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5 Signs You Have an Air Duct Leak

Written by Kevin on . Posted in Air Duct Repair. No Comments on 5 Signs You Have an Air Duct Leak

Air duct leaks are a common problem that can seriously impact your monthly utility bills, the air quality in your home and can lead to you needing an air duct repair. But how do you know when you’ve got a leaky air duct? To help you, we’ve assembled our top 5 signs that an air duct leak may be occurring in your ductwork.

#1: Uneven Heating and Cooling

If you’re noticing that certain areas of your home just don’t seem to get cold or warm when your HVAC system runs, it may be a sign of duct leakage. In houses with an air duct leak, you may be losing as much as 30% of the air passing through the system into the unconditioned spaces of your house like your attic or crawl space. This affects the system’s ability to effectively distribute cold or hot air to certain parts of your home, which results in uneven heating or cooling.

#2: Excessive Dust

If you’ve noticed that there just seems to be no end to the amount of dust in your home, it may be the result of an air duct leak. Air ducts are often placed in the unconditioned spaces of your home, like crawl spaces and attics. An air duct leak in a dusty attic or crawl space will allow dust to enter the system and be distributed throughout your home.

One problem with this, besides the unsightly appearance of dust on all of your furniture, is that dust negatively impacts your home’s indoor air quality. Dust that collects and settles in attics can contain environmental contaminants that are then spread throughout your home by an air duct leak. To avoid this, keep your ductwork sealed and your attic cleaned and free of dust.

#3: Rising Utility Bills

Your utility bills can be a good benchmark for whether your home’s energy efficiency is affected by leaky duct work. If you notice that your utility bills are higher, you may want to take the time to inspect your ductwork. Air leaks can allow a significant percentage, up to 30%, of the conditioned air passing through your ductwork to escape into your attic. That’s just money lost!

Estimates vary for how much of an impact that lost air has on your utility bills. In regions where air conditioning is continuously run, those leaky air ducts have an estimate to account for up to 35% of a home’s entire energy load. This means addressing those leaky air ducts is one of the most cost-effective ways to boost your home’s energy efficiency, particularly if you run your HVAC system regularly.

#4: Unable to Cool or Heat Certain Rooms

If you have rooms that just won’t respond to your air conditioning or heater, there’s a good chance an air leak in the ducts is the culprit. Duct air leaks rob your system of the air pressure needed to cool or heat areas of your home effectively. If you’re noticing it only in one room, it may be that the air leak is affecting only that branch of your duct system. 

Take a moment to assess the condition of that duct if you can do so safely. You’ll probably find a tear, frayed seal, or some other indication that a leaking duct may be occurring. Looking for these visual indicators is a straightforward method for how to check air ducts for leaks, but it won’t tell you the whole story. To determine how much your entire system is leaking air, you’ll probably need a professional assessment.

#5: Damaged, Brittle or Old Ductwork

If you’ve looked at your ductwork and noticed any damage, broken seals, or gaps between joints, you are almost certainly leaking air from your ducts. Many homes built in the 1980s and 1990s had ducts that leaked around 20% of the air passing through them when they were new. That number has only risen over the years, as sealants become less effective and ductwork suffers from the ravages of time. 

If your ductwork looks old and brittle or shows obvious signs of wear, consider having it professionally assessed. A quick repair, such as duct sealing or targeted replacement may quickly pay for itself by reducing the percentage of air lost from the system each time you turn on your air conditioning. If you want to avoid high air duct replacement costs, consider addressing the problem as soon as possible.

What to do if You Suspect a Leak

If you suspect an air duct leak, you’re probably wondering what to do next and how to check air ducts for any leakage. If you can do so safely, narrowing down the location of the leak and size of the leak can help you determine whether it is something you can repair yourself. Ductwork often passes through the attic, so be very mindful of your footing and safety if you choose to track down the leak.

Alternatively, call our team at Attic Construction! We offer air duct cleaning and repair services and help you determine the extent of the problem and outline possible solutions. 

Even if you repair yourself, it’s a good idea to have your air ducts professionally cleaned after a leak. While fixing air duct leaks will return integrity to the system, it won’t remove any contaminants that may have entered your system when there was a leak. Thorough cleaning after you seal up your system will ensure only clean air is passing through your system into your home.

Closing Thoughts

Finding and fixing air duct leaks can be a challenge, but for many homeowners, simply recognizing a problem with their air duct system can be a hurdle. Keep an eye out for common signs of an air duct leak, such as difficulty circulating cold air into certain rooms in your home, excessive dust throughout your house, or rising utility bills. 

If you suspect an air duct leak or simply want to have your ductwork inspected, contact our team at Attic Construction today! We’ve helped hundreds of homeowners address their ductwork problems, resulting in better energy efficiency, higher air quality in the home, and more comfortable conditioned spaces. To schedule an inspection or learn more about our services, contact us today.

Sources:

  1. “Duct Dynasty*” https://www.buildingscience.com/documents/insights/bsi-074-duct-dynasty
  2. “Why You Need to Air Seal Your Home” https://www.greenintegrateddesign.com/blog/air-sealing-your-home
  3. “Air Duct Replacement Cost Guide” https://homealliance.com/blogs/air-duct-replacement-cost-guide#:~:text=The%20best%20is%20to%20call,you%20are%20going%20to%20use.

 

Air Duct Replacement Costs vs Repair

Written by Kevin on . Posted in Air Duct Repair. No Comments on Air Duct Replacement Costs vs Repair

The air ducts in your home can have a large impact on your home’s energy efficiency and air quality, which is why you’ll want to ensure that they’re kept clean and in good shape.

Understanding the cost difference between air duct repair and replacement is important for homeowners to decide the best course of action for them.

Key Factors Affecting Replacement Costs

If you need to have your ductwork replaced, a few key factors will contribute to the total air duct replacement cost. These factors include the job location, the job’s size, how easy your ductwork is to access, and the type of material used for the replacement.

 Let’s dive into each of these in detail so you can better understand how they affect the cost of duct replacement.

Geographic Location

Your home location will be one of the most significant determining factors for the overall cost of replacing your ducting if you have it professionally done, including labor costs. 

As big of a factor as labor can be, you’ll still most likely want any replacement job done by a team of professionals. Not only will it go quicker, but some key considerations must be kept in mind during replacement so that you don’t lose money every time you turn on your air conditioning.

Job Size

The job’s size will also be a critical determining factor in the final cost of the project. Most contractors will charge per-linear foot of ductwork being replaced or produce an estimate based on the number of ducts. Larger homes will require more ductwork, which will result in higher project costs. 

Note that the material cost for completing the job yourself will also be significantly higher for larger jobs, so keep this in mind when comparing the cost of doing it yourself versus having it professionally done.

Ease of Access

Jobs where the ductwork is difficult to access, will have higher costs. If portions of the ducts are located behind walls or in the ceiling, contractors will have to cut into them to complete the replacement. That will create quite a bit more work and result in a higher overall project cost.

Material Costs

The type of ductwork used is the final factor impacting the cost of the job. Sheet metal ducting tends to be the most durable but is also the most expensive. Flexible ducting is widely used as well, but less durable and not used over long distances. 

While the ductwork cost can vary widely depending on the chosen material, homeowners will need to consider the desired longevity of their new ductwork, their desired level of energy efficiency, and an HVAC professional’s recommendations to determine the ideal ducting material for them.

Repair vs. Replacement Costs

Broadly speaking, duct repairs are going to be less expensive than replacement. HomeAdvisor puts the nationwide average for duct replacement based on linear footage. Keep in mind that estimates are only so useful, particularly when estimating job costs in areas with a high cost-of-living.

Repair costs are even more challenging to place. Repairs often take the form of patching areas to return integrity to the system. Repairing is an excellent option if you just need to touch up air seals and connections. The cost of each repair job will come down to what needs to be repaired, how difficult it is to access, the price of individual components given your material choice, and any labor if you need the repair done professionally.

Ductwork Replacement Cost Estimates

Experts estimate that the average air duct replacement cost is between $454 and $2,058 or more, depending on the home’s size. This price breaks down to around $10 to $35 per linear foot. Typically, the larger the home, the higher the cost. Installing new ducts is more costly, with an average estimated cost to install ductwork being around $1,500 to $7,000 for 150 to 350 linear feet of ductwork. Keep in mind that this is all relative to a variety of factors that can influence the price being more or less than this average estimation cost.

Signs Your Ducting May Need an Overhaul

If you’re wondering how to know when you might have a problem with your air ducts, we’ve got a few signs you can keep an eye out for around your home. Keep in mind that regularly having your HVAC system serviced and your air ducts cleaned is a surefire way to catch any problems with your system early on. However, if you haven’t been diligent about regularly checking your air ducts, here are a few signs you may want to have them inspected:

  • Uneven Heating / Cooling – If you notice one room getting warmer than others, or a lack of airflow in specific rooms when your HVAC system is on, it may be a sign that you have an issue with the duct sealing causing leaky ducts.
  • Higher Utility Bills – Few problems around the house will have as direct an impact on your home’s energy efficiency as your air ducts. Homes with old ductwork or damaged air ducts can lose between 20 – 30% of the treated air passing through the system. Not only does that kind of loss rate mean that your HVAC system has to work harder to maintain the temperature in your home, but you’ll also have substantially higher utility costs.
  • Excessive Dust – If your home is dusty, it may be due to an air duct leak.. A leaky air duct may allow dust from your attic to mix with the conditioned air in the duct, which is then spread throughout your home. Unfortunately, that dust isn’t just unsightly and frustrating to clean. It can affect airflow, indoor air quality and contain environmental contaminants that have settled in your attic over time. 
  • Tears, Breaks, or Frayed Connections – An excellent way to tell if your air ducts are leaking is to simply look at them. Take a moment to visually inspect the exposed portions of your air ducts in your attic; be very mindful of doing so safely! If you can’t do so safely, consider having a professional inspection done. If you notice tears, gaps between connections, or breaks in ductwork, it can be a good indicator of a possible air duct leak.
  • Rooms that Don’t Cool – If you have a certain room that just won’t cool down no matter how long you run your air conditioning, it can be a fairly good sign that your air ducts and vent may be the culprit. The air meant for that room could be venting into your attic, wasting your money, and cooling nothing.

 

When Does Professional Help Make Sense?

Ductwork installation and air ductwork replacement can range from a relatively straightforward task to incredibly complicated. It depends on the job, the materials, and your level of experience working with HVAC ductwork systems. Sometimes, it can be difficult for many homeowners to know what types of jobs are better left to the professionals.

For a minor duct repair, such as touching an old duct or replacing existing ductwork , you are probably fine doing the task yourself. Be mindful of using the correct materials, always have appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE) available, and align your work with industry-accepted best-practices and building requirements for where you live.

Consider a professional installation for anything more extensive than a repair you feel comfortable and equipped to make. Here’s why:

Optimal Configuration

An experienced and competent HVAC installer will install your air duct system in a way that will deliver optimal airflow and energy efficiency. Poorly configured air ducts may not allow sufficient airflow to adequately cool your entire house or use inappropriately sized ducting, resulting in excessive noise during operations.

More Efficient

A great ductwork installation can bring the air loss from the ducting down to around 4-5%. In contrast, poorly installed air ducts will leak between 20-30% of the air passing through the system. In areas where air conditioning makes up a large proportion of overall home energy costs, duct leakage can account for around 30% of a home’s total energy load.

Better Longevity

A professionally maintained network of air ducts will likely be more durable and retain its efficiency longer than air ducts installed by non-professionals. A common mistake homeowners make is using cloth-backed tape to seal joints rather than duct mastic or installing flexible ductwork , which can significantly impact your system’s longevity and energy efficiency over time.

Complex Repairs or Replacements

If your repair or ductwork replacement is looking like it’s going to be complicated, it may be best to have a professional take a look. This is particularly true if you find that you’re going to have to cut into your walls, ceiling, or floor to replace or repair your air ducts. Before you commit to an extensive replacement project, you may want to get a second opinion to see if there’s a more modest alternative, such as a targeted repair.

Closing Thoughts

Repairing an existing air duct system will generally cost less than replacing an entire system with new ducts. The cost of replacement is usually quoted in price per linear foot, or by the number of ducts. The labor costs for the area you live in, ducting materials used, size of the job, and difficulty accessing the ductwork will all work together to determine the project’s overall cost.

If you’re ready to boost your home’s energy efficiency while also improving the air quality, consider Attic Construction. We understand the importance of well-sealed, clean, and properly installed air ducts. To take advantage of our air duct cleaning and repair services, or consider us for insulation installation or insulation removal in your attic. contact us today!

Sources:

  1. “How Much Does HVAC Duct Replacement Cost?” https://www.costimates.com/costs/heating-air-conditioning/central-hvac-duct/#:~:text=%24175%20%E2%80%93%20%24400%20Per%20Duct%20Run,%24175%20to%20%24400%20per%20duct.
  2. “5 Signs That Your Ductwork Needs to be Replaced” https://www.greenintegrateddesign.com/blog/5-signs-that-your-ductwork-needs-to-be-replaced
  3. “Duct Dynasty*” https://www.buildingscience.com/documents/insights/bsi-074-duct-dynasty
  4. “Types of Ductwork – What You Should Know” https://www.greenintegrateddesign.com/blog/what-you-need-to-know-about-ductwork-types
  5. “How Much Does It Cost To Replace Ducts Or Vents?” https://www.homeadvisor.com/cost/heating-and-cooling/install-ducts-and-vents/

 

 

 

 

Rodents in Your Attic

Written by Kevin on . Posted in Rodents in Attic. No Comments on Rodents in Your Attic

Every homeowner knows that rodents in the unfinished or unoccupied spaces of your home can spell trouble. If you see signs of rodents in your attic, it’s a good idea to address the problem head-on rather than put it off. Over time, rodents can cause significant damage to attic spaces and even impact your entire home’s energy efficiency and air quality.

To help homeowners dealing with a possible rodent problem in their attic, we’ve assembled a straightforward guide with clear and easy-to-understand steps. Though eliminating a rodent problem in your attic isn’t always easy, it is essential to ensure your home’s long-term habitability and durability. Let’s explore some of the steps you can take to deal with rodents in your attic, including attic cleanup and decontamination.

Be Proactive

Whether you end up addressing a rodent problem yourself or have a professional team assist you, you will want to address the issue proactively. Rodents won’t go away on their own, and attics offer a warm and attractive space filled with nesting material and shelter from predators.

The consequences of allowing a rodent infestation to become established in your attic are numerous. Rodents infestations:

  • Can damage your insulation and air ducts
  • Cause electrical issues
  • Can impact the energy efficiency of your home
  • Spread unhealthy air throughout your home
  • Lead to loss of stored property in attic spaces

Regardless of which method you prefer for how to get rid of rats in attic, be sure to act quickly and decisively at the first sign of a rodent problem. 

Assess What You are Dealing With

Determining the best course of action when confronted with rodents in your attic requires having enough information to make an informed decision. That starts with assessing the situation in your attic. 

If possible, you’ll want to know what types of rodents are living in your attic. Only try to determine what types of rodents are in your attic if you can do so safely. The footing in attics is notoriously precarious, so be mindful of only stepping on joists or boards laid across joists. If you don’t feel comfortable doing so yourself, look into having a professional come to your home for an attic inspection. 

If you find evidence of small rodents and there aren’t signs of extensive damage or large nests, the rodent problem may be something you can deal with yourself. If, however, you find the presence of larger rodents such as raccoons, or bats, you’ll want to leave their removal and relocation to the professionals. 

While you are in your attic, take a moment to assess the physical condition of the attic space. Is there obvious nesting material such as shredded cardboard or insulation? Do you see droppings or smell urine or feces? If there is a strong smell of rodent urine and feces, it’s a good indication that your rodent infestation is well established. 

Formulate a Plan

Your assessment of the attic should have given you some valuable information, including whether a rodent infestation is well-developed and what type of rodent or attic pests are there. Your next decision is to tackle the problem yourself or call in the professionals.

As a homeowner, not every job requires professional assistance. Some rodent-sized problems are entirely solvable on your own. If you choose to try to deal with the problem, you’ll want a clear idea of what type of rodent you are up against. With that information, you can either trap, poison, or have the rodents professionally removed. Finally, the most important step is to rodent proof your attic. 

Although trapping and poisoning are methods used, we do not recommend either. Rodents reproduce quickly, and as soon as you start to trap them, more will come. While trapping can solve an immediate rodent issue, it does not prevent any future re-infestation. Poisoning rodents is another option that we do not recommend. The downside to poison is that rodents need to ingest several doses, they can die in hard to reach places, and it can be dangerous for families with children or pets. We recommend hiring a professional to remove the rodents from your attic, as it is the most effective and safest option of the three. 

Stop Entry

It’s essential to stop the rodents from entering your attic. You will need to identify rodents’ entrance points into your attic and seal them, known as rodent proofing. Most attics in the United States are vented, and the mesh placed around these vent holes are common areas for rodents to enter. Seal any cracks you find in the building foundation, such as around water pipes.

You’ll need to seal any possible entrance or crawlspace a rodent might use and reinforce existing barriers that are worn from weather or age. Be sure to trim back any trees hanging close to your roof and ensure your rafters, gutters, and roof are clear and free of debris.

The UC IPM recommends not using the following materials for keeping rodents out:

  • Plastic screening
  • Wood
  • Rubber
  • Vinyl

A good rule of thumb is if the barrier is chewable in any way, it probably won’t keep rodents out for long. Remember that mice can fit in a hole the size of a nickel when choosing wire mesh for barriers. The UC IPM recommends closing off all gaps larger than ¼” to ensure mice and any larger rodents can’t enter your home.

If you find that your rodent issues persist, there’s a good chance that an entrance remains. Approach this step in a systematic, consistent way for the best results.

Keep it Sanitary

Rodents are attracted to unsanitary conditions. If you’re dealing with rodents in attic, take the time to clean up any debris near or around your house. Piles of leaves, stacks of firewood, or trash cans near your home can all serve as an attractive home for rodents.

Be sure to keep any cooking areas clean and quickly clean up any food spills, dishes, or cookware after meals. Regularly empty your trash, and get in the habit of putting away your pet food before you go to bed. 

You’ll also need to disinfect and clean any areas affected by the rodents while they were in your attic. This can be quite challenging and should only be undertaken with a clear understanding of the risks and adequate protective equipment. If you are unsure how to disinfect after a rodent infestation effectively, consider letting the professionals take care of it.

You should exercise caution when cleaning up after a rodent infestation because rodents can carry various communicable diseases. These include:

  • Hantavirus Pulmonary Syndrome – Can be spread through contact with infected rodent urine or feces or from dust mixed with rodent urine and feces
  • Lymphocytic Chorio-meningitis (LCM)  – Can be spread through direct contact or inhalation of contaminated rodent urine and feces
  • Leptospirosis – Can be spread by direct contact of the skin or mucous membranes with infected urine

Professionals Can Help!

If the rodents in your attic are driving you crazy and you aren’t sure what to do, don’t worry! While a rodent infestation can undoubtedly grate on the nerves and cause lots of damage, it is also a solvable problem with the right resources and experience.

Our team at Attic Construction has spent decades remediating attics after rodent infestations, so we understand exactly how severe and destructive a rodent problem in your attic is. We’ll be happy to work with you to get your attic back into great shape. With our professional rodent proofing services, you’ll be able to rest assured that your attic space is free from pesky rodents.

Closing Thoughts

Rodents in your attic are a serious issue that can lead to damage to your home and costly repairs. Though rodents in your attic can be a challenge, we’re here to help! Our team at Attic Construction has decades of experience helping homeowners like yourself address and recover from unwanted rodent residents in their attics. We offer rodent proofing services, as well as attic cleanup and decontamination to return your attic back to excellent condition. If you are in the region of southern California, we offer professional attic cleaning in Orange County, San Diego, and more.  We also provide attic services to the greater Phoenix, AZ area as well!To learn more about these services, contact us today!

Sources:

  1. “How to Manage Pests: Pests of Home, Structures, People, and Pets: House Mouse” https://ipm.ucanr.edu/PMG/PESTNOTES/pn7483.html?src=blog24161
  2. “Prevent Rodent Infestations” https://www.cdc.gov/rodents/prevent_infestations/index.html
  3. “Cleaning Up After Rodents” https://www.cdc.gov/rodents/cleaning/index.html
  4. “Diseases From Rodents” https://www.cdc.gov/rodents/diseases/index.html

 

What is Included in an Attic Inspection?

Written by Kevin on . Posted in Attic Cleanup. No Comments on What is Included in an Attic Inspection?

A professional attic inspection is something that should be done on an annual basis for most homes. Unfortunately, many homeowners aren’t aware of what an attic inspection service is, what occurs during an inspection, and why they should bother having one done. 

Let’s dive into why attic inspections should be a part of your regular home maintenance routine and what benefits a comprehensive professional attic inspection offers.

The Basics of Attic Inspections

During an attic inspection, a professional will come to your home, perform a comprehensive examination of your attic, and determine the overall health of your attic space. Since the attic is critical for your home’s air quality and energy efficiency, there are key areas that your inspector will pay attention to, including if you need attic cleanup and decontamination services. We’ll outline each in greater detail.

Checking Vents

Most homes built in the United States have vented attics. What this means is that the attic is outside of the conditioned space of your home. The air in your attic circulates passively with the air outside through vents around the perimeter of your home. In cold climates, attic vents reduce the likelihood of ice damming, which occurs when an attic is too warm causing snow to melt off the roof and refreeze in the gutters. In warm climates, attic ventilation allows hot air in the attic to vent to the outside.

Vents need to be free of any obstructions, are sufficient in number, and properly placed to allow for adequate air exchange. Additionally, attic vents need to be adequately secured to prevent rodent access. During an attic inspection, the inspector will assess each of your attic vents to ensure they meet these standards.

Assess Insulation

Do you have a sufficient amount of insulation in your attic? Is that insulation in good condition? These are two basic but critical questions that the attic inspection will yield. The state of your attic insulation is an incredibly important factor in how energy efficient your home is. 

Homes with poorly insulated attics will get hotter during the summer and colder during the winter. Your HVAC system will have to work harder to maintain the temperature in the conditioned spaces of your home, which is just throwing money away. Conducting a thorough inspection of your attic is a top priority to ensure the insulation is sufficient, undamaged, and properly installed.

Check for Pests and Rodents

Every homeowner should ensure that their aren’t pests or rodents in the attic. Not only do those unwelcome residents bring a variety of diseases that can impact the health of those living in your home, but they can also cause extensive damage that leads to costly repairs down the line.

During a professional attic inspection, the inspector will check your attic for any signs of rodents. Common signs of a rodent problem include damaged insulation or stored materials, smells, and droppings. Catching a rodent problem in your attic early on is a great reason to schedule annual attic inspections and will surely save you money down the road on expensive repairs.

After the Inspection

Ok, so you had your inspection. Now what? 

The inspector will go over the results of the inspection with you and specifically note any problems they may have found. Common problems found during attic inspections include:

  • Damaged, blocked, or poorly sealed vents
  • Evidence of rodents in your attic space
  • Damaged, insufficient, or improperly installed insulation
  • Damaged or leaking air ducts

If the inspector does find any of those problems, they’ll outline specific steps you can take to address them. For example, suppose an inspector finds evidence of rodents in your attic area. In that case, they will help you determine what types of rodents they see and make a recommendation that you have the rodents removed and your attic rodent proofed.

Rest assured that if you have your attic inspected by our team at Attic Construction, we will provide you with clear guidance for what was found and what the best options are. With that knowledge, you can decide about the best course of action for your home.

Closing Thoughts

Attic inspections will typically ensure adequate ventilation in the attic space and that any existing vents aren’t obstructed and sealed against rodents. Inspections will also look for any damage caused by water penetration from the roof or plumbing systems, search for any signs of rodents, and ensure that your insulation is sufficient and properly installed.

If you’re looking for “attic cleaning near me” or an annual inspection, contact us at Attic Construction today. With extensive experience inspecting and working in attics in the Southern California area, we’ll help you find any problems in your attic space and provide clear guidance on how you can address those issues. To learn more, contact us today!

Sources

  1. “Inspecting the Attic, Insulation, Ventilation & Interior” https://www.nachi.org/documents2012/Inspecting_the_Attic_Insulation_Ventilation_and_Interior-revd-Oct-2012.pdf
  2. “About Attic Ventilation” https://www.energystar.gov/campaign/seal_insulate/do_it_yourself_guide/about_attic_ventilation#:~:text=Rafter%20vents%20should%20be%20placed,edge%20of%20the%20attic%20floor
  3. “What to Expect During an Attic Inspection” https://www.angieslist.com/articles/what-expect-during-attic-inspection.htm#:~:text=When%20cooler%20weather%20arrives%2C%20many,like%20water%20damage%20or%20cracks

Why You Need Attic Cleaning Services in Orange County

Written by Kevin on . Posted in Attic Cleanup. No Comments on Why You Need Attic Cleaning Services in Orange County

Most homeowners rarely go into their attic. If they do, it’s usually to store seasonal or rarely used items. While it is understandable to pay little attention to your attic, neglecting it can significantly impact your home. Attics play an essential role in how our homes regulate temperature and moisture, and the quality of air in your attic will have a significant impact on air quality throughout your home.

Cleaning up your attic space so that it is clean, dry, and free of debris, rodents, and mold is a great way to boost your home’s efficiency and improve your indoor air quality. Attic cleaning services help homeowners achieve the benefits of a clean attic safely and cost-effectively.

What are Attic Cleaning Services?

Attics should always be kept dry, clean, and free of debris or pests. Attic cleaning services return neglected or unkempt attics to that baseline, ideal condition.

Generally speaking, any professional attic cleaning will begin with an inspection that assesses the attic space condition. The inspector will identify common problems, such as a rodent infestation, water damage, or old and damaged insulation, and then describe the specific services they’ll render to return the attic space to good condition. During a professional attic cleaning, the company you work with may:

  • Help remove any junk you don’t want to be stored in your attic or no longer need.
  • Remove any dust and debris that has accumulated in a crawl space.
  • Address any water damage or mold that may have occurred.
  • Remediate a rodent infestation.
  • Address any mold growth or water damage.
  • Remove any contaminated or old insulation.
  • Replace insulation if any removal took place.

Attic cleaning services have several moving parts, and the specific steps taken in your attic space will depend on the current condition of your attic. The best way to understand what cleanup services your attic will require is to schedule an inspection. No need to search for “insulation removal near me”, just navigate our main menu to find the nearest location near you! Here at Attic Construction, we have decades of experience offering attic cleaning services in Orange County, so we can tell you precisely what it will take to return your attic to excellent condition!

The Importance of Attic Cleaning

Attics must be kept clean and dry, but why is that the case? 

  • Attics Affect the Air Quality Throughout Your Home

The air in your attic affects the air throughout your home. More specifically, any contaminants in your attic can circulate throughout your home. This isn’t a problem if your attic is clean and dry, but it can be a huge problem if there is a rodent infestation, mold, or other environmental contaminants such as dust are allowed to gather and settle.

  • Attic Insulation is Key for Home Efficiency

The insulation in your home creates barriers between the outside air and your home’s conditioned internal spaces. Insulation helps resist the transfer of heat between one space and another. Damaged, insufficient, improperly installed, or neglected attic insulation isn’t an effective insulator. Regular attic cleaning will ensure your insulation remains in optimal condition.

Top Signs You Might Need An Attic Cleanup

Homeowners should regularly have their attic professionally inspected to ensure their attic insulation remains in optimal health. If you haven’t had your attic inspected in a while, here are a few of the top signs you might need to schedule an inspection:

  • Temperature Fluctuations – If you find that your home becomes very hot during Southern California summers, or very cold during the winter, it may be compromised attic insulation. Effective insulation should reduce the temperature fluctuations in the conditioned space of your home. If that’s not happening, it may be a sign of a problem!
  • Unpleasant Smells or Foul Odor, Scratching Sounds – Unpleasant smells and the sound of a scurrying critter or pest in your ceiling at night are a sure sign that you need to have your attic checked. Attic insulation makes great nesting material for rodents, and an unprotected attic space is a great refuge from predators. Don’t let a rodent infestation go unaddressed, as the rodent feces, urine, and decaying bodies can negatively impact the air quality throughout your home.
  • Higher Energy Bills – Higher energy bills are a sign that your home is less efficient than it used to be. Your attic insulation has a big impact on your home’s efficiency, so if you notice your utility bills climbing, be sure to schedule an inspection of your attic to see if a cleanup can help!.
  • Insulation That Appears Old or Moldy – Faded and tattered attic insulation is probably in need of an adequate updating. The same is true if there’s any visible damage, such as mold growth from moisture. Any sign of moisture should be immediately addressed, as mold can impact your home’s air quality, and wet insulation isn’t effective insulation.

Leave it to the Professionals

If your attic is musty, overcrowded, or has been neglected for years, it may be tempting to try to clean it yourself.  We highly recommend that you use professionals for any attic cleanup project. Neglected attic spaces can harbor any number of pitfalls, from tricky footing that can lead to a fall to removing debris or old insulation contaminated with rodent feces and urine.

An attic cleaning service should be handled with the proper precautions and equipment, and any debris or contaminants must be disposed of. In light of that, for any attic cleaning in Orange County, be sure to leave it to the professionals! 

Closing Thoughts

If you’re looking for the best attic cleanup in the Orange County area, our team at Attic Construction has got you covered! We’ve been doing attic cleanup in the Orange County area for decades, and understand how important a well-maintained attic space is.

If you’ve noticed your utility bills creeping higher, your rooms becoming warmer or colder, or have heard or smelled any signs of a rodent problem, take the time to schedule a professional inspection! We also provide Orange County insulation installation services alongside our attic cleaning services! Our staff will be able to let you know exactly what’s needed to return your attic to peak health. To learn more, contact Attic Construction today!

Sources:

  1. “Understanding Attic Venting”, https://www.buildingscience.com/documents/digests/bsd-102-understanding-attic-ventilation
  2. “Measurement of Attic Temperatures and Cooling Energy Use in Vented and Sealed Attics in Las Vegas, Nevada”, https://www.buildingscience.com/documents/reports/rr-9701-measurement-of-attic-temperatures-and-cooling-energy-use-in-vented-and-sealed-attics-in-las-vegas-nevada/view
  3. “Keeping The Heat In – Chapter 5: Roofs and attics”, https://www.nrcan.gc.ca/energy-efficiency/energy-efficiency-homes/how-can-i-make-my-home-more-ener/keeping-heat/keeping-heat-chapter-5-roofs-and-attics/15637

How to Find the Best Attic Insulation Removal in Orange County

Written by Kevin on . Posted in Attic Insulation, Insulation removal. No Comments on How to Find the Best Attic Insulation Removal in Orange County

Attic insulation can be a big task. Breaking it down into something manageable requires the right tools for the job and experience cleaning up attic spaces. Rather than trying to do it yourself, leaving your attic insulation removal to the professionals is usually a good idea.

To find the best attic insulation removal in the Orange County area, you don’t need to look any further than our professional team at Attic Construction. We’ve got the experience and know-how to get your attic looking as good as new.

Let’s explore what you need to look for in an excellent attic insulation removal service, and why using a professional for insulation removal is a good idea.

Why Have Your Insulation Professionally Removed?

There are lots of projects that you can do yourself around your home, but removing your attic insulation shouldn’t be one of them. Though it may seem fairly straightforward, there are quite a few reasons why you should have a professional removal service to take care of your musty attic.

#1 Safety

Though they may not seem like it, attics can be quite dangerous, particularly if they are neglected for some time. Attics are cramped and difficult to navigate even under great circumstances. Falls are always a risk, which is why proper protective equipment must be used at all times.

Contaminants in the attic space also pose a health risk. If a rodent infestation or mold growth has occurred, disturbing your insulation can release dried contaminants into the air that pose a threat to the health of yourself and everyone in your home. Proper attic removal techniques minimize the risk of disturbing or spreading potentially harmful contaminants.

#2 Disposal

Aside from the health risks that removing your existing insulation yourself may pose, there’s also the disposal aspect of insulation removal. Insulation can’t simply be thrown away, but rather must be disposed of properly. Professional attic insulation removal services understand the proper disposal techniques for each different type of insulation.

#3 Ease

Removing your old attic insulation can be a pain! Not only can it be dangerous, but it’s hot, cramped work that requires absolute focus at all times. Utilizing professional attic insulation removal in Orange County, ca will ensure you never have to break a sweat to get the benefits of new attic insulation!

#4 The Right Tools

Having the right tools for the job is essential if you’re going to remove your old insulation. For blown-in insulation, you’ll need to use a specialized vacuum that can remove the old insulation and any contaminants it might contain. For fiberglass batt insulation, specialized bags are necessary to manage the old, dirty insulation.

Starting the removal process without the right tools puts yourself and other people in your household at risk. One of the best reasons to use a professional service is because they have the tools and experience necessary to efficiently get the job done. 

What to Look for in a Removal Service

Here we’ll outline some of the critical aspects of the removal process and touch on some of the traits you should look for in a company you hire to remove your attic insulation. 

Experience

Experience during the attic removal process can be a huge benefit, while a lack of experience can result in huge problems. Attic insulation removal can be difficult, and a lack of expertise compounds that difficulty. Attics are tight to move around in, and falls are not uncommon if workers aren’t careful. 

Working with an experienced attic insulation removal team will ensure that your removal and attic cleaning process is done in a safe, efficient, and effective manner. The key is safety, and our team at Attic Construction takes every precaution to ensure a safe work area for employees. But we also prioritize customer safety, which is why we strictly monitor the removal process to ensure contaminants which may be in your insulation do not spread throughout the home.

Experience also translates to efficiency. An experienced, professional removal service will get the job done faster. That’s important because your attic insulation is crucial for your home’s energy efficiency. The longer your home goes without attic insulation, the higher your utility bills will creep.

Equipment

Insulation removal orange county is complicated by the insulation itself and its condition. Insulation is often removed as a result of damage, whether in the form of water damage and mold growth, or an active rodent infestation. Removing either of these requires the use of safety equipment to minimize exposure to contaminants.

Proper disposal techniques must also be used to ensure contaminants in mold spore or rodent feces and urine don’t spread through the air during removal. To this end, fiberglass batt insulation is typically stored in a bag, while blown-in insulation is removed using a special vacuum.

Be sure to work with a professional removal company that understands the importance of personal protective equipment (PPE). At the same time, the company you work with should prioritize the safety of everyone living in your home. 

Clean-Up vs. Removal

While some companies might offer to remove your damaged or old insulation, they may not provide attic decontamination and cleanup service. While removing any old or contaminated insulation is a great start, a neglected attic may need remediation efforts before new insulation can be placed. A neglected attic is particularly concerning in situations where a rodent infestation has occurred. A failure to properly decontaminate your attic space may allow contaminants to continue circulating throughout your home, potentially impacting the air quality in your home for years to come.

When searching for an attic and mold removal service, be sure to seek out a company that offers decontamination and cleanup services as well. Properly decontaminating your attic space after any insulation removal can help ensure that your new insulation remains in good condition, while also protecting against contaminants circulating throughout your home.

Signs Your Attic Insulation May Be Bad

How do you know when to have your insulation replaced? Before you remove any insulation, be sure to consult with a professional like Attic Construction. A comprehensive inspection is the best way to tell if your attic insulation needs to be replaced.

Here are a few other signs that it might be time to schedule an attic insulation inspection:

#1 Rising Utility Bills

Rising utility bills can be a sure sign of damaged attic insulation. That’s because your attic insulation is an important regulator of the temperature in the conditioned spaces of your home. With poor attic insulation, your air-conditioner will need to work extra hard to keep your home cool on hot days, and your heating system will have to work overtime to keep your home warm on cold days. Schedule an attic insulation inspection to take back your home’s energy efficiency!

#2 Scratching Sounds or Bad Odors

Scratching sounds in your ceiling can be signs of a rodent infestation. Rodents love attics because they are away from predators, and attic insulation makes great nesting material. Two signs of a rodent infestation in your attic are scratching sounds in your walls or ceiling, or bad odors which typically emanate from feces and urine-soaked nesting materials. 

#3 Temperature Fluctuations

If your home seems like it’s getting colder on cold nights, or hotter on hot days, your attic insulation may be the culprit. Your insulation helps maintain your home’s temperature by resisting heat transfer from the conditioned areas of your home to the unconditioned outside air. Attic insulation in poor health will compromise the effectiveness of that thermal barrier, resulting in greater temperature swings throughout the day in the conditioned spaces of your home.

#4 Dirty or Damaged Insulation

A glance at your current insulation can go a long way towards telling you if it’s time to have a professional look at it. Attic insulation that is dirty, faded, or has any sign of mold or pest damage is a clear sign that it’s time for an inspection. Old, dirty, or damaged insulation isn’t as effective of a thermal barrier, so you should address damaged or old insulation as soon as you notice it.

Closing Thoughts

Finding an excellent attic insulation removal service in Orange County doesn’t have to be difficult, but it is important that you use a professional to clean out your old insulation. Safety is critical during the insulation removal process, both for the individuals removing the old insulation and all of the household members. 

If your utility bills are suddenly rising, or you’ve begun to suspect a rodent problem in your attic, don’t wait to address it. Compromised attic insulation will negatively impact the air quality and energy efficiency of your home.

Professionals like our team at Attic Construction have the experience and equipment necessary to make removing your old insulation a breeze! We even provide Orange County insulation installation and attic cleaning services alongside our removal service to make it one easy job for you! Aren’t sure whether you need your old insulation removed? An attic inspection is a great place to start. Contact us today to schedule your next attic inspection!

We also offer San Diego & Phoenix insulation removal, installation & rodent proofing, contact us today!

Sources: 

  1. “Understanding Attic Venting”, https://www.buildingscience.com/documents/digests/bsd-102-understanding-attic-ventilation
  2. “Measurement of Attic Temperatures and Cooling Energy Use in Vented and Sealed Attics in Las Vegas, Nevada”,https://www.buildingscience.com/documents/reports/rr-9701-measurement-of-attic-temperatures-and-cooling-energy-use-in-vented-and-sealed-attics-in-las-vegas-nevada/view
  3. “Keeping The Heat In – Chapter 5: Roofs and attics”, https://www.nrcan.gc.ca/energy-efficiency/energy-efficiency-homes/how-can-i-make-my-home-more-ener/keeping-heat/keeping-heat-chapter-5-roofs-and-attics/15637

 

5 Signs You Need Rodent Proofing in Orange County

Written by Kevin on . Posted in Rodent Cleanup. No Comments on 5 Signs You Need Rodent Proofing in Orange County

Rodent infestations spell big problems for homeowners, which is why you should consider proactively addressing any potential rodent infestation before it becomes established. Not only can rodents nest in your insulation, which will potentially impact the energy efficiency of your home, but a rodent infestation may also lead to poor air quality throughout your entire home. 

Understanding the signs that you need to rodent proof your home can help you recognize a rodent infestation early before extensive damage is caused. Rodents won’t go away on their own, so remediating an existing rodent infestation and rodent proofing your home should be a top priority if an infestation is suspected. 

Top Signs of a Rodent Problem

Aren’t sure if you need orange county, ca rodent proofing? Here are our top signs that you should call the professionals at Attic Construction:

#1. Sounds

If you hear movement in your walls or attic space, it can be a pretty good sign that you might have a rodent problem. Hearing rodents moving in your walls or attic space is usually an early sign of a rodent infestation. You may hear scurrying or scratching as they move through your walls and attic building a nest and foraging for food. Often these sounds are more obvious at night when the house is quiet and background noise is minimal. If you do find yourself hearing movement in your walls or attic space, don’t hesitate to have an inspection completed. Catching a rodent infestation early will help you minimize damage and reduce the cost of repairs.

#2. Smells

As rodents begin to become established in your attic you may begin to smell their presence. Rodent nests can become saturated with urine, feces, and even the bodies of rodents that have died. Though the smell of a rodent infestation may be very unpleasant, it can also be a key indicator that there’s a problem. The smell of a rodent infestation may be more obvious in hot weather as your attic spaces heat up, but it will probably be noticeable even during the cooler winter months. 

#3. Pets

Pets are a great early warning system for a rodent infestation. If you have a cat or dog who is paying very close attention to your walls or ceiling, the chances are high that they can hear or smell something that you can’t. Animals that detect rodents in your walls may appear agitated, aggressive, or concerned. Be mindful of these signs, but also don’t make the mistake of thinking your pet can deal with a rodent infestation on their own. Rodents have the potential to carry communicable diseases, so be sure to keep your pets safely in your home and let the professionals at Attic Construction deal with your rodent issue!

#4. Droppings

Rodents may be subtle but the presence of rodent droppings is a sure sign that it’s time to contact a professional to look at the issue. Rodent droppings are not only a sign that you may be dealing with an infestation. Those droppings can carry diseases, so keep pets away from them and wear protective equipment when disposing of the droppings.

#5. Damaged Boxes or Insulation

Many people that use their attic for storage may be surprised when they find damage to their boxes. Chewed or torn up boxes are a common sign of a rodent infestation because rodents love to use the cardboard for nesting material. The same is true of insulation. If your attic insulation is piled up, damaged, or disturbed, it may be a sign of a rodent infestation. If you see any of these odd signs in your attic space, be sure to schedule an inspection as soon as possible. 

#6. Rising Utility Costs

It might surprise you to hear that a sign you have a rodent problem is your utility bills going up. Though this isn’t usually one of the earliest signs of a rodent infestation, a rodent problem in your attic space may impact the effectiveness of your attic insulation. Attic insulation is an ideal nesting material for rodents. As it becomes saturated in rodent feces and urine, it becomes less effective at resisting the transfer of heat. The result is a home that is less efficient than it was before. Though the early signs of insulation damage on your utility bills may be subtle, it will increase over time as more insulation becomes compromised. 

Address the Issue Early

Dealing with a rodent infestation can be a pain, but it’s made worse if you don’t deal with it as soon as you notice a problem. Rodents typically won’t go away on their own, especially once a nest becomes established in your attic. Attics make an ideal location for rodents because they are warm, dry, safe from predators, and they have lots of nesting material available. 

Here are the top reasons why you should consider addressing a rodent issue early:

Unhealthy Air

Rodent infestations lead to poor air quality throughout your home, not just in your attic space. Something that many people don’t realize is the role that attics and crawl spaces play in circulating air throughout your home. Because of this critical role, poor air quality in either space will affect the air throughout your home. 

This is particularly problematic when the issue is a rodent infestation because rodent feces can contain potentially harmful diseases. If the feces dry and is disturbed, it can be spread through the air. This is also a reason why any materials contaminated with rodent feces or urine should only be cleaned up with proper protective equipment in place.

Rodent droppings can lead to a number of diseases, including:

  • Toxoplasmosis
  • Salmonella
  • Murine Typhus and Leptospirosis
  • Hantavirus Pulmonary Syndrome
  • Meningitis
  • Histoplasmosis
  • Encephalitis.

Because of this, always leave the cleanup to the professionals at Attic Construction!

Compromised Insulation

The insulation in your attic is critical for maintaining the energy efficiency of your home. Attic insulation helps separate the conditioned spaces of your home from the unconditioned parts of your home. In doing so, it helps minimize the transfer of heat between conditioned and unconditioned spaces. In a properly insulated home, this translates to great energy efficiency and temperature stability. Properly insulated homes will stay cooler on hot days, and warmer on cold days because the insulation is preventing heat from being transferred.

Rodents love attic insulation because it makes a great nesting material. But, as insulation is disturbed, damaged, or compromised it becomes less effective at reducing the transfer of heat. The result is a home that is less energy efficient than it was before. So if you notice certain rooms that are warmer or colder than before, rising utility costs, or strong temperature fluctuations throughout the day in the conditioned spaces of your home, be sure to have your attic insulation inspected for damage.

Costly Repairs

Remediating a rodent infestation is less expensive if it is addressed early. If a rodent infestation is allowed to become established, the damage caused by the rodents will be higher. Rodent infestations can lead to all kinds of problems, including:

  • Damaged insulation
  • Chewed wiring
  • Urine soaked drywall, wood, or other building materials.

To clean up a rodent infestation you can’t simply soak everything in bleach. Once compromised some building materials must be replaced. This is often the case with drywall under nesting material or insulation that has been used as nesting material. 

In order to avoid costly and extensive repairs, be sure to be proactive if you suspect a rodent problem. Rodent infestations won’t go away on their own, so if you have any of the signs of rodents that we’ve described above don’t hesitate to contact Attic Construction for an inspection. Dealing with your rodent problem early will save you money down the road!

Why Rodent Proof?

If you have a rodent infestation two things must be completed to effectively deal with the problem. The first is that the route the rodents are using to get into your home needs to be closed up, which is referred to as rodent proofing. The second task is to remediate any damage caused by the existing rodent infestation.

Rodent proofing is critical if you want to permanently deal with a rodent problem. While removing nesting materials and clearing out contaminants from an existing rodent infestation can help improve the quality of the air in your home, if you don’t rodent proof then you’ll just have another infestation to deal with a short time later. The good news is that the experts at Attic Construction can help you with your rodent proofing in orange county!

Rodents are persistent and tenacious pests, which is why rodent proofing in orange county is so crucial. Effectively rodent proofing a home is no easy task, but it can be done with the right equipment and experience.  Even the smallest gap can be exploited by rodents and lead to a full-blown infestation, so it’s important that any rodent proofing is comprehensive. Our teams at Attic Construction have decades of experience rodent proofing homes in the Orange County area, so we know exactly what it takes to effectively rodent proof an attic space.

Closing Thoughts

Be mindful of the key signs that you may need rodent proofing in your home that we’ve outlined above. Rodent proofing is a necessary component of dealing with any rodent infestation, otherwise, you’re setting yourself up for repeated repairs and headaches.

If you suspect a rodent infestation in your attic, walls, or crawl spaces, don’t hesitate to call us to find the nearest Attic Construction location near you. No need to search “search for “insulation removal near me”! Rodent infestations won’t go away on their own, and they can lead to costly repairs and poor air quality. We also provide Orange County insulation installation and removal services to replace old rodent damaged insulation!

To learn about our rodent proofing services in the Orange County area, please contact us today.

Sources: 

  1. “Understanding Attic Venting”, https://www.buildingscience.com/documents/digests/bsd-102-understanding-attic-ventilation
  2. “Measurement of Attic Temperatures and Cooling Energy Use in Vented and Sealed Attics in Las Vegas, Nevada”, https://www.buildingscience.com/documents/reports/rr-9701-measurement-of-attic-temperatures-and-cooling-energy-use-in-vented-and-sealed-attics-in-las-vegas-nevada/view
  3. “Keeping The Heat In – Chapter 5: Roofs and attics”, https://www.nrcan.gc.ca/energy-efficiency/energy-efficiency-homes/how-can-i-make-my-home-more-ener/keeping-heat/keeping-heat-chapter-5-roofs-and-attics/15637

 

How to Get Rid of Mold in Your Crawl Space

Written by Kevin on . Posted in Crawl Space Cleanup. No Comments on How to Get Rid of Mold in Your Crawl Space

If you’ve got mold in your crawl space, you aren’t alone! A mold issue in crawl spaces is one of the most common problems in homes with that foundation type. 

What you may not realize is that mold in your crawl space affects the air quality throughout your home. At the same time, mold is an indication that water is present and has been for some time, so addressing your mold issues early will help you avoid costly repairs due to water damage later on.

What is a Crawl Space?

Crawl spaces are a type of foundation where the ground floor of a home is raised 1-3 feet off of the ground. This foundation type is used in areas where the freeze-thaw cycle poses risks to other foundation types such as slab-on-grade or basements, or where significant moisture may affect your foundation over time. Crawl spaces may also be used in locations with sandy soil, which is common in the coastal areas of the United States.

Why Does Mold Form in Crawl Spaces?

Before we outline how to get rid of mold in crawl space, it’s helpful to understand why mold forms in this area in the first place. 

The most important thing to understand is that mold can’t form without water. If mold is present, that means water is also present. For mold to form on common building materials takes time, which means that any mold in your crawl space is preceded by a time where the wood or insulation in that area is saturated and kept wet. This can occur from a consistently high humidity level where moisture buildup is frequent in the air. 

Mold is specifically a problem in vented crawl spaces. In a vented crawl space, small vents are placed along the perimeter of the crawl space to facilitate passive air circulation with the outside. During cooler months this works adequately, but during warmer months it creates a moisture problem. 

In warmer months, the ground and air in a crawl space are a few degrees cooler than the outside air. As that warmer outside air enters the crawl space it begins to cool. Once that warm air hits the dew point it will form condensation. In most vented crawl spaces this condensation will form on the underside of the subfloor, on the floor joists and insulation placed there. As the moisture along the floor joists and insulation persists, it will begin to form mold. 

Why is Mold in Your Crawl Space Bad?

No one wants mold in their home, but having mold in crawl space can be especially bad. The simple reason for this is because the air quality in your crawl space impacts the air quality throughout your home. As the air in your crawl space rises it passes up into the conditioned portion of your home where it is circulated. So, while you might only have mold in one part of your crawl space, that mold is affecting the air quality throughout your home.

Mold in your crawl space is also bad because it is an indication that there is water present. The water that causes mold to form in your crawl space will seep upward into your subfloor and insulation. Your insulation will begin to perform poorly, impacting the energy efficiency of your home. At the same time, that moisture build up in your subfloor may cause your flooring to buckle or warp, leading to costly repairs when the time comes to replace your crawl space insulation.

How to Address a Moldy Crawl Space

Addressing a mold issue in your crawl space can be difficult, but it isn’t impossible. Here’s a broad breakdown of the process:

  • Identify whether any mold is present, where it is, and the extent of the water damage.
  • Remove any existing insulation.
  • Remediate any mold and water damage.
  • Rebuild the subfloor and replace flooring if necessary.
  • Install new insulation and implement proper moisture mitigation strategies (such as a vapor barrier or converting a vented crawl space to an unvented crawl space).

Unfortunately, there’s no one-size-fits-all crawl space mold remover. DIY solutions to crawl space mold tend to ignore the most important aspect: how that mold formed in the first place. Some DIY solutions may only be able to get rid of some visible mold as well. However, we understand that mold is an issue you don’t want to keep dealing with. That is why we get to the root of your moisture problem to know exactly where the mold is coming from and how to deal with it. 

Addressing mold in your crawl space requires an understanding of how moisture forms in crawl spaces and what techniques can be used to eliminate the impact of that moisture. Simply removing your old insulation and replacing it will only reset the clock and will result in significant repairs down the road if the root cause of moisture in your crawl space isn’t addressed.

Because of this, we strongly recommend using the services of professionals familiar with crawl spaces. Our team at Attic Construction has decades of experience working with crawl spaces, so we understand exactly what it takes to return your crawl space to peak health.

Additionally, before continuing with your insulation process, it may be essential to use a crawl space cleaning service. Especially if you are dealing with a mold problem, it is important to undergo a crawl space mold removal process before moving forward. This can help to prevent air quality issues in your home or repairs down the road. 

Closing Thoughts

Mold in your crawl space is a serious issue that can affect the air quality throughout your home. A moldy crawl space is also a wet crawl space, which means that the energy efficiency and durability of your home will be degraded as well. Not only does it lead to a loss in energy efficiency, but a mildew or musty odor can also form in addition to your decreased air quality and nobody wants that!

If you have mold in your crawl space, leave it to the professionals at Attic Construction! We start every project with a professional inspection, so you’ll know exactly what the current state of your crawl space is and what it will take to address any issues we find. If you have mold in your crawl space, don’t wait to address it, as that can lead to costly repairs down the road and impact your health in the meantime. Let us help you with your crawl space mold removal so you don’t have to!

Curious about our crawl space services or ready to schedule an inspection? Contact Attic Construction today!

Sources:

  1. “Guide to Closing and Conditioning Ventilated Crawlspaces” https://www.nrel.gov/docs/fy13osti/54859.pdf
  2. “Crawlspace Insulation” https://www.buildingscience.com/documents/information-sheets/crawlspace-insulation
  3. “Crawlspaces – Either In or Out”  https://www.buildingscience.com/documents/building-science-insights/bsi-115-crawlspaces-either-or-out

 

Why You Need Crawl Space Insulation

Written by Kevin on . Posted in Insulation. No Comments on Why You Need Crawl Space Insulation

Properly installed crawl space insulation is a crucial component of the building envelope. Crawl space insulation is used to separate the conditioned and unconditioned parts of your home. 

Properly installed crawl space insulation can reduce fluctuations in temperature in your home, improve energy efficiency, and result in better air quality. Unfortunately, poorly maintained or improperly installed crawl space insulation can impact the durability, indoor air quality, and energy efficiency of your home.

What is a Crawl Space?

A crawl space is a type of foundation where the first floor of a home is raised about 1-3 feet off of the ground. The crawl space floor may simply be dirt, or it may be covered in gravel or plastic sheeting to serve as a vapor barrier. The purpose of a crawl space vapor barrier is to decrease vapor and moisture getting into the area. That way, your home is better protected from moisture and mold damage. What differentiates it from a crawl space encapsulation is that a crawl space encapsulation completely seals the entire crawl space while the vapor barrier does not.

Crawl spaces are used in areas of the country where soil conditions or moisture prevent other common foundation types, such as slab-on-grade or a basement, from being used. In colder regions, the freeze-thaw cycle can be a critical factor determining which type of foundation you choose. 

Common Crawl Space Problems

Here are some of the most common crawl space issues homeowners face.

  • Ground moisture, water from landscaping, and drainage can seep into your crawl space. Thankfully, this can be remedied by installing a crawl space vapor barrier.
  • Excessive rainfall can cause flooding and standing water. The water typically recedes on its own; however, if you see white marks on the foundation wall, this is a tell-tale sign of recurring standing water in your crawl space.
  • Crawl space insulation problems like falling insulation indicate that your insulation is no longer doing what it should. What’s worse is it acts like a wick, bringing moisture into the sub-flooring. If this happens, you’ll need a professional insulation removal service to remove and repair any damaged insulation.
  • Dark and wet spaces are a breeding ground for mold and mildew. Mold in your crawl space does not only cause a musty odor but can also cause health issues. 
  • The biggest enemy is moisture which creates a whole set of issues when it seeps into the wood and the sub-flooring, causing the wood to warp or curve. You can sort this issue by crawl space waterproofing.
  • Pests in the crawl space. Bugs and rodents in attic can cause a whole host of issues, including damaged foundations, holes, fallen and damaged insulation, etc. It’s critical to find and seal off rodent entry points for pest control. 

Why is Crawl Space Insulation Important?

Crawl space insulation is used as a way to maintain your building envelope when your ground floor is elevated off of the ground. The insulation in your crawl space functions to reduce temperature fluctuations in the conditioned space of your home.

Properly installed and maintained crawl space insulation will:

  • Improve the energy efficiency of your home.
  • Keep your home cooler on hot days and warmer on cold days.
  • Improve the air quality of your home.

How is Crawl Space Insulation Installed?

There are different ways to set up your crawl space, and they can have a big impact on the air quality and energy efficiency of your home. These spaces are usually either a ventilated crawl space or unvented. If you’re installing insulation in a crawl space, the type of crawl space you have will largely dictate where you install your insulation. This will also help you determine the type of insulation you want such as fiberglass insulation or foam. It’s important to understand the difference between a ventilated crawl space and an unvented crawl space before making your next step in the insulation process.

Vented Crawl Space

If your home has a crawl space, it’s most likely vented. Vented crawl spaces have air vents that passively exchange air with the outside. In a vented crawl space, the air in the crawl space is unconditioned. Typically, insulation is installed between the floor joists underneath the subfloor. This insulation constitutes the lower perimeter of the building envelope. Put another way, all of the air above the crawl space insulation is conditioned.

The core issue with vented crawl spaces is that they are often not designed with sufficient moisture protections or a moisture barrier in place. During warmer months, warm air enters the crawl space and cools. As it cools it condenses and forms moisture. If a vapor barrier isn’t used, that moisture condenses on the underside of the subfloor and insulation. If left unaddressed that moisture will form mold on the wet insulation while also leeching deeper into the subfloor, eventually affecting multiple or just one floor joist, your crawl space wall, or the crawl space floor. 

Unvented Crawl Space

If you’re curious about how to insulate a crawl space, the method recommended by most engineers is to treat your crawl space like a mini-basement. This is known as an unvented crawl space. In an unvented crawl space, a moisture barrier is installed along the ground. Some flooring may be installed over that. The walls of the crawl space are insulated, while the subfloor is not. This type of insulation method extends the building envelope downward to include the crawl space in the conditioned space of the home.

Unvented crawl spaces have these key advantages over vented crawl spaces:

  • Better moisture control.
  • Better durability over time.
  • Higher air quality throughout the home.
  • Increase energy efficiency.
  • Less fluctuation in temperature.

Installing New Insulation? Call the Professionals!

If you’ve ignored your crawl space wall insulation for a while, you should strongly consider having a professional inspection done by an insulation contractor. If you’re planning on installing new crawl space insulation, definitely have it done by professionals as well to ensure proper insulation measures are taken.

If the insulation in your crawl space isn’t installed with appropriate moisture mitigation measures in place, you’ll end up having lots of problems down the road. When insulating a vented crawl space you need to have a way to minimize the formation of moisture on the subfloor. Whether this includes a moisture barrier or fiberglass insulation, this will be an important part of a proper insulation process. Additionally, installing insulation in crawl space must be done according to local building codes, which usually includes the use of a vapor barrier to eliminate moisture problems.

Professional crawl space insulation installation will ensure that no air gaps exist that will allow moisture from the crawl space to move upward. This will protect the durability of your home, and result in improved air quality and increased energy efficiency.

Additionally, you may need a crawl space cleaning service done before moving forward with the insulation process. This can help remove mold, wet insulation, or old fiberglass insulation to be sure you have a fresh surface to start new!

Closing Thoughts

If your home currently has a crawl space, consider having it professionally inspected by the crawl space solutions experts at Attic Construction! While it might be easy to ignore your crawl space, ineffective or poorly installed insulation in a crawl space can impact the energy efficiency, durability, and indoor air quality of your home. 

To learn more about crawl space wall insulation, crawl space repair, or to get an expert opinion on the condition of your crawl space insulation, contact us today!

 

Sources:

  1. “Guide to Closing and Conditioning Ventilated Crawlspaces” https://www.nrel.gov/docs/fy13osti/54859.pdf
  2. “Crawlspace Insulation” https://www.buildingscience.com/documents/information-sheets/crawlspace-insulation
  3. “Crawlspaces – Either in or Out” https://www.buildingscience.com/documents/building-science-insights/bsi-115-crawlspaces-either-or-out
  4. “Crawl Space Vapor Barriers and Encapsulation” Common Vented Crawl Space Problems https://www.hgtv.com/design/remodel/interior-remodel/crawl-space-vapor-barriers-and-encapsulation
  5. Common Vented Crawl Space Problems https://trianglecrawlspacesolutions.com/crawl-space-problems

Breaking Down Crawl Space Insulation Cost

Written by Kevin on . Posted in Insulation. No Comments on Breaking Down Crawl Space Insulation Cost

Nailing down crawl space insulation cost can be difficult. Many factors, including the square footage of insulation required, type of insulation you’ll be using, and whether you’ll be having it professionally installed will all impact the cost of your crawl space insulation. Additionally, you’ll need to have your crawl space cleaned out and any old insulation hauled away, which may also impact the final cost. Consider using a crawl space cleaning service to help you get rid of mold, old fiberglass insulation or foam and start with a new crawl space foundation! 

The best way to understand how much it will cost to insulate the crawl space in your home is to have a professional appraisal done. However, before your appraisal, it’s important to understand what factors affect the cost of crawl space insulation. While things like the size of your house will have a big impact on the final cost of your project, you should also be aware of other common issues like the presence of mold or water damage that can increase expenses. Understanding these issues can help you gain a better idea of the potential scope of your project before you dive in with an insulation contractor.

What is a Crawl Space?

A crawl space is a type of foundation used in many parts of the country when other foundation types, such as slab-on-grade or a basement, are either less desirable or cost-prohibitive. There are three types of crawl spaces; open, unvented, or a ventilated crawl space. It is important to know which type of crawl space you have before moving forward with the insulation process. Crawl spaces may be an advantageous foundation type when:

  • There is excessive moisture present, 
  • The soil is sandy which is common in coastal areas, 
  • Or when the freeze-thaw cycle poses a threat to other foundation types like slab-on-grade.

Crawl spaces create a gap between the ground and the first floor of a home. The ground in the crawl space may be covered with a vapor barrier, or may simply be dirt or gravel. Above the ground is a gap, usually between 1-3’, before the subfloor of the home.

A core advantage of a crawl space over other foundation types is that you’ll have easy access to core mechanical systems of your home. These include things like your HVAC ducting, electrical, plumbing and insulation, which typically would require extensive work to access in homes with other foundation types.

How Are Crawl Spaces Insulated?

There are different ways to set up a crawl space, and those design decisions can have a big impact on the air quality of your home as well as how well or poorly your home deals with moisture. At the center of these decisions are where to place a foam or fiberglass insulation and create a vapor barrier.

There are three broad categories of crawl spaces: vented, unvented, and open. Let’s take a look at each in greater detail.

  • Vented – Vented crawl spaces are the most common type seen in many parts of the country. These crawl spaces have vents that passively circulate air with the outside. In a vented crawl space, the insulation is typically installed at the subfloor, in between the floor joists. This leaves the crawl space itself uninsulated, and everything from the subfloor and above is in the conditioned space of your home.
  • Unvented – Unvented crawl spaces are less common but can have a number of advantages over vented crawl spaces. Unvented crawl spaces are best thought of as a mini-basement. In unvented crawl space, insulation is typically installed along the walls of the crawl space rather than at the subfloor, while the ground is covered in a moisture barrier and may have some type of flooring. The most important distinction is that an unvented crawl space is considered part of the conditioned space of your home, and no longer passively exchanges air with the outside.
  • Open – Open crawl spaces are completely open to the outside. Typically surrounded only by lattice fencing or wire mesh, open crawl spaces achieve significantly more air circulation with the outside than even vented crawl spaces. These types of crawl spaces are less common than vented, but they do eliminate some of the moisture issues that can arise with a vented crawl space.

Though vented crawl spaces are more common, research has shown that they tend to perform more poorly than unvented crawl spaces. This can lead to a need for crawl space repair in the future. However, the advantages of an unvented crawl space include:

  • Higher energy savings
  • Less fluctuation in temperature
  • Less moisture and mold
  • More durability
  • Better air quality

The key problem with traditionally vented crawl spaces is that they were often installed without much regard to how moisture could affect the house over time. In houses with traditionally vented crawl spaces, the temperature of the ground and air in the crawl space is a few degrees cooler than the outside. During summer months the warmer outside air enters the crawl space and begins to cool. As it cools the moisture in the air forms condensation. In most traditionally vented crawl spaces that moisture forms on the underside of the subfloor, on and below the insulation and floor joists.

Over time the condensation forming in your crawl space will lead to enormous issues. Water left on wood will begin to form mold, and wet insulation will begin to perform more poorly. Additionally, the water will wick upwards deeper into the subfloor, potentially damaging your flooring.

Recognizing and managing the moisture that comes with vented crawl spaces is essential. Too often homeowners ignore their crawl space, which allows moisture to build up, mold to form, and damage to their insulation, subfloor, and flooring to occur. Consider adding in a moisture barrier to your crawl space to prevent these issues from arising quickly.

Crawl Space Insulation Cost Break Down

Here are the top factors that will influence the cost of replacing your crawl space insulation. These include:

  • Square footage of your crawl space.
  • Type of insulation used.
  • Whether your crawl space is vented or unvented.
  • Removal of old insulation.
  • Mold, water damage, or pest damage cleanup and remediation.
  • Cost of a vapor barrier and installation.
  • Labor.

So how much does crawl space insulation cost? The best way to find out is to have an inspection done by an insulation contractor and get a quote. The costs will vary depending on the type of insulation used. Fiberglass batt insulation tends to be more common and cheaper, while foam insulation tends to be less common and more expensive.

If your crawl space was set up correctly and no moisture damage or mold growth is present, replacing your crawl space insulation can be a relatively low-cost method of improving the energy efficiency of your home. 

However, costs will be higher if water damage or mold growth needs to be repaired. One issue with water damage in crawl spaces is that it can lead to cascading repairs. As the water wicks upward it damages the subfloor and eventually will impact your flooring. Buckled or discolored flooring is very often the first sign of a problem for many homeowners that don’t have their crawl space cleaned and inspected regularly. A crawl space repair may add to the overall cost but is a necessary step before starting new. 

The best way to avoid those negative outcomes is to have your crawl space regularly inspected and cleaned. A professional crawl space inspection can quickly give you a good idea about the current state of your crawl space. If it’s been neglected, an inspection will give you a good idea about what needs to be addressed and what the potential cost of that project might be. 

The Importance of Professional Installation

Though there are many DIY projects around a home where it can be financially beneficial to do the labor yourself, you should strongly consider having your crawl space insulation professionally installed. Professional crawl space insulation installation cost tends to be worthwhile even if you are handy or inclined to do the work yourself. 

Here’s why:

  • Most crawl spaces weren’t originally designed with sufficient moisture protections in place. In order to protect the durability of your home and the health of everyone living in it, it’s critical to ensure moisture mitigation and management measures are put into place during the replacement process. This may include using a vapor barrier or even converting your vented crawl space into an unvented, conditioned crawl space. Understanding the best option for you will require professional consultation with experts that understand crawl spaces.
  • Professional installers know that any air gap in the vapor barrier will result in damage down the road. That’s why great care is taken to ensure that an intact vapor barrier is maintained to protect your insulation and subfloor for years to come. Consult with a professional to insulate crawl space walls and floors to ensure proper measures are taken.
  • Existing water damage or mold growth will need to be identified and remediated before progressing further. Not doing so will simply seal in the moisture, negatively impacting the air quality in your home and resulting in even larger repairs down the road.

Closing Thoughts

The best way to get an accurate idea of how much it will cost to replace your crawl space insulation is to have a professional inspection done. There are a number of factors that can impact the cost of a crawl space insulation project, including the size of the crawl space, the type of insulation used, and whether there is existing mold and water damage that needs to be addressed.

We highly recommend that you have an inspection of your crawl space done, and have your insulation replacement completed by professionals. Many crawl spaces were built with insufficient attention to moisture issues, which has resulted in huge problems for some homeowners over time. Avoiding those problems all over again means addressing them during the removal and attic insulation installation process.

Aren’t sure if your crawl space insulation needs to be replaced? Have an inspection done by our professional team at Attic Construction! A crawl space inspection is a great place to start and should be done on a regular basis by all homeowners. A quick inspection now can help you avoid costly repairs down the road. To schedule an inspection or get a quote for crawl space insulation replacement, contact us today!

Sources:

  1. “Guide to Closing and Conditioning Ventilated Crawlspaces” https://www.nrel.gov/docs/fy13osti/54859.pdf
  2. “How to Inspect and Correct a Vented Crawlspace” https://www.nachi.org/inspect-correct-vented-crawl space.htm
  3. “What is a Crawl Space?” https://www.realtor.com/advice/buy/what-is-a-crawl-space/
  4. “Crawlspace Insulation” https://www.buildingscience.com/documents/information-sheets/crawl space-insulation

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