Attic Insulation and Your Roof

With fall here and winter on the way, it’s important to assess the condition of your attic, particularly insulation in the attic, as it plays a critical role in the roofing system’s overall performance. “As a rule of thumb, 80% of homes are under insulated and not properly air sealed,” said Wendy Cline, J&B Construction owner. “Plus, 40% of heat loss goes through the attic, so having sufficient insulation and adequate air sealing is important for your home’s performance.”

Improves Energy Efficiency

A well-insulated attic and one that is properly air sealed helps to protect a home from the outside elements by minimizing or eliminating air leaks, which helps to keep the home warm in winter and cool in summer. “This takes excess strain off your HVAC system and creates a more stable and comfortable indoor air temperature throughout the home, resulting in improved energy efficiency,” Wendy said. “The energy you save will be positively reflected on your home’s energy bill.”

Positive Environmental Impact

Saving energy in a home will also minimize a home’s carbon footprint. In other words, the home will emit a reduced amount of carbon dioxide – a greenhouse gas that has proven to be a significant contributor to air pollution. “Additionally, many types of insulation today are sustainably sourced as they are comprised of recycled materials,” she said. “Common examples include cellulose, fiberglass, and mineral wool insulation.”

Promotes Cleaner Indoor Air 

A properly insulated attic promotes a healthy indoor air environment because it helps to prevent outdoor air pollutants, such as dust, dirt, mold, smoke, radon, and various allergens from entering the home. Exposure to air pollutants can cause a myriad of short-term health effects, such as eye irritation, respiratory problems, headaches, tiredness, and dizziness. Extended exposure can lead to more serious, long-term effects.

Discourages Invasive Pests

Any time a roofing system is not completely sealed, there is a risk of pests invading a home. “If old insulation or a lack of insulation is to blame for the openings in your home’s roofing system, insects and other animals, such as wasps, ants, spiders, mice, rats, birds, chipmunks, and squirrels, will likely be the first to know, as these creatures have been known to locate and utilize these openings to enter an attic for nesting purposes,” said Wendy.

Protection Against Weather-Related Damage

A poorly insulated attic is no match against extreme weather. For instance, when an attic lacks proper insulation and air sealing, it becomes highly susceptible to moisture, which can lead to mold, wood rot, and extensive structural damage. Another concern is ice dams or icicles, which can form on roofing systems during winter months under the right conditions and cause major interior and exterior structural damage, requiring expensive repairs. “New insulation will effectively seal your home against Mother Nature as well as help maintain a consistent indoor air temperature year-round, greatly reducing the risk of weather-related damage,” Wendy said.

Extends Your Roof’s Life Expectancy

Since a well-insulated attic protects a home’s structural integrity and deters pests from entering, it inherently lengthens a roof’s life expectancy, which keeps the home safe and secure for years to come.

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