Have you ever replaced your home’s insulation? Insulation is an essential element of a home. It is also an item that you may not consider replacing because it is not frequently required. This article will discuss the benefits of replacing old insulation as well as how to determine if you need to replace your insulation.

How can I determine if my insulation requires replacement?

There are several indications that it may be time to replace your home’s insulation. Here are several of the leading causes:

The temperature varies throughout your residence. In the winter, a poorly insulated home will have cold spots, and in the summer, it will be overly warm.

You observe an increase in drafts in your home. As insulation ages, you may begin to notice drafty areas of your home that contribute to the aforementioned uneven temperatures.

You have a problem with pests and rodents in your home. Not only could these creatures be reproducing and infesting your home, but they could also be deteriorating and destroying your insulation.

Members of the household suffer from worsening allergies. As insulation ages, it can accumulate allergens and dust. This makes allergies worse, and some individuals even become ill from aging insulation.

Higher energy bills. As insulation quality declines, it is likely that you will need to pay more to maintain the desired temperature in your home.

Although these are common indications that it is time to replace your home’s insulation, it is best to conduct a home energy audit before replacing your insulation. The energy audit will help you determine what improvements you can make to make your home cozier.

What is the average lifespan of residential insulation?

Different types of insulation are advantageous for a variety of reasons. Additionally, they have distinct lifespans. Knowing the type of insulation in your home and its average lifespan can help you determine whether or not it is time to replace it. The most prevalent types of insulation have the following average lifetimes:

• Spray Foam Insulation: A minimum of eighty years

Since it does not absorb moisture, closed-cell spray foam is the most damage-resistant material.

• Insulation made from cellulose: 20 to 30 years

The most eco-friendly form of insulation is cellulose, which is treated with a natural insect repellent.

• Insulation made of fiberglass: 15 to 30 years

Fiberglass insulation is the most susceptible to damage from moisture and mold, as well as the most likely to retain dust and allergens, requiring replacement as early as 15 years.

What advantages does replacing old insulation offer?

The most significant advantage of replacing insulation is a more comfortable home. To have a cleaner and healthier home, it is also beneficial to replace your insulation. Learn more about the benefits associated with replacing your insulation.

Increase the comfort of your home.

New insulation will help maintain a constant temperature in your home throughout the year. It will also help eliminate drafty areas that cause some rooms to be hotter or colder than others.

Reduce the strain on the HVAC system.

Similarly to enhancing the comfort of your home, insulation replacement can reduce the wear and tear on your HVAC system. If you eliminate inconsistencies in temperature throughout your home, your HVAC system will not have to work as hard to maintain a comfortable temperature.

Enhance the indoor air quality.

Over time, allergens, dust, and other contaminants can become trapped in old insulation. Sadly, there is no simple way to remove these from your insulation. Thankfully, it takes years to accumulate enough material for replacement.

Protect your dwelling from outdoor pests.

Replacing your old insulation can prevent rodents and small animals from entering your home, where they were previously able to do so.

Should old insulation be removed prior to installing new insulation?

New insulation can be installed over old insulation. Although it is possible, it may not be the best solution.

If your old insulation has been damaged by moisture, water, or mold, it is best to remove it before installing new insulation.

Want to determine if your home requires new insulation? Contact MGT Insulation immediately to begin your energy audit. Our team will assist you in determining whether replacing your old insulation will improve the comfort of your home.