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The Importance of Insulation

What is insulation?

 Insulation is defined as a material or combination of materials which impede the flow of heat. The materials can be adapted to any size, shape or surface. The term ‘insulation’ refers to materials which provide substantial resistance to heat flow. When these materials are installed in the ceiling, walls, and floors of a building, heat flow into and out of the building is reduced, and the need for heating and cooling is minimized.

 Insulation is the most effective way to improve the energy efficiency of a home and building. Insulation of the building envelope helps keep heat in during the winter, but let’s heat out during summer to improve comfort and save energy. Insulating a home can save 45–55% of heating and cooling energy.

 Benefits of Insulation 

• Comfort is improved year around
• There is less need for heating and cooling
• Can help reduce noise

Scams with insulation

As a homeowner the only way you can truly have your insulation tested for effectiveness is having an audit performed or by having someone climb into your attic to visually access your insulation. First, you must identify the failures before determining what to install and second, it might be best just to fix the failures.  Plus adding more insulation on top of the current insulation which is not performing will only help you little. Another recommendation would be to ask the company to take pictures of their findings so you can see where improvements can be made.  Be careful as a lot of companies will sell you more than you need.  Most homes have plenty of insulation, but it’s poorly installed or has been knocked out of place. Reattaching it to the floors, ceilings and walls it’s meant to protect could save you a bundle of money – both on replacement product and on energy bills.