Proper Attic Sealing And Insulation

But if you ve got an unfinished attic giving it proper insulation is one of the simplest ways to keep a lid on your heating bill this season.

Proper attic sealing and insulation. The higher the r value the better the thermal performance of the insulation. The following picture shows what a properly insulated attic should look like. The performance of your roof involves more than durable roofing shingles. Insulation level are specified by r value.

A finished attic should be insulated much like the rest of the house with insulation in the walls and ceiling. How to insulate a finished attic. This is more expensive and usually requires a contractor but it may be worth the cost especially if you live in a very cold climate. In the summer natural air flow in a well vented attic moves super heated air out of the attic protecting roof shingles and removing moisture.

That means insulating the attic floor only not the walls and having vents in the roof. It takes a complete roofing system including ventilation and insulation products to maximize your roof s performance and durability. If your attic has enough insulation and proper air sealing and your home still feels drafty and cold in the winter or too warm in the summer chances are you need to add insulation to the exterior walls. The insulation will resist heat transfer into the house.

The department of energy estimates that a properly insulated attic. Attic insulation air sealing experts enjoy a more comfortable healthy and efficient home with quality attic insulation services. R value is a measure of insulation s ability to resist heat traveling through it. With a finished attic insulation must help keep the attic areas comfortable.

Proper attic insulation is the best way to prevent heat loss in the winter and retain cool air in the summer. The following image confirms that when insulation is properly installed warm air stays out in the summer. How proper attic insulation helps your home and roof. An attic that doesn t meet insulation standards will lead to high heating and cooling costs uncomfortable rooms and uneven temperatures throughout your home.

Proper insulation and air sealing also keeps attics cold in winter by blocking the entry of heat and moist air from below. It s a diy project you can tackle in a weekend and the savings you ll get add up every year says toh general contractor tom silva. Home comfort problems often start in the attic where poor insulation and numerous air leaks create problems for your heating and cooling system and make your home uncomfortable. The table below shows what levels of insulation are cost effective for different climates and locations in the home.

So it s time to pay close attention to what s happening up there. Proper attic sealing and insulation.