How to Tell if Your Attic Insulation Has Gone Bad?

Almost every homeowner questions if, at any point in the future, the insulation in their homes will ‘go bad.’ The answer is ‘yes,’ and questioning the longevity of your insulation is only natural. 

Did you know that during blown in fiberglass insulation installation, you must maintain a precise amount of wetness, humidity, and temperature? You must also mix it thoroughly and apply it with solid pressure. As for upkeep, a few years after installation, you could require a touch-up. Crazy, right? Well, we’ve combined all the facts we know so you can tell if your attic insulation has “gone bad.”

Here are some questions you should ask yourself if you think your attic insulation has expired or “gone bad.”

Is Your Home 10+ Years Old?

When appropriately used, spray foam insulation can last many years. What about the additional insulation types? Professionals claim that it has a lifespan of up to 20 years, comparable to cellulose insulation. 

However, people have blown in fiberglass insulation. What is the lifespan of fiberglass insulation? According to experts, the lifespan of mineral wool or rock wool insulation installations can range from 25 to over 100 years. Again, while all these figures are comforting, you shouldn’t depend only on them and disregard the need for attic insulation. 

It is necessary to periodically inspect different insulation types, including fiberglass insulation, for physical and water damage. Fiberglass insulation dirt and dark patches may be signs of attic air leakage.

Although fiberglass batts are a decent filler for dust, they are not the best option for air leakage. Air leaks waste energy in homes, whereas conditioned air leaks spread moisture, leading to mold development and decay. 

Given its various lifespans and factors to consider, when should insulation be replaced? Certified attic professionals advise when to replace attic insulation as a general rule of thumb. Perform routine inspections and maintenance every 15 to 20 years.

What’s the Standard Temperature in Your Home?

It’s said that only time will tell, but your home’s temperature can also. Temperature changes are one of the indicators of inadequate attic insulation. Either one room is a touch too cold, or another area of the home is a little too hot. Your HVAC system could be running nonstop to keep a comfortable temperature in your house, which would explain why your energy bill is far greater than that of your neighbors or acquaintances. 

The type of insulation in your crawl space has to be replaced if there are also occasional cold air currents in some rooms or across the entire house. 

Experts in attic insulation may do an energy audit on your house to ensure it is energy efficient and that you aren’t overpaying for electricity. Naturally, they recommend blown in fiberglass insulation. 

Did you know that various rooms in your house require different kinds of insulation with varying R-values? For instance, different required R-values are specified for wall and floor insulation. The R-value of insulation can be used to gauge its efficacy. 

Speaking with licensed attic professionals and taking your time is advisable since attic insulation is a science.

Is There Anyone in Your Home Whos Been Having Allergy Symptoms?

Unfortunately, you can also deduce whether your attic insulation is failing by looking at the residents of your home. Has your partner had a cough due to allergies for several months? The cough won’t go away no matter how carefully the house is cleaned or what medication the doctor prescribes.

It might be time to inspect the insulation in your attic. Even the most resilient attic insulation is susceptible to unforeseen water damage. 

Mold and mildew thrive in wet insulation. Due to toxic mold, Family members may tire, have itchy skin and eyes, and develop sore throats. Asthma may get worse or mature, and it may even hasten age. 

Don’t disregard these red flags. You should have excellent air quality, free of mold and mildew spores, for you and your family.

How Can Poor Insulation Appear?

Visual examination is the most straightforward technique to identify good insulation since seeing is believing. Once the attic insulation begins to crumble, break apart, move, thin, and get damp, schedule a visit from a reliable attic insulation provider.

Other telltale signs include apparent damage, grime, dander, and icicles in the winter. A further non-visual indicator, in addition to variations in temperature and utility costs, is increased noise within the home. 

Conclusion

If you’ve experienced these signs, it may be time to call the professionals. 

Zavza Seal takes care of insulation and aftercare. We let our services speak for themselves. We argue that your home is better than the contractors that help maintain it. Zavza Seal has been in the contracting business for 20+ years. Call today for a free estimate.