Picture this: you’re opening up your first utility bill of the summer, cold lemonade in hand. You’re proud of yourself for keeping the air conditioner on a reasonable temperature, and you feel relaxed as the bill slides out of the envelope.  

But then you read the total—and it’s far more than you anticipated. 

Keeping your home cool is difficult during the warmer months with outdoor air reaching high temperatures. It can be even more difficult if your attic space is not properly ventilated and insulated. An attic fan is one popular method of attic ventilation. But, how does an attic fan work? And is an attic fan installation really the answer to your summer cooling issues? We’ll explain in this guide.

Pros and Cons to Using an Attic Fan

An attic fan is almost exactly what it sounds like: a fan installed in your attic to move warm air out of your home and add cooler air into it.  

How well do they work?

On one hand, attic fans can be very useful in locations that are cooler in the evening, such as Portland or Seattle. On the other hand, they don’t work as well in consistently warmer places like Arizona and California and are less efficient than other options.

Let’s dig in.

Pros of Attic Fans

There are a few reasons why an attic fan might be a step in the right direction when thinking about caring for your home and those in it:

• Attic fans use less energy than air-conditioners – Many homeowners use thermostat-controlled attic fans to ensure further efficiency of maintaining attic temperature. This means that when the attic hits a certain temperature, the attic fan will immediately start and keep working until the attic has dropped below the set temperature. As a result, you save money and use less energy.
• Attic fans can also keep moisture out of your home – Sometimes, cool A/C air and hot attic air can combine to form moisture in your attic space, creating an ideal environment for mold. Attic fans work by pushing hot air out to prevent a buildup of harmful mold.¹ Therefore, an attic fan can protect the wood in your roof and ceilings and improve its longevity.

Cons of Attic Fans

Energy savings and protection from mold seem like great perks. So, then what are the negatives of attic fans? In short, attic fans may not be as helpful as they seem:

• They need very specific circumstances to work effectively – Attic fans are not useful in all environments. If there is not cool enough air outside, then the attic fan will simply replace the hot air in your attic with more hot air. This could cause your attic fan to work overtime and ultimately would not keep your attic cool. 
• They do not work as well when used in conjunction with air conditioners – Why not? Energy Star explains that “if your attic has blocked soffit vents and is not well-sealed from the rest of the house, attic fans will suck cool conditioned air up out of the house and into the attic.”² Furthermore, keeping windows and doors closed (as you’ll want to when using A/C ) is not advisable with attic fans. 
• They can be expensive and inefficient – An attic fan is just one more expense on your electricity bill. Even if a fan does reduce your need for air conditioning, you may not see any savings. Additionally, they won’t work to cool your entire house, which may not provide any benefits during the warmer months when temperatures can reach the triple digits. Instead, attic fans only circulate air within the upper portion of the house. 

This means that an attic fan could end up costing you more money in the long run, especially if used in conjunction with an air conditioner.

Even more importantly, if your attic is not well-insulated and does not have proper ventilation, the attic fan yet again loses its energy efficiency. 

The good news? Proper insulation and ventilation can have the same positive impact as an attic fan, helping keep your attic cool, dry, and inhospitable to mold.

Keep Cool With Attic Construction

When thinking about all of this information, it is easy to get overwhelmed. How can you best protect your home from external heat and moisture? We’re here to help. 

When an attic is properly insulated, it restricts the movement of air, which will save energy and money while keeping hot air out. Proper installations of soffit vents and ridge or gable vents also help to facilitate the proper type and amount of airflow to keep things like mold away from your roof and ceilings. 

Having up-to-date attic insulation and attic ventilation that is well installed is the key to your home’s success. At Attic Construction, this is our specialty and we’re here to provide insight on common attic insulation mistakes to avoid. 

With professional help, an attic fan may prove unnecessary altogether, and you‘ll still be able to keep those bills lower and your home cooler. For more information on concerns like preparing an attic for cold weather or detecting thermal leaks, visit Attic Construction today for a consultation. 

Sources: 

1. Home Inspector Secrets. My 7 Pros and Cons of Vent Fans. https://homeinspectorsecrets.com/attic-fans/pros-and-cons-of-attic-ventilation-fans/#tab-con-4
2. Energy Star. About Attic Ventilation. https://www.energystar.gov/campaign/seal_insulate

Your attic does more than providing storage space for your stuff. It’s also designed to protect your home from the elements: cold, heat, and humidity.

But for your attic to do its job, you need proper attic insulation.

The trick, of course, is doing it right. Insulation is a skilled trade, and it takes time and practice for a safe and effective insulation installation. Without expert help from an insulation contractor, it’s easy to make costly or even potentially hazardous errors.

Don’t waste time and energy. Read on to avoid the five most common DIY attic insulation mistakes.

What Insulation Is and How It Works

First things first: how does insulation work? To answer this question, you’ll first need to understand how heat flows. 

Heat circulates in three different ways: conduction, convection, and radiation. 

• Conduction is the way heat transmits through materials.
• Convection is the way heat circulates through liquids and gases.
• Radiant heat, also known as thermal radiation, heats anything solid in its path, which then absorbs the energy. For example, this is how the sun warms the earth.

Insulation works by slowing conductive heat flow through the walls of your home. To a lesser extent, it also slows convective heat, which is the flow of heat through the air. 

Proper home insulation can save you up to 20% on heating and cooling costs while keeping you comfortable year-round.¹ And the appropriate amount of attic insulation results in less wear and tear on your HVAC unit.

Insulation Through the Seasons

Regardless of the mechanism, heat flows from warmer to cooler air until there is no longer a temperature difference between the two. 

• In the winter – During this time, you should be preparing your attic for the cold. Heat will flow from the heated interior spaces of your home to adjacent colder spaces such as the garage, unheated attic, basement, and outdoors. To maintain interior comfort, your home’s heating system should replace the heat lost in the winter.
• During the summer – In warmer months, heat flows from the warmer outdoors to the inside. The heat gained in the summer must be removed by the cooling system.

Properly insulating your home will decrease the amount of air needed to be replaced by your home’s HVAC system by providing an effective resistance to the flow of heat, which will result in energy savings and dollar savings.

Proper attic insulation  can also prevent:

• Gradual damage to your home caused by heat and moisture
• Water or condensation from seeping in and eroding the walls.
• Excess summer heat that can cause shingles to swell and break.

Now, you understand all of the benefits and you’re ready to insulate your attic.  So what are the common attic insulation mistakes to avoid?

Mistake #1: Using Incorrect Materials

The first step to a proper insulation job is choosing the right material. Insulation comes in many different forms:² 

• Fiberglass
• Cellulose
• Rock and slag wool
• Natural fibers
• Foam boards
• Reflective foils
• Polyurethane
• Vermiculite and perlite
• Cementitious foam
• Phenolic foam
• Urea-formaldehyde foam

To choose the best insulation for your home, you’ll need to consider where you want or need to install the material, the indoor air quality, life cycle costs, recycled content, and ease of installation.³

Most people use fiberglass batt insulation for their attics because it’s affordable and relatively easy to install. With this type of insulation, you must pay close attention to the R-value: its ability to resist heat flow.¹ The higher the R-value, the greater the effectiveness. The R-value is determined by the thickness and density of the insulating material, as well as temperature, aging, compression, and moisture content.³

The amount of insulation or R-value you will need depends on: 

• The climate where your home is located
• The type of heating and cooling system in your home
• The part of the house you’re insulating

For example, the R-value required for an attic in Zone 1, which includes the southern tip of Florida, Hawaii, Guam, Puerto Rico, and the Virgin Islands, is R30-R49. 

However, for an attic in Zone 5, which includes Massachusetts, Rhode Island, and Connecticut, R49-R60 is needed. 

To determine exactly what is required for your home, consult an insulation contractor.

Mistake #2: Neglecting to Seal Air Leaks

Insulation is a protective barrier that slows the rate at which heat enters or leaves your home.

But the insulation that you use is only half of the equation.

To prevent air movement between unconditioned and conditioned spaces, you’ll also need to seal:

• Outer walls
• Windows
• Doors
• Floors

Over time, air and thermal leaks can seriously impact your home’s air quality by allowing in pollutants such as dust, dirt, mold, and mildew. Insulating your attic can prevent these pollutants from entering the interior spaces of your home, allowing your family to breathe easier.

Choose the right product depending on the type of air leak:¹

• Caulk, expanding foam, or weather-stripping can fill smaller holes and cracks
• Plywood, drywall, or rigid foam insulation are ideal for covering larger holes
• Sheet metal and high-temperature caulk can close gaps around furnace flues and chimneys

Mistake #3: Blocking Air Flow

Ventilation is important in an attic. It’s critical to know where to seal gaps but also which places need to remain uncovered, as you don’t want to obstruct airflow. 

Many homes have soffits or eave vents that are designed to allow air to pass through the attic. This airflow prevents humidity issues and also extends the life of the roof.

Make sure not to cover these vents with insulation in order to prevent condensation and mold growth, which can destroy the effectiveness of the insulation and cause health problems.

Mistake #4: Pulling Out Old Insulation

Many homeowners begin by immediately removing old insulation. While this would seem like the logical thing to do, it can make a huge mess and may not ultimately be necessary.

Conversely, if the insulation is soiled with mold or mildew, or rodent droppings, and then carried through the house, it can expose family members to these toxins.

Before you begin pulling out what’s already there, it’s important to keep a few things in mind:

• The age of your home – In the 1950s and 60s, asbestos was commonly used in insulation. Asbestos is fine if left alone, but if agitated, the fibers released into the air can be extremely hazardous, especially if inhaled. Be sure to do your research and take the proper precautions to protect yourself and your family members.
• Assess existing materials – If there’s no asbestos risk, then the old insulation in your home may not need to be removed. Layers of insulation work in a similar fashion as layers of a blanket. You might just need to add some new insulation on top of the old layer to attain the appropriate R-value for your climate.
• Condition of old insulation – If there is evidence of moisture damage, such as from a roof leak, mold, or rodent activity, then the existing insulation should definitely be removed. Be sure to check each section thoroughly and replace it as needed.

Mistake #5: Overstuffing

When it comes to insulation, you might guess that the more you have, the better. 

But in reality, there can be too much of a good thing.

Fiberglass insulation is exactly that—glass that is blown into fibers.³ It has an almost magical quality to keep spaces warm in the winter and cool in the summer. But fiberglass insulation works by catching air between the layers of spun glass. If you pack too much into any given section, the air pockets will compress and the insulation won’t be as effective.

Mistake #6: Not Enough Material

The most common mistake when installing attic insulation is not being thorough enough.

It might sound easy to put up a few batts of insulation, but doing the job right takes time and precision. 

For a successful insulation installation , you should:

• Take appropriate measurements and install just the right amount.
• Cut the fiberglass to fit around any bracing, ducts, electrical, wiring, and pipes.
• Wear the proper protective gear. Fit batts or rolls snugly together to avoid gaps or spacing.
• Work it around any obstacles or tight corners.
• Keep it at least 3 inches away from any recessed lighting fixtures to avoid excess heat or fire.⁴

You may also want to install rafter vents at the soffits to prevent the insulation from covering the attic ventilation and allowing moisture to build up.

Want to Avoid Mistakes? Call in Attic Construction. 

Proper insulation can lower your energy bills and keep your home cozy all year long—but unfortunately, these common mistakes can lead to everything from icy-cold winters to health hazards.

The best way to prevent insulation mistakes in the attic is to use a professional. 

Whether you’re unsure if your existing attic insulation needs to be replaced, questioning what R-value is needed for your climate, find yourself wondering how an attic fan works, or wanting to prevent your family from being exposed to any hazardous materials, consult Attic Construction.

Our experts will take care of the process from start to finish, ensuring your home is as comfortable and efficient as possible. Get in touch for a free consultation to make sure the job gets done right the first time.

Attic Construction is a well-established and reputable company that has been providing attic insulation services in different areas from San Diego, Phoenix and Orange County. So if you are searching for San Diego insulation installation or Phoenix insulation removal, we are just a call away! Don’t take our word for it though, schedule a free inspection, and we’ll show you!

Sources: 

1. U.S. Environmental Protection Agency. “Seal and Insulate with Energy Star.” https://archive.epa.gov/greenbuilding/web/pdf/seal_and_insulate.pdf
2. U.S. Department of Energy. “Insulation Materials.” https://www.energy.gov/energysaver/weatherize/insulation/insulation-materials#natural
3. U.S. Department of Energy. “Energy Saver–Insulation.” https://www.energy.gov/energysaver/insulation
4. DIY Network. “How to Install Fiberglass Insulation.” https://www.diynetwork.com/how-to/rooms-and-spaces/walls-and-ceilings/how-to-install-fiberglass-insulation

Whether you’re a new homeowner jumping into house projects or you’ve been chipping away at your to-do list for years, you probably know there’s room for improvement in your home’s energy efficiency. Figuring out where your house is losing cooled or experiencing heat loss from your furnace and what to do about it can benefit your comfort, your budget, and the resale value of your home. 

Sealing thermal leaks is an ideal place to begin. 

In this short guide, we’ll cover common sources of thermal leaks—including those you can find yourself and those that a professional energy audit can reveal.¹

#1 Old and Improperly Sealed Windows

No surprise here—windows are a common culprit of air loss. Older homes, in particular, may have windows that look lovely but perform very poorly. 

Is it possible your windows are the source of your steep energy bills? To find out, check for drafts and look for condensation on your window glass. 

Improvement options range from simple DIY to more comprehensive upgrades: 

• Use blinds or heavy drapes to block the sun when you’re looking to cool down, or use dark-colored curtains to absorb sunlight in cold temperatures.
• Add caulking and weatherstripping around windows for seasonal or long-term use.
• Apply sun-blocking window film.
• Upgrade to energy-efficient, low-emissivity windows.

Up to a third of your home’s energy leaks may come from windows and doors, so this is a great place to start.²

#2 Inefficient Doors

Wouldn’t it be nice if the only issue with doors was leaving them open or closed? As the largest intentional holes in your snug home, well-fit and well-constructed doors are critical to reducing unintentional airflow. Visually inspecting your doors and checking for drafts on a windy day is a good start to identifying a hidden leak. 

How can you improve the efficiency of your doors?

• Caulk any openings or cracks in the door frame
• Install door weatherstripping and gaskets
• Sew or buy “door snake” draft stoppers 
• Install new doors with higher energy efficiency
• Seal windows if your door has one

As always, buying new is your most expensive option, but if you decide to replace a door, it’s a great opportunity to consider what visual and security upgrades can be part of this investment.

#3 Un- or Under-Insulated Walls

Yes, you see a solid surface when you look at your wall, but walls themselves can be a common source of thermal energy leakage. These energy leaks will be a bit more challenging to detect without knowing the construction details of your house or scheduling a professional energy audit. 

Walls can be problematic based on: 

• The insulation level in your walls – Exterior walls should be fully insulated, but weak spots may connect walls to an attached home or garage. You can carefully investigate your insulation by way of electrical sockets—removing the cover and taking a look inside with a flashlight, or even pulling out some insulation to see what kind it is—but be sure to turn off your power first!³
• Thermal bridging – This refers to the fact that your walls are not made of pure insulation—they include wooden framing and studs, which conduct heat flow more easily than insulation. Without being skilled in construction and knowing the nitty-gritty of your home’s building specs, ordering a thermal imaging report as part of a home inspection or home energy audit is your best bet.

There are not as many DIY approaches to wall improvement as with other thermal leak offenders, but adding awnings over metal windows and doors can provide some help. 

#4 Electrical Outlets

They’re small but mighty—and they add up. Having even a ⅛ inch gap around six outlets is equivalent to chopping a four-inch hole in roof leaks, and the average American home today has up to 70 electrical outlets.⁴

The fix for air leakage around outlets is pretty straightforward—plug up any gaps with caulk or foam. (You can also use foam gaskets designed for outlets, but caulking and foam will provide a superior seal.)

If you take on the project yourself, there are some critical things to remember when conducting an air leak test: 

• Intumescent (fire-blocking) foam or caulk is best used around ceiling boxes.
• Although generally not required by code, intumescent materials are a good idea for wall outlets as well.
• You’re looking to seal up gaps outside of the box and where cables come into the box—never seal inside the electrical box. 

And, above all, turn off your power before working on any electrical project!

#5 Wide-Open Chimneys

Whether you like to enjoy the crackle of an occasional fire in your fireplace or you keep it full of decorative candles, your open chimney is more likely to be a full-time source of trouble in keeping the room at a comfortable temperature. 

The solution? A chimney balloon. Sounds like something from a children’s book, right? But a chimney balloon is pretty much what it sounds like: a filled bag placed in the chimney to block air from coming in or escaping. You can have one professionally installed or try a DIY version.⁵

Without taking measures to prevent air leakage, an open chimney can cause a heat leak or drain cooled air by up to 70%.⁶

#6 Air Ducts

Air ducts are the highways carrying heat or cool air to every room in your house. You want them to be secure, sealed, and insulated correctly to make sure they aren’t losing that heated or cooled air before it reaches its destination. 

The how-to principle of duct sealing isn’t complicated—what can make this a big job is the location of ducts and how difficult it may be to access them throughout your house. 

You may want to tackle part of the project on your own. Then, call in professionals for hard-to-reach surfaces inside of walls and ceilings and to perform a duck air leak test to confirm the leak detection is completed successfully.

To get started:

• Check your visible ducts to ensure they are connected and free of holes or gaps.
• Straighten or untangle any flexible parts that have become crushed or torn.
• Use duct sealant (mastic) or metal-backed (foil) tape to patch any holes or leaks where the air is escaping.
• Make sure connections where ducts vent into rooms are sealed well.
• Add duct insulation to any ducts that go through unheated/uncooled areas of the building to prevent them from affecting the air traveling through them.

One (ironic) thing to remember is that you should not use duct tape for this project! Although strong, duct tape cannot withstand the temperature difference needed for this purpose.

Up to 30% of the heated or cooled air moving through ducts can be lost in a typical house due to leaks and improper connections.⁷ But at their most efficient, your air ducts will keep your home at the temperature you desire without wasting energy and driving up your utility bill in the delivery process. 

#7 Poor Attic Ventilation

Okay, “ventilation” seems like the opposite of what we’re trying to accomplish by sealing up leaks throughout your home, but some types of air exchange are necessary to keep your home properly heated or cooled. 

Heat rises, and attic spaces without proper ventilation can trap that hot air—which is not a good outcome, whether you’re fighting the summer temperatures or worried about ice dams in the northern cold. 

Your attic needs insulation baffles (or “rafter vents”) in addition to a layer of insulation covering the attic floor to establish the right mix of outdoor airflow without losing your perfect indoor temperature in the stories below.⁶ For more helpful tips like preparing an attic for cold weather, visit Attic Construction for more information. 

#8 Insufficient Insulation

We’ve already covered the insulation behind your walls, but insulation also plays an important role in your basement and attic. Let’s go over some common attic insulation mistakes.

Insulation is the partner that goes hand-in-hand with air sealing to reduce thermal leaks in your home. 

Determining whether your home could use new or additional insulation—and, if so, what kind—requires some help and research. There are different life expectancies and price points to consider, plus issues like moisture resistance and maintenance. (You can find out more about how insulation is rated (the “R value”) in our blog “What is Insulation R Value? Why is it Important?”)

But first, how do you determine your home’s current insulation status and needs?

An energy audit with thermal imaging, or infrared thermography (IRT), is an ideal thermal leak detector. You can purchase a thermal imaging camera or device, but an expert audit will include professional knowledge of what to scan and how to interpret the thermal image results from the thermal camera, often at a low cost. 

Reap the Benefits of Tackling Thermal Leaks With Attic Construction

Addressing thermal leaks with air sealing and proper insulation is a high priority for the health of your home and your family. Like any great investment, it will yield benefits based on what you put into it. These include:

• Lower utility bills 
• Better indoor air quality
• Limited access for insects and other pests
• Prevention of construction damage related to moisture problems
• Improvement of your home’s resale value
• Restoration of unpleasant drafts and overly hot or cold rooms and floors
• Protection of your roof from winter ice dams 
• Environment sustainability with a lower carbon footprint 

Ready to get started? Attic Construction is a well-trusted company that has been providing high-quality service since 2011. Whether you need San Diego, Orange County or Phoenix insulation installation, we can help. We offer a number of different insulation installation services that not only protect your home but also save you money in the long run. Questions regarding how an attic fan works? We’ve got you covered. 

Request an appointment to have one of our professional insulation installers come to your residence and do a complete attic inspection, with absolutely no strings attached. Get your free consultation today. Call today to get your hidden leak under control! 

Sources: 

1. Energy Star Blog. Professional Home Energy Audits. https://www.energy.gov/energysaver/home-energy-audits/professional-home-energy-audits
2. Greener Ideal Blog. 5 Sources of Energy Leaks in Your Home. https://greenerideal.com/guides/home-improvement/5-sources-of-energy-leaks-in-your-home/
3. Energy Star Blog. What to Look For: DIY Checks and Inspections. https://www.energystar.gov/campaign/seal_insulate/identify_problems_you_want_fix/diy_checks_inspections
4. Family Handyman Magazine. Foam Outlet Insulation Stops Cold Air Coming Through Electrical Outlets. https://www.familyhandyman.com/project/outlet-insulation-stops-cold-air-coming-through-electrical-outlets/
5. EcoThrifty Living Blog. How to make a DIY chimney balloon. https://ecothriftyliving.com/2013/11/diy-chimney-balloon.html
6. Architect Magazine. Where’s the Leak? 5 Common Ways Homes Lose Energy in Winter. https://www.architectmagazine.com/technology/wheres-the-leak-5-common-ways-homes-lose-energy-in-winter_o
7. Energy Star Blog. Duct Sealing. https://www.energystar.gov/campaign/heating_cooling/duct_sealing

Energy costs make up a huge percentage of most household budgets—and those costs only rise when temperatures plunge and furnaces start kicking on. 

But you don’t have to sit back and watch your energy bill skyrocket. Preparing your attic space for cold air now is a great way to keep your heating costs down during those crisp winter months.

Keep reading for handy tips and tricks for preparing your attic for whatever weather winter has in store, from the cold climate to polar plunges and everything in between.

#1 Check Your Roof 

Your roof can get cluttered with all kinds of natural debris, but you shouldn’t let it sit there for too long. 

When leaves, twigs, branches, or pine needles pile up, they can trap water or other moisture on your roof that can cause thermal leaks in your attic. 

If you feel comfortable doing so, you can clear this debris away on your own. Otherwise, enlist the help of a professional.

#2 Fill Cracks 

Cracks and holes in your attic can be a big problem, no matter their size. Warm air escapes through them and your furnace has to work overtime to compensate, sending your energy bill through the roof (pun intended). 

Wondering how to find and seal cracks?

• Wait until a bright, sunny day. Then, look for places where sunlight is shining in from outside.
• If there’s sunlight coming in, it’s a pretty safe bet that air leakage is prevalent . 
• In most cases, you can fix this issue yourself by filling any cracks, holes, or gaps you find with caulk or sealant. 

#3 Investigate For Signs Of Infestation 

If you discovered holes and cracks in your attic, there’s a good chance that rodents and other critters are sneaking into your attic space. Signs of rodent infestation include:

• Droppings
• Urine
• Gnawed or chewed wood

Sealing holes and cracks will keep other critters from getting into your attic, but can also trap any that have already chosen your attic as a warm place to pass the winter. This can cause even bigger problems down the road, so you’ll want to get a pest control expert on-site ASAP. 

#4 Check Your Ventilation

The importance of proper attic ventilation cannot be overstated. 

In winter, moist air tends to travel to the upper reaches of your home. If your attic is plagued by shoddy attic ventilation, the accumulation of all that damp air can lead to serious problems like wood rot or even dangerous molds.¹ 

To be sure that your attic is properly ventilated, check for: 

• Signs of moisture – If your attic isn’t properly ventilated, you might notice signs of dampness or moisture that has collected there, such as damp or rotted rafters or ceiling joists, mold growth, or damage to existing insulation.
• Attic vents – Attic vents are typically required by most building codes, but it’s a good idea to check that these vents haven’t gotten clogged with leaves, twigs, loose fill insulation, or other refuse and that they are in good working condition.²

If you discover that your attic isn’t properly ventilated, you might look into installing additional vents or using an attic fan. For more information on how an attic fan works, visit Attic Construction today. 

#5 Inspect Your Insulation

Making sure that your attic is outfitted with adequate insulation can keep your energy costs low, keep your HVAC from overworking and wearing out prematurely, and even improve the air quality of your home, among other benefits.³

A good place to start is by checking your existing insulation’s R-Value, which indicates an insulation’s effectiveness—the more effective an insulation, the higher its R-Value. The R-Value that’s right for you can depend on many factors, like where you live and your HVAC system.⁴ 

But R-Value isn’t the only thing to consider. Here are other signs that your insulation might not be up to snuff:

• Draftiness or inconsistent temperatures throughout your house
• Air leaks  or water damage
• Overworking HVAC or higher than expected energy bills 
• Rodent or other animal infestations 

If you’ve noticed any of these signs, it’s time to get a professional out to assess your attic insulation mistakes and remove and replace it as needed. 

Schedule Your Attic Inspection Now with Attic Construction

Winter will be here before you know it, so the time to start prepping your attic for cold air is now. 

Still, preparing an attic for cold can be a daunting and even stressful task, especially if your concerns are bigger than a few cracks or crevices. So why not let Attic Construction do it for you?

Questions about the R-Value of your current insulation or what R-Value is right for your home? We can tell you. Think your old insulation might be damaged or need to be replaced? Let us take a look. Our highly trained technicians are ready to answer all of your questions, and insulation is our specialty. 

Don’t wait until it’s the dead of winter and you’re shivering under a pile of every blanket you own due to heat loss. Request your inspection for proper insulation with Attic Construction today.

Sources:

1. Findlay Roofing. Tips For Preparing Your Attic For Winter. https://www.findlayroofing.com/news/tips-for-preparing-your-attic-for-winter
2. SFGate. How to Check Attic Ventilation. https://homeguides.sfgate.com/check-attic-ventilation-39941.html
3. ARS Rescue Rooter. The Benefits of Insulating Your Attic. https://www.ars.com/blog/the-benefits-of-insulating-your-attic
4. Energy.gov. Insulation. https://www.energy.gov/energysaver/insulation

Imagine this: dollar bills are floating out of the top of your house as you read this. That’s basically what’s happening if you live in a home with an uninsulated attic space. You might as well flush a twenty down the toilet every time you use your heating or cooling system.

If you’re tired of losing money, all it takes is a layer of proper attic insulation. Just like that, your energy bills will be lower, and your everyday temperatures will be more comfortable.

We’ll walk through just how much money you can save by using the proper attic insulation for your home. Keep reading to learn more and start saving the next time you turn on the heat or air conditioning.

How Much Money Will Insulating Your Attic Save You?

Lining your old attic insulation with energy efficiency insulation is not only good for the environment but also your wallet. 

The EPA estimates that the typical American home can save about 15% in yearly heating and cooling costs by properly insulating their attic space.¹ The same report estimates that 90% of American homes are under-insulated. This means there’s a pretty good chance that your home could benefit from a proper insulation overhaul—don’t worry, it’s not just you. 

Let’s look at an example to see how much money you can save:

• The average monthly energy bill in the US is $115.²
• That means the average yearly cost is $1380.
• The average savings from insulating your attic is estimated at 15%.
• That means the average household would pocket just over $200 each year.

While $200 may not seem like a ton of money, it adds up over time. It’s also important to remember that a properly insulated attic is more resistant to environmental damage. Not only will you save on your energy bill but also on maintenance and repair costs to your home.

Why The Attic?

Your attic is vented to the outside, which allows hot and cold air into the space. This air travels down to the rest of your house and makes your heating and cooling systems work harder to maintain comfortable temperatures.

By insulating your attic, you’re cutting off the problem at its source: the initial entry point.

When you insulate your attic, you prevent unconditioned air from seeping into the rest of your home. This prevents fluctuations in temperature, meaning your thermostat won’t constantly register every slight change and kickstart your heating or air conditioning.

How to Insulate Your Attic to Reduce Your Energy Bill

To maximize energy savings, there are several areas in your attic that you’ll need to focus on. Let’s take a look at each of them and discuss how to properly insulate these important areas:³

• Roof – Most attics have a slanted roof that either ends at floor level or in a short knee wall. As you can imagine, the roof is where your home loses the most energy. The amount of insulation you need for your roof will depend on where you live. Your home’s insulation R-value, or thermal resistance, should be somewhere between R-30 and R-60 based on the average temperature of the climate.

One important note about pitched attic storage ceilings is that you’ll need to install a baffle to allow for ventilation before putting in the proper insulation. Baffles may look like comically large egg cartons, but they have an important job. They ensure that air can still flow between the roof and the insulation you’ve installed. If you don’t install baffles, your roof can get too hot and will deteriorate more quickly, counteracting the value of a new sufficient attic insulation.

• Walls – You’ll want to add fiberglass insulation between the studs of your attic walls. This prevents cold or hot air from sneaking in where the roof meets the walls.
• Windows – If you have any windows in your attic, it’s important to ensure that all crevices around the windows are properly sealed. Caulking around windows only takes a few minutes, but this quick precaution yields major benefits. This simple task prevents both air and pests from getting into your attic.
• Floor – If you’re ever noticed temperature shifts in your house in the summer or winter, these are likely the result of hot or cold air sinking through your ceiling from the uninsulated attic above you. Maybe there’s one area in your living room that’s always freezing or a hot spot in the bedroom. If your attic has typically spaced floor joists, you can insulate by laying fiberglass insulation rolls between the joists. This will block the transfer of air from the attic to your living space and eliminate those hot and cold spots.

Get Help from the Professionals at Attic Construction

There’s really no downside to reducing your energy usage. It’s better for the environment, your energy costs, and your peace of mind—who doesn’t want that? 

If you want to reduce your energy and cooling bills by a sufficient attic insulation, the professionals at Attic Construction are always available to help. Our expert technicians know how to insulate against the tricky Arizona and California climates without breaking the bank. We’re ready to get started whenever you are!

Sources: 

1. Energy Star. Why Seal and Insulate? https://www.energystar.gov/campaign/seal_insulate/why_seal_and_insulate
2. U.S. Energy Information Association. Today in Energy. https://www.eia.gov/todayinenergy/detail.php?id=46276
3. Energy.gov. Where to Insulate in a Home. https://www.energy.gov/energysaver/where-insulate-home

As a successful real estate agent, you do more than find homes for your clients. You provide insight into the intricacies of the housing market, a reliable voice of reason when it comes to cost and budget, and a helping hand when it’s time to ensure a house is primed for selling. 

As such, you must equip yourself with the right information to keep your clients ready for everything, from head to toe (or from roof to basement). That’s why it’s important to keep a running checklist of the processes and actions you must complete when helping a future homeowner search for their dream house, particularly when it comes to the house’s inspection.  

Follow along as we cast some light on a few of the must-haves on your real estate agent checklist, including meeting the client, arranging home tours, and securing a thorough home inspection.  

#1 Set Up a First Meeting

If you and your client aren’t aligned, you may be missing some serious items on your real estate agent buyer checklist. Before beginning the home search, request a meeting at a cozy coffee shop or neighborhood-favorite brunch spot to go over the buyer’s own checklist.

Some buyers may have more needs or desires than others. A meeting is a friendly way to get a sense of where the buyer is in the home buying process. It’s also a perfect opportunity to educate the buyer on need-to-know action points, including:

• Assessing their finances, homeowners insurance, and determining a budget
• Filing for mortgage pre-approval
• Saving for a down payment
• Saving for a home inspection

Remember, the client is hoping to find the best real estate buyer to fit their needs. Put your best foot forward by bringing along your buyer’s presentation. A buyer’s presentation should include:

• Information about your background and experience as a real estate professional
• Information about your company or brokerage
• Additional fun facts or material that shares what you bring to the table

By the end of the meeting, your new real estate agent checklist should be up-to-date with everything your client is looking for (along with a few other key details). 

#2 Hunt for Houses

Once you’re equipped with valuable information regarding your client’s real estate desires, it’s time to start house-hunting. 

As the homebuyer’s guide, it’s your job to bring unique expertise and local insight into the home search. While your client may be in the market for high ceilings or a finished basement, it’s important to always keep the homebuyer’s budget at the forefront of the search. Though it’s usually acceptable to go over or under by a few thousand dollars, be sure to keep your client informed of any pricing changes. 

Ensure your clients are up to date with local listings by checking the market daily, then usher them into a home visit or open house. You’ve got to snag those dream homes quickly!

When compiling a list of potential dream homes, do your research. Consider this real estate agent checklist for listings:

• Location – Try to find a few listings within close proximity to the buyer’s workplace or school to reduce the buyer’s potential commute times
• Livability – Note the listings’ proximity to outdoor recreation, shopping malls, and schools
• Home features – Are cabinets and appliances up-to-date or will they need an upgrade? Has your client factored remodels into their budget? Always be aware of your client’s top-list needs, too.

Be warned: Many homebuyers also fall under the spell of “shiny object syndrome.” That is, falling for a beautiful home far outside their budget. Sift through potential listings with a critical eye to avoid any disappointment or regret from the buyer.

#3 Arrange a Home Tour or Visit an Open House

You’ve compiled a list of beautiful homes and your client has loved the look of each one—fantastic! Now it’s time to arrange a home visit. 

Home visits allow your client the opportunity to walk through the space, see what the house has to offer, and take note of any details that may have gone unnoticed in listing photos. In particular, it’s important to look out for signs of potential underlying issues, including rodent infestations, inefficient HVAC systems, and improper insulation. 

With a rodent infestation, you may notice:

• Droppings under sinks or within drawers and cupboards
• Chewed holes along baseboards or behind cabinets 

While a professional inspection, such as the inspections offered by Attic Construction, will be necessary to help you accurately determine the quality of a home’s HVAC system and insulation, signs of inefficiencies can include: 

• Aggravated allergies or asthma 
• Headache
• Dust 
• Varying temperatures in the home

Real Estate Buyer To Do: After viewing each home, encourage your client to keep a written record of what they loved, what they didn’t love, and any potential issues. Doing this offers a smart way for your client to keep track of their home-buying journey. A written record of your client’s evolving tastes will also provide a helpful guide for you when scheduling future home visits. 

#4 Navigate Contracts and Transactions

Once the client finds their dream home and commits to a purchase, it’s the real estate professional’s job to guide them through contract negotiations and transactions.

In general, a real estate agent must:<sup<1

• Open an escrow account – The best way to ensure the buyer and seller both feel as though they’re being treated fairly during the closing process is to open a third-party escrow account to hold all money and documents related to the real estate transaction.
• Acquire title search – To provide some legal safety, it’s vital to acquire a title search This document ensures that the home purchase cannot be usurped by another party.
• Negotiate closing costs – Throughout the closing process, additional fees may build depending on appraisal review fees, home inspection costs, and processing fees. It’s the responsibility of the real estate agent to work out and manage these closing costs.

#5 Schedule a Home Inspection

Perhaps the most important item on the real estate closing checklist is scheduling and completing a home inspection. While home inspections aren’t mandatory, both real estate buyers and homeowners can significantly benefit from them. 

The purpose of a home inspection is to assess the house for major structural, mechanical, or safety issues. During the inspection, a professional will navigate through the home, visually identifying potential problems to report to the buyer.  

In particular, an inspector will look for seven key defects:

• Water damage
• Electrical damage
• Plumbing issues
• Structural damage, including damage to the foundation of the home
• Roof damage, including damage to attic insulation (or improper insulation) 
• Rodent infestation
• HVAC system damage or issues 

Unless it’s a safety issue, an inspector will not take cosmetic blemishes into consideration. 

Why is a Home Inspection Important?

A home inspection is a vital to-do when purchasing a home. If the house has damage or suffers from an issue such as a rodent infestation, it may be difficult for a buyer to find a lender willing to finance the home. This is because most mortgage lenders want to make sure the house is worth the amount of money they’re lending to the buyer. If there are major issues within the home, the lender’s appraisal value may decrease. 

A home inspection is also a wise asset for the home buyer as it provides them with an in-depth look of the house and a guide for necessary improvements. Not only can underlying issues cost the homeowner money in the long run, but they can also negatively impact the homeowner’s health and well-being. This is particularly true in the case of rodent infestations, improper attic insulation, and polluted or damaged ductwork. 

Rodent Infestations

Even if the typical signs of a rodent infestation aren’t visible during a home tour, rats, mice, and other pests may have nevertheless invaded the home. A thorough attic inspection by the professionals at Attic Construction can determine the level of infestation and the amount of decontamination required. 

With a rodent infestation, cleaning the home does little to address the underlying issue. For effective rodent removal and home decontamination, specialty equipment must be used. This equipment also eliminates lingering, unseen dangers, such as fungi, germs, bacteria, and parasites, which can lead to: 

• Bacterial disease
• Respiratory disease
• Viral disease

Improper Attic Insulation 

If a home doesn’t have proper attic insulation, air from inside the home can escape, costing the homeowner thousands of dollars a year in energy bills. Plus, without proper insulation, a home becomes harder to cool in the hot summer months, and more difficult to warm during frigid winters, creating an uncomfortable living experience for the homeowner. 

Polluted Air Ducts

When air ducts and HVAC systems aren’t regularly cleaned, they fill with dust and debris. Over time, this can lead to:

• Poor air quality – Unclean HVAC systems circulate dust, debris, and other particulates throughout the home. This not only aggravates allergies and asthma, but it can also lead to headaches, stuffy noses, and other cold symptoms. 
• Inefficient air circulation – When air ducts are blocked with dust and debris, HVAC systems have to work that much harder to operate effectively. This leads to higher energy bills for the homeowner, and a shorter HVAC system lifespan. 

Fortunately, when a home inspection can identify these issues, the buyer can then renegotiate their offering price or request that a trusted company make improvements to the home. 

Add Attic Construction To Your Checklist

In addition to shiny new kitchen appliances, spacious closets, and decorative crown moldings, a dream home must also boast a strong, effective foundation free of rodents, dust, and other dangerous contaminants. Plus, with proper attic insulation and a clean HVAC system, a dream home can keep the homeowner cool in the summers, warm in the winters, and breathing easily all year round. 

Before committing to a home, trust the professionals at Attic Construction to provide a thorough inspection and resolve underlying issues that can cost buyers their money, as well as their health. Whether it’s rodent removal and decontamination, insulation installation, or HVAC cleaning and repair, Attic Construction delivers quality work you can rely on for years to come. Save time, hassle, and money with Attic Construction. 

Sources: 

1. Investopedia. How to Get Pre-Approval for a Mortgage. https://www.investopedia.com/mortgage-preapproval-4776405
2. Investopedia. 12 Steps of a Real Estate Closing. https://www.investopedia.com/articles/mortgages-real-estate/10/closing-home-process.asp 

Insulating your attic can lower your energy bills and keep you comfortable year-round. But for many homeowners, tackling the issues with attic insulation can be a daunting task full of unknowns. Factors involved in ensuring proper insulation include product choice, installation methods, and hazard prevention. 

Without expert help, it’s easy to make potentially dangerous or costly mistakes on existing insulation.

These five attic insulation installation tips will help you to better understand the installation process, make smart choices for your home, and ensure effective insulation installation. 

#1 Select the Right Product

The two most common insulation materials are fiberglass and cellulose, which feature different benefits and drawbacks.

• Fiberglass insulation is a smart energy-saver and very long-lasting, but attempting to install it yourself can be dangerous
• Cellulose is inexpensive and a very messy and difficult insulation to install which can also be prone to infestation and mold when installed incorrectly. 

With so many pros and cons to weigh, it can be helpful to get the opinion of a professional insulation contractor who can cater their advice to your specific needs. An insulation contractor could help you to decide between cellulose insulation, fiberglass batt insulation, fiberglass roll insulation, and other options like spray foam insulation.

#2 Be Mindful of Health Concerns

Your attic’s insulation could be full of disease-causing materials without you even knowing.

What are the risks? Let’s take a look.

Rodent Infestations

Rat infestations are common in insulated attics. Rats are exceptionally skilled at nesting and leaving droppings in hard-to-reach places. Rat feces and urine contain allergens and pathogens that are harmful to humans if inhaled. In addition, the following viral and bacterial diseases can be transmitted by common rodents:¹

• Hantavirus Pulmonary Syndrome
• Leptospirosis
• The Plague
• Rat-Bite Fever
• Salmonellosis
• Colorado Tick Fever
• Lyme Disease
• Rickettsialpox

The presence of rats also encourages excess moisture, which can lead to mold growth.

Mold, Mildew, and Fungi

Mold can develop on nearly any surface, including insulation, drywall, paint, dust, and even your attic space! If there is excess moisture anywhere, mold spores are sure to follow.

Presence of Asbestos 

Asbestos can go relatively unnoticed for quite some time until it’s too late. Having a professional check for asbestos and properly remove any trace of it will saving you thousands of dollars in the long run. 

The Need for Decontamination and Cleanup

In any and all cases where attic decontamination is needed, the process should be handled by a professional wearing the proper protective gear. Even entering the contaminated attic space poses serious risk to people unfamiliar with adequate insulation cleanup.

Many homeowners who attempt to remove old insulation will carry the bacteria, virus, and mold-filled material out of their attic and through their house to get rid of it. This could potentially expose your entire family to the disease-causing agents lingering in the insulation material.

#3 Prevent Under- and Over- Insulating

It takes a practiced hand to strike the perfect balance between insulation that’s thick enough to properly retain heat and insulation that’s too thick, restricting ventilation.

Some people, particularly those attempting to DIY their attic cleanup, may assume that too much insulation material is better than too little. However, an excess of home insulation can negatively impact the productivity of your home’s HVAC system. Restricted ventilation in attic areas can result in reduced airflow, and heat loss throughout the entire household. This reduction in active airflow can lead to further problems, such as moisture buildup and mold growth.

Further, the extra efforts exerted by the HVAC system to circulate air can unnecessarily increase energy consumption and bill costs.

#4 Ensure Lower Energy Costs

Proper home insulation can be key to lowering electricity and heating costs. Attics and crawl spaces are frequently neglected areas of the home, but they are crucial to maintaining a tight thermal envelope. Proper air sealing and insulation in attics make it easier for temperature and air quality regulation systems to maintain a steady and comfortable, adequate insulation  environment. 

When heating and cooling systems do not have to fight against the outside temperature and air leaks, they use less energy. When they use less energy, you pay less for energy. Cost-effective insulation, made simple. 

#5 Get the Job Done Right

Without the proper knowledge and tools, handling a blown insulation project by yourself can be extremely difficult and hazardous. 

However, attempting to contract out to multiple different services for the same job can be costly, bothersome, and time-consuming.

So, what’s the solution?

Hire a professional who can tackle all aspects of the job, from appraisal to insulation removal, extermination to decontamination, and finally to insulation installation. 

Don’t Go It Alone—Trust Attic Construction!

Now that you’ve read the insulation tips Attic Construction has to offer, we bet you’re eager to tackle the job with professional help.

Whether you are unsure what material would be the best replacement for old insulation, are worried about a potential rodent infestation, or are just confused about where to start, Attic Construction has the insulation installation expertise for you.

Let Attic Construction take care of the attic cleaning and insulating process from start to finish. That way, your attic’s new insulation will make your home as comfortable and efficient as possible.

We also provide Orange County, San Diego or Phoenix insulation removal, installation & rodent proofing, we are always here to help.

Sources: 

1. CDC. Diseases from rodents. www.cdc.gov/rodents/diseases/index.html/

When homes are built, the type of foundation can make a big difference. While many homes are built with a basement or on concrete slabs, crawl spaces are common for homes built on a slope, or where there’s a risk of flooding. Crawl spaces are increasingly common on new constructions throughout the US. In fact, nearly 20% of new homes are built using a crawl space. 

Your home’s crawl space creates a barrier between the ground and the floor of your home and can prevent flood water from entering your living space and reduce the risk of termite infestation. It also provides easy access to your plumbing, gas connections, wiring, and ventilation so service technicians can make repairs without digging.  

However, one drawback of the crawl space is the possibility to let hot or cold air in and out of your home, which can lead to excess energy use and uneven temperatures throughout your home. It can also allow moisture buildup to create mold and mildew and lead to rot in your support beams, and in many cases the moisture buildup can penetrate your floor, causing mold and mildew on carpets and rugs. Luckily, these issues can be controlled through ventilation, air sealing, and most importantly, proper insulation. 

If you have cold floors in the winter, or you’re dealing with high energy bills each month, it’s time to consider adding insulation to your crawl space. So how do you approach this project, and is it worth the time and investment?

Benefits of crawl space insulation

Proper insulation in your crawl space, combined with air sealing and insulation throughout your home, can help keep your house more comfortable throughout the year by preventing hot or cold air from entering and exiting your home. It can also help you avoid moisture buildup that can compromise the structural integrity of your home and bring mold and mildew problems along with it. 

When your home is well insulated, you can go longer in the fall and spring without turning on your heater or air conditioner, and help your HVAC system work more efficiently when it is time to turn it on for the season. This can reduce wear and tear on your heating and cooling equipment, and in turn save you money on your monthly bills and maintenance costs for your system. 

A well sealed, insulated, and ventilated home also can help improve your indoor air quality by keeping allergens and other contaminants out of your home. Additionally, by making your home airtight you can reduce entry points for rodents and other pests, which can save you money on exterminators and repairs, as well as help you avoid diseases brought into your home by infestations. Insulation in the crawlspace can also protect your pipes from freezing in the winter, which can save you thousands of dollars on plumbing repairs. 

The pitfalls of DIY

While you can insulate your crawl space on your own, there are plenty of safety concerns to consider. Handling damaged insulation can irritate your skin, eyes, and lungs. You may also expose yourself to mold or bacteria left by pests. Additionally, the type of insulation material you use and the spaces you install it depends on a lot of factors, including the type of existing insulation that’s in place and whether or not you have a ventilated crawl space.

If you see evidence of water damage, broken insulation, or rodent infestation, the safest thing to do is hire a professional. They have the safety equipment and experience to clean out your crawl space and install adequate insulation. An expert can also help you rodent-proof the space to prevent infestations and help you decontaminate areas where rodents have made nests.  

A professional can help you determine the best materials for the job, including the proper R-value you need to use, and ensure your insulation is safe from moisture damage. If you’re not sure about the benefits of using rigid foam vs fiberglass batt insulation, you should consult an expert before you wind up wasting money on the wrong materials. 

Any time you perform work on your home without hiring a professional, you run the risk of missing out on benefits from your home warranty or insurance policy if you ever need to file a claim. Improper air sealing or insulation installation can have a negative impact on your home’s ventilation, increasing your home’s risk for water damage. It can also create a fire hazard if insulation is installed too close to electrical wiring. 

In the long run, hiring a professional can help you keep your free time open and ensure the job is done properly without wasting any materials or accidentally injuring yourself, especially when you are working in tight spaces like the crawl space. Contractors also will have comprehensive insurance coverage that will take care of accidental damage. 

So what does the job entail, exactly? There are two common approaches, depending on what type of crawl space you have. 

Insulating a vented crawl space

If you have a vented crawl space, you can simply install rolled fiberglass directly on the subfloor and between the floor joists. The insulation should be fully secured with a mechanical fastener, and you should be sure to seal off all the seams. Once the insulation is installed, you should add a vapor barrier over the insulation to protect it from water damage. 

Before you install underfloor insulation, it’s crucial to identify any air leaks and seal them using caulk or another appropriate sealant, depending on the size of the cracks. Air leaks are commonly found anywhere pipes or wires penetrate the floor. You can use weather stripping on hatches that provide access to the crawlspace within the house to prevent air leaks. 

Some homes use the crawlspace for air ducts to deliver conditioned air throughout the house. You should be very careful not to damage the air ducts, and consider adding insulation to them as well if they don’t have any. 

Ventilated crawl spaces were the standard for many years, but newer homes are more likely to close off the area under the home. While vented crawl spaces offer certain advantages, especially in areas prone to flooding, it’s worth consulting a professional and considering whether you should seal your crawl space vents and convert to an unvented, or encapsulated, crawl space. 

Insulating an unvented crawl space 

An unventilated crawl space should be treated as part of the conditioned space, and you should insulate the walls rather than the subfloor. In many cases, this will require less insulation. 

You should check all the exterior walls for air leaks and seal them off using caulk or foam sealant as you work.

With an unventilated crawl space, you should also consider adding a termite barrier that covers the areas between the joists and across the foundation wall. You should also add a moisture barrier to the dirt or concrete floor beneath your crawlspace to prevent condensation from creating water problems.

Unvented crawl spaces can offer any advantages for home homeowners, but they aren’t always the best option for your home. Unvented crawl spaces can reduce your risk of termites and other pests, and they are often better at controlling humidity and excessive moisture buildup. They can also prevent outdoor air, and all the allergens and other contaminants that come along with them, from entering your home, and can help keep your floors warmer in the winter. 

How Attic Construction can help

Fiberglass insulation can last for decades with proper protection, but it can become damaged and lose its thermal protection from things like moisture buildup, mice or rats chewing through it, and dirt or other debris. Our team can protect your insulation by installing a vapor barrier, ensuring your crawl space vents are functioning properly, and protect your space from rodents. 

On its own, crawl space insulation will only address some of your heat loss. Without adequate attic and wall insulation, you will still waste a lot of energy keeping your home comfortable. Our team of insulation professionals can insulate your crawl space as well as provide air sealing and insulation throughout your home so you can get the full benefits from your investment.  

Attic Construction is the top rated crawl space clean up and attic insulation company in San Diego, Orange County, and the Phoenix, AZ, area. Our offices are open 7 days a week to provide insulation services and rodent proofing for homeowners looking to save money on their energy bills and maintain a safe, comfortable space throughout the year. Set up your free inspection, and we perform detailed evaluation of your space with pictures, and we will provide an estimate before we leave. We are confident in our craftsmanship, which is why we offer an unconditional 1-year warranty on all work we perform. Contact us today to schedule your consultation and learn more about how we can help. 

Source:

https://www.eeba.org/problem-free-closed-crawls-1

Your home is built to protect you from the elements, but not all homes are created equally. As much as 30% of your energy usage is wasted on air leaks throughout your house, and the attic is one of the biggest offenders. When you have significant leaks, warm or cold air that travels through ducts in your HVAC system will get trapped in the attic, causing a spike in your energy bill. It can also affect the comfort of your home, allowing outside air to travel freely into your house and letting the conditioned air escape. Attic insulation installation and air sealing work to prevent these problems and can provide a variety of other benefits as well. 

The prospect of air-sealing attic crawl spaces on your own is daunting, but an experienced contractor can ensure you use the right materials and address all of the common concerns. Additionally, they can help you install insulation and improve ventilation for increased energy efficiency and a more comfortable home. So how do you know if you need to air seal your attic, and what does it entail? 

When to consider attic air sealing 

Air sealing attic bypasses is a process that involves finding areas where conditioned air can impact the home and sealing them off. Hiring a professional who knows how to air seal attic crawl spaces offers many benefits, including a lower utility bill, improved indoor air quality, humidity control, and improved efficiency of your HVAC system while protecting it from wear and tear. The process can also reduce your carbon footprint and make your home more eco-friendly. A well-sealed home can protect you from pest invasions by reducing entry points for insects and other small animals, as well as keep dust and dirt from blowing into your home.

While many newer homes are designed with up-to-date energy efficiency features to keep your home from leaking air, they require maintenance to reap the full benefits. On the other hand, older homes are often designed to outdated standards and lose a lot of air. If you’re not sure whether or not your attic is insulated, or if there are significant air leaks, it’s worth taking some time for an inspection. If access to your attic space is unsafe, or you notice mold or mildew, you should hire a contractor that provides complete attic air sealing services to take a closer look. They can identify problems, help you address the issue much faster than you can on your own, and ultimately determine the answer to the question of “is air sealing the attic worth it?” 

Signs you may need to consider air sealing attic space include:  

• Noticeable drafts
• Uneven heating and cooling throughout the home
• High energy bill 
• Excess dust
• Dry air in the winter

Air sealing alone isn’t enough

Eliminating air leakage is only one step in the process of improving your home energy usage. Without insulation, it is much harder to maintain the ideal climate indoors. Insulation works by reducing the transfer of heat from one space to another, and it also can help you control moisture in your attic. 

There are a variety of insulation types, and trying to figure out the best type for your home involves careful consideration. Marketing for some insulation types leaves out many drawbacks that come along with them, such as how well their ability is to control fire or pests, and how well they stand up over the years. A professional can educate you on the advantages of different materials, such as fiberglass batts, spray foam, or cellulose insulation, and help you find the best value for your home. 

The other important factor for keeping your home comfortable is ventilation. Improving ventilation will keep your home cooler by moving warm air outside, and protect your insulation from water damage by minimizing moisture buildup. However, adding too much insulation or sealing off your attic improperly can have a negative effect on your home’s ventilation. A contractor will have the experience to add proper insulation and seal areas carefully without obstructing the airflow in the attic. They can also repair a malfunctioning ventilation system so you can protect your home and keep it comfortable. 

Insulation and ventilation should also be considered together if you want the full benefits of air sealing attic spaces and get the most out of the money you spend on the project, and the best way to do this is with expert guidance. 

Why you should hire a professional 

There are many safety issues with working in the attic, even for people with a lot of DIY experience. Simply accessing the attic and working in a limited space can be risky unless you have experience.  Older types of wiring in the attic can be a fire hazard around insulation, and a professional will know how to mitigate these issues. These same homes may have insulation that contains asbestos, which requires special care to handle. Additionally, the attic can get very hot, which puts you at risk for heatstroke if you don’t take the proper precautions.

A professional has the tools and training to get the job done safely and thoroughly, without eating into your free time. Using a professional will also ensure your home warranty and insurance covers any future issues in your attic. The team at Attic Construction is licensed, bonded, and insured, and we offer a free one-year warranty for all our work. Here are some of the steps we take as we approach your project:

Identifying and sealing attic air leaks 

Our expertise allows us to quickly identify air leaks in your attic. We will check and seal fixtures that penetrate the attic floor or ceiling, such as light fixtures, vents, chimneys, pipes, wiring, and electrical outlets. As we identify attic air leaks, we can seal them off using caulk, spray foam, or aluminum flashing as needed. We can also add weather stripping to the attic hatch. 

Inspecting the ductwork

Our team can identify damaged or leaky ductwork and repair it, as well as clear out obstructions or dirt that is reducing your HVAC system’s efficiency and affecting your indoor air quality. Our team can also repair tangled or kink ducts and help you decide whether repair or replacement is the best option for your home. Repairing your ductwork can help you keep your home cleaner and reduce allergy symptoms.

Adding insulation

Proper insulation is best left to the professionals. Our experts can evaluate the condition of your home’s current insulation and help you determine the best places to add fiberglass insulation and the best R-value for your home. We offer insulation for the attic, ductwork, exterior, and interior walls, and in the crawl space underneath your floor. We can also help you determine whether to remove existing insulation or supplement it. 

Moisture control 

There are many ways that moisture can enter your attic. If the kitchen, bathroom, or dryer is blowing humid air into your attic, this can create a mold and mildew risk. Additionally, excess water can build up when there is too much hot air in the attic in the summer. The moisture can ruin your insulation and cause wood to rot, which can compromise the structure of your home.

Installing a radiant barrier

Unlike ventilation or insulation, radiant barriers help regulate your home’s temperature by preventing hot air from getting into the attic in the first place. We can help you select and install a radiant barrier with the best reflectivity and emissivity for your particular home. 

Pest control 

Rats, mice, and other animals may try to make a home in your attic. They can chew through your attic insulation, wiring, and roof framing, causing extensive damage. Some of these animals carry diseases that can have serious health consequences. While an exterminator can take care of the problem once they’ve nested, our team can prevent them from entering your home in the first place. This can save you money on home repairs and protect your family from diseases. 

Ventilation repair 

If your ventilation system isn’t functioning properly, adding insulation and sealing the attic will exacerbate the problem. Our team will evaluate your current ventilation and make repairs to your system as needed to prevent lost air from your HVAC system and keep your attic cooler in the summer. 

Experienced professionals you can depend on

If you want to save money on your monthly energy bills, improve your energy efficiency, and protect your HVAC system, we can help. Attic Construction provides attic air sealing and insulation services in San Diego, Orange County, and the Phoenix area. Whether you need an attic insulation removal in Orange County or decontamination services in Phoenix…we got you covered!
Our team of qualified experts draws from over a decade of experience, and we can help you locate air leakage, seal your attic and provide insulation. We also offer crawl space and attic clean-up and decontamination services to address health concerns caused by a rodent infestation or mold. 

Our offices are open 7 days a week and we can work with your schedule to set up a free inspection at a time that’s most convenient to you. Once we arrive, we will do a thorough inspection of your space, take detailed photos and provide an immediate estimate before we leave. Contact us today to learn more about how we can improve your home’s efficiency and keep you comfortable year-round.