Insulation is a vital component in any home; it makes it easier to keep your house warm in the winter and cool in the summer.
Some of the most common thermal insulation materials include fiberglass, cellulose, mineral wool, and polyurethane foam. And while they’re durable, they can wear out over time.
Take fiberglass batt, for example, they tend to fall from ceilings or crawl spaces after a while.
Want to improve your winter heating? Not sure whether or not you should replace your insulation? If so, you’re on the right page. Keep reading for everything that you need to know!
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6 Signs That You Need to Replace Your Insulation
Proper insulation for your home will help you cut down on your heating bills. Here are a few signs that it needs to be replaced!
1. Indoor Drafts
Are there noticeable drafts inside the house? If so, there might be problems with the insulation.
Check to see if it’s coming from a crawl space or from the attic. Also, you want to make sure that your windows and doors are properly sealed.
2. Animal Infestation
Unwanted critters such as rats and squirrels can make themselves at home in your attic. As you can imagine, that can affect your insulation.
Not to mention that they can pose a health hazard. For one thing, they can easily spread disease through their urine and droppings. On top of that, they can trigger allergies.
3. Unpleasant Odors
It can become wet due to various reasons (e.g. high humidity, heavy rain). And over time, this can lead to mold growth, which is characterized by an unpleasant odor.
So if you notice a smell, it may be time to get your insulation replaced.
4. High Energy Bills
Poor insulation can cause your electric bills to go up. Why? The outdoor temperatures can sneak into your home, which means that your air conditioner will have to work overtime.
Similarly, your heater will have to work harder to keep the house warm during the winter.
5. Old Insulation
Insulation materials do have lifespans—that is, they should be replaced every 15 years or so. So if your insulation looks dull and grey, it might be time for a replacement.
Tip: Consider hiring a professional for the job instead of doing it yourself. You never know whether or not its removal will unleash harmful substances such as asbestos into the air.
6. Cold Walls
Cold walls are a sign that the heat in your house isn’t sticking around long enough to keep the room warm. If that’s the case, you might want to call someone in to have a look at your insulation.
Improving Your Winter Heating
As you can see, insulation problems can affect your winter heating in various ways. The good news is that there are signs that you can watch for!
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