If you want to save money on your energy bills, you should consider adding attic insulation. Studies show that 90% of attics are under-insulated, costing homeowners over $200 a year in wasted heating and cooling costs. Add insulation to your attic and make sure it is well sealed and airtight and you will see a fast payback in your utility bills.
Before you start, clear out the attic space and remove any boxes or household furniture. Also, be sure to check for and repair any leaking air vents. You should also check your current attic R-Value. This can be done by hooking a tape measure to the center of a wall joist and measuring length-wise to the next joist. Using this measurement, you can determine the current R-Value of your attic and calculate how much additional loose-fill insulation or fiberglass batts are needed to reach the recommended R-38+ rating.
Helpful Tips for Installing Attic Insulation
Spray foam insulation can be blown in with a blower machine (available for rent at most home improvement stores) or purchased as blown-in cellulose, fiberglass or foam board. If you choose to use cellulose, it is best to have a professional install it so the material is densely packed. The density of the insulation helps reduce voids and slows down heat flow, which can damage the shingles on your roof.
If you’re looking for a less costly option, you can lay a layer of standard fiberglass roll insulation over your existing attic insulation. It is important to note that the fiberglass insulation should be unfaced and not have paper or foil backings. If you are adding insulation to an existing home that already has a cathedral ceiling, look into installing rigid foam insulation between the wood rafters. This will increase the R-Value and eliminate thermal bridging through the wooden rafters.
CEC Spray Foam
203 Cole Dr, Hampstead, NC 28443
(910) 833-4521
