Home insulation plays a crucial role in maintaining a comfortable indoor environment while minimizing energy consumption. However, over time, insulation can become damaged or degrade, making it less effective and increasing your energy costs. The R-value, which measures the resistance of heat flow through the insulation, can be negatively impacted by various factors.
In this article, we will explore the reasons you may need to replace your home insulation, the benefits of upgrading and how a professional home energy audit by Valiant Energy Solutions can help you make an informed decision.
“It’s important that your home’s insulation be intact and checked periodically for damage to help maximize its energy-efficiency.”
-Jason Meckowski, Home Solutions Technician
Rodent damage
Rodents such as mice and rats can access and damage home insulation, creating holes and reducing its effectiveness. Besides compromising insulation performance, rodent infestations can also pose health hazards.
Home renovations
Major home improvement projects can disturb or damage your insulation. Construction work, wiring upgrades or plumbing repairs may require the removal or alteration of insulation, which can lead to gaps or reduced R-values.
Compression
Storing items in the attic or stepping on insulation can compress it, decreasing its R-value and effectiveness. Properly installed insulation should be fluffy and maintain its original thickness to provide optimal thermal resistance.
Air infiltration
Gaps in the attic floor can cause air to move through the insulation, making it dirty and reducing its R-value. Over time, this infiltration can also lead to moisture problems and the growth of mold and mildew.
Improper installation
Incorrect installation of insulation can negatively impact its performance. In most cases, the paper or vapor barrier should face the heated living space, not the unheated attic. Misaligned insulation or improperly sealed seams can also result in reduced R-values.
Outdated insulation
Insulation materials and installation techniques have improved significantly over the years. Homes built before 1970 are likely to have outdated insulation with lower R-values, making an upgrade a wise investment.
Valiant Energy Solutions offers homeowners a comprehensive Home Energy Audit to identify potential insulation solutions. Our team of qualified energy professionals will conduct an in-depth assessment of your home, inspecting the insulation in your attic, walls and crawlspace. They will also assess your windows and doors for drafts to seal up any small gaps that might be costing you on energy efficiency. Additionally, our experts inspect and test ductwork for air leaks and provide rebate eligible LED light bulbs to lower your electricity consumption. Finally, they can suggest water usage improvements to help conserve resources and protect the environment while also saving money on utility bills.
By conducting a professional Home Energy Audit with Valiant Energy Solutions, you can rest assured that every aspect of your home’s energy efficiency is carefully inspected and assessed so you can make informed decisions about upgrades and repairs conducive to improved comfort and energy savings. Our knowledgeable professionals are devoted to helping you enhance your home’s performance today–so don’t wait any longer. Take action and start maximizing the efficiency of your home now by scheduling a Home Energy Audit with us.
