9 Tips for Improving a Poorly Insulated Attic
Are you wondering how you can improve your poorly insulated attic?
This is a question that a lot of people are asking themselves. The more energy efficient your home is, the more important it becomes to increase the insulation. After all, a poorly insulated attic is likely to let in a lot of heat and disrupt even the best-sealed house’s airflow.
However, we know what it’s like; you’re likely too busy with life to spend hours remising up an attic. Fortunately, we’re here to help. With just a handful of household supplies, you won’t believe the results.
Let’s take a look.
1. Assess the Current Insulation
A thorough inspection of the attic must be conducted to see if any existing insulation is present, as well as to identify areas of improper installation. A home energy audit should be completed to accurately measure the insulation’s effectiveness. It’s also important to look for evidence of pests, rot, or other damage.
Once the assessment is complete, homeowners may choose to add to the attic, replace existing insulation, or both. To do this, materials such as foam boards, fiberglass roll, or blown-in are the most common. To increase the efficiency of the attic insulation, make sure to install an insulated entry door, air barriers, baffles, and an effective roof ventilation system.
2. Seal Air Leaks
Air leaks can result in air infiltration, affecting the temperature of the home and creating energy waste. This should be done before any additional insulation is added to the attic. Inspect the attic for any open spaces around the attic access door, light fixtures, baseboard heaters, and penetrations.
Weatherstripping can be used to seal any gaps around the attic access door. Foam sealant can be applied around the attic frame for larger holes and cracks. Specifically for attic penetrations, it may be necessary to use spray foam or to fill with fiberglass and seal with mesh.
3. Add Blown-In Insulation
Blown-in insulation is light, easy to install, and can be used to fill in cracks and hard-to-reach areas, making it an ideal choice for improving attics. Ensure you wear protective gear and follow all safety instructions. Also, use measuring tapes to check the depth of insulation, and use a moveable floor fan to check existing for air leakage.
To achieve the highest level of energy efficiency, aim for an attic insulation depth of at least 12 inches and add more insulation as needed. Once the blown-in has been added, cover any exposed poor insulation materials to protect them from moisture.
4. Insulate Attic Access Points
One of the most important steps is to properly insulate attic access points. These points include joists, framing, and vents. Make sure to use a vapor barrier, such as polyethylene sheeting. This will help prevent moisture from entering your attic. Additionally, seal any gaps around the attic access door or hatch.
With these key areas properly treated, you will be one step closer to having an energy-efficient attic. In addition to access points, make sure to check all walls and ceilings for any leakage.
5. Ventilate Properly
Proper ventilation should consist of a balanced intake and exhaust system in order to maintain good air circulation. Without proper ventilation, moisture can build up in the attic and cause mold growth, resulting in an unhealthy living environment. Intake vents should be placed in the soffit, gable eaves, or other unshaded areas, allowing humid air from the outside to enter.
The exhaust vents should be placed in the upper part of the roof, typically in the gable and along the ridge line, for the warm and moist air to travel up and vent out while keeping the cold outdoor air from entering.
6. Use Foam Insulation
Foam insulation can easily fill in any cracks and holes in the attic and can be used to insulation existing walls, ceilings, and even the roof. By properly sealing the attic using foam insulation, homeowners can prevent air from escaping or entering the home, thus preventing energy loss and, ultimately, minimizing energy bills.
In addition to using foam insulation on the walls and roof, homeowners should add additional insulation to the floor of the attic. This will ensure that the heat will stay inside your home and not escape through the roof.
7. Insulate Ductwork
Insulating ductwork in the attic is a must to ensure that conditioned air is not escaping through the exposed ducts. Start by removing any existing insulation that’s in poor condition and then ensnaring all ducts with an insulating wrap.
Cover all exposed ducts with R-6 rigid foam for maximum energy efficiency. People often overlook insulating ductwork in the attic, but it can be a game-changer in terms of energy efficiency and cost savings
8. Insulate Pipes
Insulating pipes in a poorly insulated attic is a great way to save energy. It helps keep the temperature consistent throughout the entire attic and stops drafts of cold air from flowing through the space. To properly insulate pipes in an attic, make sure that it is secured in all interior areas of the attic and that it is placed close to the pipes without actually touching them.
Caulk should be applied to seal any cracks or gaps that can leak air where the pipes meet walls and the flooring. This will help to prevent cold air leaks and keep the temperature in the attic consistent.
9. Consider Hiring a Professional
An attic installer can help to maximize the insulation, ensuring that it is correctly installed and sealed. They will also be able to check that the attic is properly ventilated.
They can inspect the attic for any potential problems and suggest ways to fix them. A professional can also identify any areas that may need additional insulation. Following the advice of a professional can make a huge difference when insulating an attic and can help to save energy and money in the long run.
Start Improving Your Poorly Insulated Attic Today
Improving a poorly insulated attic is achievable with patience and the right know-how. Knowing the specific needs of the attic, utilizing insulation materials, and air-sealing any gaps are all important steps in achieving a warmer attic. Take action now by working with an experienced contractor to increase the efficiency of your attic.
Ready to start tackling those major projects? Take a look at our improvement checklist to stay on top of things on our site.
