Investing in attic insulation Houston can significantly reduce your energy bills. There are various types of attic insulation, and you can choose from unfaced fiberglass, encapsulated insulation, or a combination of these. Each type has its advantages and disadvantages. Before you begin insulating your attic, measure the depth and R-value of the existing insulation. If you’re not sure about the benefits of this insulation, read on for some helpful information.
Adding additional insulation to your attic is an easy way to reduce energy costs. Unlike other types of insulation, you don’t have to use the same type. You can add loose fill on top of fiberglass batts or blankets. It is important to choose a type of insulation that doesn’t have a backing (known as “unfaced” insulation). To add loose fill to your attic, you will need a blowing machine. Many home improvement stores rent blowing machines.
Another option for attic insulation is blown cellulose. It has excellent coverage and has a low R-value. However, blown cellulose tends to settle over time, causing your energy bills to increase. This type of insulation must be accompanied by a vapor barrier to prevent condensation and water damage. If you’re unsure whether to install cellulose or fiberglass, be sure to consult a qualified professional. It’s important to check the R-value of the material before installing it, as it will affect the comfort of your home.
Another inexpensive option is fiberglass batt. Made from plastic reinforced with small glass fibers, it’s considered the best attic insulation. Unfortunately, it can also cause lung and skin irritations. In addition, the glazing used to cover this material is often made of recycled glass. Because of this, cellulose is too dense to be used as spot insulation. You must also consider the type of insulation you’ll use in your attic. Hopefully, you’ll find the right solution for your attic insulation needs. It might even save you money.
Spray foam is another type of attic insulation. Its benefits include a solid barrier against air leakage, but is often expensive and requires complex installation. This type of insulation does not have as high a R-value as fiberglass, so you should consult a professional before deciding to go this route. The benefits of spray foam are that it offers a solid seal and does not lose its R-value over time. Moreover, the cost is cheaper than fiberglass.
Another important consideration when insulating your attic is water. Water is an enemy of insulation, creating an ideal breeding ground for mold and destroying the air-trapping pockets that block heat flow. Check for any signs of water stains and damp spots on the ceiling. If you notice mold or water, it’s likely your attic has a leak. Mineral-wool attic insulation can only be installed in areas where light fixtures can reach them. You can use scrap plywood to create a three-inch safety gap around light fixtures.
Batts and rolls of attic insulation come in various materials. Batts are a good choice if you don’t have a lot of headroom in your attic. Batts and rolls can also be trimmed to fit around vents and joists. Batts, in particular, have a high R-value, which means they will provide excellent insulation. Batts are not as effective as cellulose and can get moldy if exposed to excessive moisture.
Another important consideration in choosing attic insulation is climate. The R-value of the insulation determines how well it traps heat. A higher R-value is better for insulating a cold climate, while a warmer climate requires only R-38 insulation. In areas with colder temperatures, an R-value of fifty or higher is recommended for attic insulation. If the climate is mild, you can opt for a lower R-value of attic insulation.
Another type of attic insulation is mineral wool. This material comes in two forms: rock wool and slag wool. Rock wool is made from natural minerals, while slag wool is made from the waste products of molten metal. Both materials have a good R-value, but are more expensive than other types of insulation. Mineral wool is not the best choice for older homes. It can absorb moisture and cause mold to grow. Hence, it’s important to add attic insulation in this part of the house.
Whether you decide to install insulation yourself or hire a contractor, you should seal all air leaks in the attic. For example, cracks in the ceiling and gaps around ventilation ducts should be sealed with caulking. Another way to seal the edges of light fixtures is to install them in “IC” ratings. Afterwards, you can install attic insulation on top of them safely. Finally, check weatherstripping around attic access hatches and pull-stairs.