The insulation in your attic is an often-overlooked area for home improvement. Many people don’t use their attics, but even if you do, your insulation probably isn’t visible. Attic insulation is necessary, however, to keep your home comfortable and your energy bills affordable. Here, New Jersey Siding and Windows, Inc. shares four important signs that it’s time for an insulated attic upgrade.
Animals and Pests
Small animals just love to get into your attic insulation. It’s warm, protected from predators and the elements, and a soft and fluffy spot to create a nest. Even a small gap into a roof can become a doorway for critters like bats, mice, raccoons, squirrels, or possums. Once inside your attic and crawl spaces, these animals can damage your insulation by tearing it up and burrowing into it. They also can cause foul odors.
If you notice a lot of small creatures outside your home, check your attic and crawlspaces for bad smells, droppings, or torn insulation. Any sign of intruders means it’s time to replace your damaged insulation and fill in the holes used by animals to get in.
Water Damage
Water can sneak in through the same holes that animals do. Heavy rains, flooding, and snowfall all put a strain on your roof and test its strength. If there are any gaps at all, water will sneak in and can also lead to mold, as an enclosed attic space has no way to dry out. If you notice leaks, water stains, or signs of mold, you might want to invest in replacement insulation.
Temperature Regulation
The main role of insulation is to regulate the temperature inside your house. As insulation degrades over time, it gets worse at its job. You might start noticing that rooms in your home don’t stay at a consistent temperature. If this is true, then some new insulation is in order. Not only does this make the living space uncomfortable, but they also cost you money with higher energy bills to heat your home – making an insulation upgrade worth the investment.
Unwanted Noise
Insulation keeps out noise, as well as pests and cold air. Loud children, busy roads, overhead airplanes, or a basement workshop can all disturb the peace of your home. If your home isn’t as quiet as you would like, consider upgrading your insulation. Doing so will keep the noise where it belongs and ensure your quiet places stay free of loud distractions.
Upgrade Your Attic Insulation Now
If any of these telltale signs sound familiar to you, it’s time for an insulated attic upgrade. Brand-new insulation does a lot to keep your home warm, dry, soundproof, and free of pests. At New Jersey Siding & Windows, Inc., we can inspect your attic for damage and install fresh insulation. To learn more about when to replace, contact us by calling 973-895-1113.