When you think of daydream about all the things you want to do to upgrade your home, you’re probably not envisioning rolls of fiberglass batt and piles of cellulose insulation. Let’s face it: insulation is not the sexiest of home improvement projects. Because of that, a lot of homeowners believe in some myths about home insulation.
Myth #1: The cost just isn’t worth it
FACT: Insulation may not be sexy but cutting down those monthly utility bills *is* sexy. By adding and/or replacing insulation in attics, crawlspaces, basements, and exterior walls, you can reduce your winter heating bills and your summer electric bills if you have A/C. What’s more exciting than extra cold, hard, cash?
FACT: Having sufficient insulation in your home actually improves your homes’ value. A recent study done by Remodeling Magazine shows that adding attic insulation has a higher return on an investment than any other type of project in the study – and realtors reported it increased the return on investment by 116%. Wow!
FACT: Utility programs, municipal programs, and federal agencies even often provide rebates and tax credits to help reduce the cost of insulation projects. So, not only can you save money each month your gas and electric bills, you can also get some great cost savings to make the improvements.
Myth #2: I won’t notice much difference
FACT: What makes our Michigan winters miserable even when we’re indoors? Drafty rooms, cold spots throughout the house, and chilly floors! Some people may think those are just symptoms of Michigan winters, but adding insulation to your home can actually help eliminate those pesky winter chills.
FACT: If you’ve ever had to deal with big, hanging icicles draped from your gutters, an insulation retrofit will make a ton of difference in your life. Icicles and ice dams occur when your attic has air leaks and not enough insulation. Adding insulation can help keep your heated air in your living spaces and prevent the melting and build up that causes ice dams and icicles.
FACT: You won’t just benefit from insulation in the winter months. Having sufficient insulation also helps keep your home cooler and more comfortable in the summer months as well, especially if you have air conditioning!
Myth #3: My current insulation is just fine
FACT: Most new homes built recently even have insufficient insulation. Current building codes have evolved over the decades and now require much higher insulation levels than before but those building code requirements are still below the optimal levels for energy efficiency and comfort.
FACT: As time passes, insulation degrades and its ability to keep cold air out becomes less and less. What may been plenty of insulation 10 years ago may be in need of a little extra boost now.
When in Doubt, Ask a Pro
There are some solid facts presented here to demonstrate the importance and impact of properly insulating your home. But how do you know if your insulation is adequate and doing its job?
It never hurts to ask an insulation professional for their opinion.