Do I Know If I Need Attic Insulation

If you found wet and damp drywall and paneling during the touch test or uncomfortable rooms during the comfort test this is also a clear indication that your insulation needs an upgrade.

Do i know if i need attic insulation.

At a minimum homes should have attic insulation between r 22 and r 49 6 to 13 in. A quick way to see if you need more insulation is to look across your attic floor. First things first you need to go up into your attic inspect the condition of the insulation and calculate the current level of insulation. Check with the local building department to find the recommended level for your area or visit energysavers gov.

If your insulation level is at or below the top of the floor joists you probably need to add more insulation but remember to seal the air leaks before you insulate. There are many types to choose from including blown in cellulose batt such as fiberglass mineral wool or cotton. If your insulation is just level with or below your floor joists i e you can easily see your joists you should add more. Even the most energy efficient heating and cooling systems will be forced to work harder in homes that are not properly insulated.

Your attic should have a certain amount of insulation in it and the recommended level of insulation for your attic is dependent on where you live. Of loose fill or 7 to 19 in. A properly insulated home can help reduce energy consumption while making your home more comfortable all year round. Then use the numbers in the chart at right to estimate its r value.

After confirming that your attic is air sealed you need to select insulation. But you may find your money is better spent insulating outlets and. If you find the ceiling beneath the attic is well above room temperature then it s a good idea to add more insulation there. In most homes but especially in older homes adding insulation in the attic will cut heat loss.

Attic insulation is a key factor when trying to get the most out of your energy dollars. However there are a few easy things you can do to see if your attic is properly insulated. There are four especially common signs of problems with attic insulation. Pull up and dispose of any material that s compressed water stained or moldy it s useless.

Inspecting your attic insulation. Common signs of problems with insulation. No matter what kind of insulation you currently have in your attic one quick way to determine if you need more is to look across the span of your attic.