When you’re looking into attic insulation there are a couple of things that you’re going to want to account for. Particularly if you want the insulation to actually serve its purpose. This is a real issue, many people will just book an installation service without necessarily exploring the types of attic insulation that are available. In the worst case scenario the company that provides the service will do a subpar job counting on the fact that you won’t be taking the time to look at the end result. Most people don’t really use their attics all that much.
The main types of attic insulation include fiberglass based options. There are a couple of these usually available. They tend to come in sheets if you will, and they are a favorite of the do it yourself enthusiasts. Technically you can go out and buy a couple of insulation sheets and apply them to the attic yourself. If you want to take a more technical approach if you will, spray foam insulation applied by professionals may just be the way to go. There’s also cellulose insulation, another variety that is rather popular. As can be expected each of these options come with their own pros and cons. It’s all about finding the right option for you.
Fiberglass Options Why They Work Well In Attics
Fiberglass options could work very well in attics because they are not as flammable as the spray foam option. A lot of attics will have the heating or even large air conditioning and cooling systems housed there. In general it’s not uncommon therefore for temperatures to get rather high in those particular spots. In these areas then, the foam may not hold up as well as some of these sheets of the more traditional fiberglass option.
Another major benefit that you’re going to have is that you could potentially do some of the work yourself with this type of insulation. The installation process seems simple enough. All you have to do is cover the framework with the insulation material. Even though it could seem very simple if you’re not someone who is overly hands on about these types of things it may just be best to have the professionals put in the work. Plus, they may be able to point you in the right direction when it comes to exactly what type of insulation you need. As we mentioned there are a couple of options that may seem rather similar to an untrained eye.
Sprayfoam Insulation – Should You Explore This Option?
The short answer to this question is yes. Spray Foam insulation isn’t just the practical option that can be applied potentially much quicker than some of the other options that are going to be on the table. It’s also the option that is known for holding up better against moisture. That’s why it’s typically a favorite to use in crawl spaces and basements. Most of the fiberglass insulation options on the other hand tend to crack, and become brittle with exposure to moisture over time. Now, of course you want to limit the amount of moisture that is bleeding into the house. Good insulation though could buy you some time.
Speaking about buying time this is going to be the “easiest” type of insulation to apply. Yet, it’s mainly only applied by professionals. Even though it seems like anyone can take the sprayer and put it on the way that the foam is kept has to be done the right way and you can just put it on any old backpack sprayer and expect positive results. Professionals though are typically able to apply this type of insulation in what we can certainly consider a short amount of time.
There Should Be No Shame In Using Different Types of Insulation Around The House
This is a topic that we’ve essentially danced around the entire article. The reason why there are different types of insulation is that each option features different characteristics. With attics maybe the more traditional fiberglass options are going to work best. It really depends though on where you live and what type of equipment you have in your attic or not. In some homes you just can’t go in and apply spray foam insulation because you feel it’s easier to do just that. That could be completely detrimental to the building and dangerous overall.
Now, it’s true that in other cases your attic may not get hot at all. Maybe it’s a damp cold place. If that’s the case then spray foam insulation should certainly be an option that is on the table. That’s why it’s so important to bring in a company or at least an independent contractor with experience in this field. It’s not just about looking for the most convenient option out there. There are different options out there for a reason. It’s super important to make sure that you pick the right one for each part of the home or building.
Proper Prep Work Is Going To Be Half the Battle
We’ve mentioned that deciding what type of insulation you’re going to use in the attic is key to long term success. Also though, you want to make sure that whoever is going to help you with the project knows how to prep the area accordingly. The worst jobs are the ones where people don’t put in the time to adjust to the existing situation to make sure that whatever you want to put in is going to be able to stick accordingly. So if there’s existing insulation in the area you’re going to want to make sure that it’s properly removed to be able to add new insulation materials. If not everything will just be a big blog of insulation materials that won’t really protect you from anything.
That’s really why it’s so important to make sure that if you are going to bring a professional in, they are part of a company that knows how to get the job done. If you’re going to try your hand at this type of work on your own, know that it’s not as easy as it may look. Check out how our team can help.
