Attic Insulation And Air Sealing

Increasing attic insulation is a fairly complicated diy project 1 3 days or a full weekend but is completely doable if you have the right materials and information.

Attic insulation and air sealing.

Gaps in the attic or between the lower floors and the attic will let heated or cooled air escape to the great unconditioned outdoors making any insulation you add essentially useless. Home comfort problems often start in the attic where poor insulation and numerous air leaks create problems for your heating and cooling system and make your home uncomfortable. Before you think about heading into your attic to seal air leaks and add insulation here are the things you will need first. The number one prep step.

When you re done sealing your attic bypasses push the insulation back into place with an old broom handle or stick as you back out of the attic. If you are not a do it yourself type of person there are plenty of contractors who are able to seal your attic. Find a diagram of common air leaks here here s a quick primer on fixing draft prone spots. Most people just add insulation to their attic this will not stop the escaping warm air.

Without air sealing your attic you are allowing warm air to escape from your home carrying with it your hard earned winter heating money. Air seal your attic for energy savings. The attic is usually where you can find some of the largest opportunities to save energy in your home. When your attic lacks the proper attic insulation and air sealing the effects on your home s comfort and energy efficiency are significant.

One of the most cost effective ways to improve energy efficiency and comfort is by insulating and air sealing your home. Attic insulation and air sealing energy saving calculator learn how insulation and air sealing can save you energy and money by using our product payback tools below. Then finish up by sealing the access hatch with self sticking foam weatherstrip photos 10 and 11. Combined with attic insulation air sealing can help to alleviate the formation of dangerous ice dams in the winter.

You need to insulate the attic even if you can t easily access it because it s a huge risk for air leaks and potential heat loss. The attic is prone to holes and cracks at its access points. By air sealing in your attic you can stop many major air leaks and help to maintain the desired temperature throughout your home. An attic that doesn t meet insulation standards will lead to high heating and cooling costs uncomfortable rooms and uneven temperatures throughout your home.

Proper air sealing not only conserves energy and saves you money but also makes home improvements like new windows and insulation more effective.