If you live in an older home, you may be dealing with high energy bills, drafts, and uneven temperatures throughout your home. The solution to these problems is retrofitting your home with insulation. Insulation can make a significant difference in the energy efficiency and comfort of older homes.
In this blog, we will discuss ten benefits of retrofitting insulation in older homes and seven things you need to know while retrofitting your home for energy savings. Keep reading!
10 Major Benefits of Retrofitting Older Homes
Insulating your older homes offers the following benefits to you:
1. Lower Energy Bills
One of the primary benefits of retrofitting insulation in an older home is lower energy bills. Insulation keeps heat inside during the winter and outside during the summer, which reduces the need for heating and cooling systems to work overtime.
2. Improved Comfort
Insulation creates a thermal barrier that reduces temperature fluctuations and drafts in your home, leading to improved comfort. Your home will be more comfortable throughout the year, and you will no longer have to deal with cold spots or hot zones.
3. Increased Home Value
Retrofitting insulation in an older home can increase its value. If you plan on selling your home in the future, having energy-efficient features like insulation can be a selling point for potential buyers.
4. Noise Reduction
Insulation also acts as a sound barrier, reducing noise levels from the outside and between rooms inside the home. This can be particularly beneficial if you live in a busy area or have noisy neighbors.
5. Health Benefits
Properly installed insulation can improve indoor air quality by reducing the amount of outside air that enters your home. This can help to reduce allergens and pollutants, leading to better health for you and your family.
6. Environmental Benefits
Reducing your home’s energy consumption through insulation also has environmental benefits. You will be reducing your carbon footprint by using less energy to heat and cool your home.
7. Improved Moisture Control
Insulation can help to prevent moisture from accumulating in your home, reducing the risk of mold and mildew growth. This can help to keep your home healthier and more comfortable.
8. Long-Term Savings
Retrofitting insulation in an older home may require an upfront investment, but it can result in long-term savings. The energy savings and increased home value can offset the cost of the installation over time.
9. Comfortable Indoor Temperatures
Retrofitting insulation in an older home can lead to more consistent indoor temperatures, eliminating the need for frequent adjustments to heating and cooling systems. This can lead to a living environment that is more comfortable.
10. Increased Structural Integrity
Insulation can also help to preserve the structural integrity of an older home by reducing the risk of moisture damage and mold growth. This can help to extend the lifespan of your home.
7 Things You Need to Know While Retrofitting Older Homes
The following seven things, you should know while planning for retrofitting your older homes with insulation:
1. Consider the Age of the Home
When retrofitting an older home, it is important to consider the age of the home. Older homes may have different types of construction and may require specialized methods for insulation installation. For example, homes built before 1940 may have knob-and-tube wiring, which can complicate the installation process.
2. Choose the Right Type of Insulation
There are many types of insulation available, including fiberglass, cellulose, spray foam, and more. The type of insulation that is right for your home depends on factors such as your budget, the climate in your area, and the condition of your home. Consulting with an insulation professional can help you choose the right type of insulation.
3. Insulate the Attic
One of the most important areas to insulate in an older home is the attic. Insulating the attic can help prevent heat from escaping through the roof, which can reduce energy costs and improve home comfort. Adding insulation to the attic is typically a straightforward process that can be completed by an insulation professional.
4. Insulate Exterior Walls
Another important area to insulate in an older home is the exterior walls. Older homes may have little to no insulation in the walls, which can lead to energy loss and reduced home comfort. Insulating the exterior walls can help improve energy efficiency and comfort.
5. Seal Air Leaks
Air leaks can cause energy loss and reduce home comfort. When retrofitting an older home, it is important to seal air leaks in areas such as windows, doors, and around pipes and ducts. An insulation professional can conduct an air-sealing assessment to identify areas that need sealing.
6. Consider Vapor Barriers
Vapor barriers can help prevent moisture from entering the home and can improve indoor air quality. When retrofitting an older home, it is important to consider the use of vapor barriers in areas such as the attic and crawl space. Consulting with an insulation professional can help you determine if a vapor barrier is right for your home.
7. Hire a Professional Insulation Company
Retrofitting an older home for energy savings requires specialized knowledge and expertise. Hiring a professional insulation company can ensure that the job is done correctly and can help you maximize energy savings and home comfort. When choosing an insulation company, be sure to choose one with experience working on older homes and a reputation for quality workmanship.
In conclusion, retrofitting insulation in an older home can provide numerous benefits, including lower energy bills, improved comfort, increased home value, and environmental benefits. Insulation companies offer a range of insulation services, including retrofitting insulation for older homes.
If you live in Virginia Beach, there are several insulation services in Virginia Beach that can help you achieve energy savings and improved comfort in your older home. Contact a professional insulation company to learn more about retrofitting insulation in your older home and start enjoying the benefits today.
