Insulation is an essential part of every home. It helps create a comfortable indoor environment, keep the pests away, and keep your energy bills low. Are you worried that your home doesn’t have sufficient insulation? It’s a common problem with many houses across the country. No homeowner wants to live in an uncomfortable home. It can lead to sleeping issues and more. These are eight warning signs your home is under-insulated.
Temperature Inconsistencies
When you set the temperature on your thermostat, that’s the temp you’d like your home to be. You should be able to set it and forget it. But you may find that when you walk into a bedroom, it’s uncomfortably cold in the winter. Or maybe you find that upstairs is a warmer temperature than downstairs. This inconsistency is incredibly frustrating for homeowners.
A poorly insulated house will suffer from inconsistent temperatures. It’s an annoying reality. A professional residential insulation contractor like A-Rite will easily solve this issue for you. After the professionals work their magic, you’ll have more consistent temperatures throughout your home, not to mention more comfort!
High Energy Bills
Do you feel like your energy bills continue to climb? The most likely problem is a home with inadequate insulation. Your HVAC system has to work harder to heat and cool your house when it has low insulation levels. After the system attempts to cool or heat your home, the air escapes through the walls, attic, windows, or doors because the insulation allows the treated air to leave.
Many homeowners will save up to 20 percent on energy costs when they upgrade their house’s insulation. It’s time to stop wasting your money. Contact a professional to come out and bring your home’s insulation levels where they should be.
Noise Issues
Can you hear conversations neighbors are having through your walls? Can you listen to your kids talking down in the basement while you’re sleeping upstairs? Are you tired of hearing the loud traffic outside? A properly insulated home will dampen the intensity of these annoying noises. Pay attention to specific rooms. Can you hear the street noises louder in the kitchen than in your bedroom? Let the professional that you hire know which areas you suspect need an insulation boost.
Insulation will also bring an additional layer of privacy to your home. What homeowner doesn’t want increased privacy? Cellulose and fiberglass are the insulation types that provide the best sound barrier for your house. Of course, talk with an insulation professional to ensure you’re sufficiently blocking out the noises.
Moisture Around the Windows or in the Attic
Are you noticing moisture around your windows or in the attic? This sign points toward insufficient levels of insulation in your home. You should immediately contact a professional to solve this moisture problem.
Increased moisture levels can lead to mold and mildew growth and water damage. These are costly problems no homeowner wants to deal with. More insulation will keep the excess moisture out of your home for good.
Freezing Pipes
Homes typically have pipes in unheated areas, which requires the house to have adequate insulation to prevent them from freezing. What are the places you should focus on for the lines? These spots include the following:
- Basement
- Attic
- Walls
- Floors
- Garage
Do you find that your pipes are freezing even with the heat on? That’s a serious problem. Your home doesn’t have sufficient insulation. A burst line is a nightmare for any homeowner. The damage can be costly and severe. Insulation could be the answer you’re looking for.
Damaged or Minimal Insulation
Can you visibly tell that your home has damage or insufficient insulation levels? It’s possible for homeowners to perform a basic home insulation inspection. Of course, you can’t peek into every wall or floor of your house, but you can definitely view this problem in an unfinished attic. Follow the proper precautions, especially if you have an older home. Asbestos is a real danger. Ensure you wear gloves, a face mask, and safety goggles during the insulation check.
So what should you be looking for during this DIY inspection? Here are a few things to check:
- Is any insulation blocking the ventilation in the crawlspace or attic?
- Turn off the breaker and remove the outlet covers to take a peek inside. With a flashlight, look around. Is there insulation there?
- Figure out what type of insulation you have. Is it spray foam, fiberglass, cellulose, or another kind?
This check will provide valuable information for the insulation professional.
Pest Issues
Are you noticing more mice, bugs, and other pests in your home? These little critters can weasel their way inside through any crack, gap, or hole in your house. Most of these cracks appear on the roof, foundation, and siding.
These small creatures love to burrow and create nests inside the insulation, leading to homeowners’ problems. They can damage the insulation and eat away at the material. When the pests don’t have anywhere left to nest, they’ll come into your house. Along with an insulation professional, you should hire pest control to remove the tiny critters taking over your home.
Drafts
Another DIY inspection homeowners can do is to look for drafts. Walk around your home and feel the walls and floors. Do they feel cold to the touch during the winter? This cold is a problem. They should feel warm and dry. It’s especially alarming if you notice condensation. Ensure you’re paying close attention to the areas around windows and doors.
Drafts are most likely the culprit. Small cracks and gaps can allow the outside elements to enter your home. Updating the insulation is a good cure for these uncomfortable drafts. You’ll definitely want to tackle this before the fall and winter. Drafts aren’t fun to deal with in the colder months.
Are you noticing any of these under-insulation signs in your home? It’s essential to call a professional insulation installer immediately to take care of this inadequate insulation issue. A-Rite is here to help you with all your insulation needs. Our experienced team members will update your home’s insulation and leave it more comfortable than ever. Contact us today to find out more information.
