Your home is your castle, so it’s understandable when you want to invest in the best heating and cooling equipment. However, you still need to contend with uncomfortable interiors if you do not have the best insulation.
Multiple insulation alternatives exist, and you should choose one that suits your home, the materials, and the climate in your area. Most people to assume that they are well-equipped to pick and install their property’s insulation. This is a costly mistake that could raise energy expenses and create uncomfortable interiors.
Unfortunately, most people opt to remove their non-functioning wall and roof insulation without expert help. Often they spread the insulation material indoors, and then they may need additional cleaning procedures to get rid of the material. Sometimes the best way to save money is to get expert help, but would you recognize the signs that your home needs new insulation materials?
The following are indications that it is time for the removal and replacement of your insulation.
Lingering Unpleasant Odors
At times even the most thorough indoor cleaning does not get rid of an unpleasant odor. Some insulation material could become moldy with heat and moisture. Other than spray foam insulation, most insulation materials are not waterproof and will absorb some amount of water.
Ground moisture and extreme humidity contribute to the formation of mold and mildew on your home’s walls and attic. Checking your insulated spaces without damaging the insulation may not be doable, and you may need someone who has the proper safety equipment to do so.
Worsening Allergies
Even doctors will be baffled by the persistent flare-ups of allergic conditions among the occupants of your home. This can be attributed to the mold spores that will spread in your interiors when neglected. It also arises from the tendency of some insulation materials to accumulate dust over time. The removal of your insulation, its replacement, and the air sealing are the ideal steps for keeping allergies at bay.
Water Damage
Wet floors, dark or brown splotches across your ceiling, and peeling paint on any surface are common signs of water leaks. Ineffective insulation will indirectly contribute to significant water damage. If for instance, your water pipes are not well insulated, freezing water may cause them to burst or spring leaks that contribute to your property’s water damage. And with sufficient damage, it may be time to get a new roof, too.
Household Pests
Pests will feed on old insulation materials. Though fiberglass is effective, inexpensive and popular, rodents love tearing it apart. The holes created in your insulation by the rodents
form the perfect entry spot for other insects and dangerous animals like snakes. Air sealing your property can avert the invasion of your home by pests to some degree, but it is not completely secure.
These are not the only signs of damaged or ineffective insulation. They could also be signs of something else, and most homeowners could waste their money on unnecessary services and high medical bills before realizing their insulation is the primary cause of their issues. Your best choice is to have your insulation installed and maintained by professionals so you know when to remove and replace insulation.
