Insulation in most newer homes is unlikely to wear out soon, but older homes may contain insulation that is wearing out, leaving your home – and you – prey to high utility bills, chilly rooms and pests. Any of the following signs may indicate that you need to replace your home’s insulation.
High Electric Bills
Often one of the first indications of poor insulation is an electric bill that is significantly higher than usual. Since heat and cooling systems account for a large portion of your utility bill, when these systems need to turn on more frequently to do its job, it may mean insulation needs replacing.
Aging Materials
If you suspect insulation is failing, you can simply feel the insulating materials by heading up to the attic and feeling your insulation with a glove. If it starts to crumble when touched, it may have lost its efficacy.
Varying Rooms Temperatures
If you find temperatures inconsistent throughout the house, it may mean insulation failure. You may notice that one room is unusually cold and the room next to it much hotter, or that you feel cold drafts in winter or hot spots in summer.
Overworked Furnace
A furnace that’s running overtime in winter may be trying to regulate heat in a home where cold air is steadily invading. Not only will updating insulation cut down on the amount of time your furnace is burning oil, it will also save on wear and tear on the system in the long run.
Roofline Indicators
Look up at your roofline. In colder climates, you may actually see ice or icicles on the edge of your roof. Conversely, you may also notice exposed roof tiles after a snowfall, indicating that warm air is escaping from the attic.
Infestations
Mold growth and pest infestations can indicate an insulation problem. Unfortunately, insects like to get cozy in insulation, and if you find signs of an infestation, often the only way to eliminate the problem is to remove and replace the insulation. Also, check ceilings for mold growth in corners, possibly meaning that your current insulation is holding moisture, leaving it vulnerable to mold, mildew and bacterial growth.
Call A Professional
If your home is experiencing any of these telltale symptoms, it may be time to call in a professional for an assessment of your current insulation. To learn more, contact USI online to get a free quote. USI believes that excellence in every step of the process ensures timely completion and quality service, time after time.
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