of infestation, it’s best to have it replaced to avoid future pest problems.
- Water damage: Any flooding or heavy rains can seep through the roof or walls into your insulation. If the insulation isn’t properly dried afterward, it starts to mold. If you live in an area with high moisture or have experienced a flood, there’s a pretty good chance that your insulation will need to be replaced.
Cesi Pagano
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