Home insulation isn’t something most people check regularly. It’s hidden inside the walls, the attic, and the crawlspace, so it’s easy to forget it’s even there!
Though insulation usually needs very little maintenance and can last for decades, it is important to watch for signs that your insulation is degrading and needs to be replaced. Valley Insulation discusses 5 instances that might indicate it’s time to replace your insulation.
1.) You Have Had a Water Leak
Even small water leaks in the home can be surprisingly destructive, requiring carpet, flooring, furniture, and more to need replacing. If your home has had some form of a water leak you also need to check the insulation in that area.
Wet insulation that isn’t able to completely dry out can mold and mildew, leading to the mold spreading. Mold in the walls not only destroys insulation and prevents it from properly insulating, but it can be extremely harmful to your health.
Moldy insulation needs to be removed and replaced right away.
Related Post: What Do I Do About Old Cellulose Insulation?
2.) You Have Had to Treat For Pests
Pests are already frustrating enough, but did you know that they can damage the insulation in your walls and attic? Depending on the type of pest you have had to treat for, it is smart to check the insulation in the areas where they seem to be living.
Small rodents and mice can make nests and urinate in insulation, creating not only a health hazard but leaving the insulation wet and prone to mold. Pests in the attic, like squirrels and raccoons, will leave urine and feces in the insulation, which can create a number of health problems if not taken care of.
3.) Your Home Won’t Stay Cool
If you are having difficulty keeping your home cool in the summer, even though you feel like your air conditioner is constantly running, you need to get your insulation checked. Insulation is important to maintaining a comfortable temperature inside the home, and if your insulation is degraded then you are fighting a losing battle trying to stay cool.
4.) Your Home is Losing Heat
Much like trying to cool your home, if you are finding that in the winter you are running the heat constantly and your home is still freezing, your insulation is likely not doing its job. Properly installed, quality insulation should make it easier to keep your home at the desired temperature.
5.) Your Energy Bill is High
If your energy bill is much higher than it should be, it’s time to check and see if your insulation needs to be replaced. Running the air conditioning or heat constantly to regulate your home can be costly, and unnecessary.
Replacing your insulation can save you time, money, and energy in the long run.
Call Valley Insulation to Inspect Your Insulation
Valley Insulation has been in business for over 40 years, serving the Greater Cincinnati area in all their insulation needs, including insulation removal and replacement. Contact Valley Insulation or call (513) 353-4100 to get a free quote.
