Home insulation is designed to keep heat (thermal energy) where it’s supposed to be.  That means your home maintains it’s heat in the winter and it keeps the summer heat outside making it easier to maintain the cool A/C.  The proper type and level of insulation results in more consistent and comfortable temperatures throughout the house, no matter the time of year. While most insulation is designed to last a lifetime, some situations can cause it to lose its effectiveness, making replacement necessary. Here are a few of the more common reasons why insulation may need to be replaced and the signs to look for.

Why You Might Need New Insulation

Over time, some insulation may start to settle; as it does, it becomes more and more compacted. Settling can occur from traffic in the attic if animal intrusion has occurred or if service people are up there.  Once settled, this means that it cannot provide the airy, protective layer it once did. If this occurs in your home, you typically only need to add another layer instead of replacing it entirely.

If you have a water leak, mold and mildew can become trapped in insulation fibers. The dampness, combined with the dark interior spaces where insulation is usually located, makes the perfect breeding ground for mold to proliferate. This fungus can present serious health risks, so if water has leaked into your insulation, replace as much of it as possible.

In some situations, older home insulation naturally decays or isn’t thick enough to meet the climate demands of the current homeowners. Updating your insulation ensures the highest levels of energy efficiency and comfort for your home.

How to Tell It’s Time for Replacement

A home usually gives off some red flags if there are insulation issues, the most noticeable of which is a fluctuating indoor temperature. If, for instance, it becomes harder and harder to maintain a consistent climate inside the home, insulation may be to blame.

You may find yourself using the air conditioner or furnace more often, which results in higher utility bills. Water-damaged or mold-infested insulation gives off a damp, musty, or stale odor. Once insulation begins to break down, there may be an increase in drafts throughout the home.

When you need home insulation installation or replacement, trust the professionals at All Season Insulation LLC. Their insulation contractors offer property owners throughout northern Kentucky and Cincinnati and Dayton, OH, a variety of Owens Corning® solutions for attics, basements, walls, and floors to make your home more comfortable and reduce heating and cooling costs. Call (513) 316-7622 to request an estimate, or visit their website to explore their services.