If you have lived in your home for many years, you could wonder how often you should replace your attic insulation. Your attic insulation is vital in keeping your home cool during summer and hot during the winter months. Getting your attic insulation installed by companies like Stellrr Insulation & Spray Foam can help you save on energy bills and regulate the temperature in your home. They do their best to ensure home comfort & energy efficiency here at Stellrr Insulation & Spray Foam, providing top-quality service to all their clients. According to them, how long your insulation will last depends on the type of insulation used and several other factors, like weather conditions, the age of your home, and other external factors. Listed below are the types of attic insulations and how long they last:
Spray Foam Insulation
Spray foam insulation is one of the most effective, durable, and reliable types of insulation. If maintained well, it can last a lifetime or longer. Since it doesn’t hold moisture and is mold resistant, it doesn’t move around and remains in one place unless it is physically moved. Most of the time, people who install spray foam insulation don’t have to replace it at all. However, you must ensure external factors like extreme weather, construction, and critters don’t compromise the insulation. If you notice signs of insulation deterioration due to these factors, you must replace or repair it.
Fiberglass Insulation
Fiberglass insulation is both cost-effective and can last for several years, making it a popular choice among homeowners. It typically lasts between 80 and 100 years unless someone or something damages it. However, if the insulation was installed in batts, it will fall from the fiberglass batts after 15 to 20 years.
Cellulose Insulation
Cellulose insulation is eco-friendly and can block air more effectively than a few other types of insulation. Studies have also shown that this insulation can help protect your home against a fire. However, it can degrade over time because it is primarily made of recycled materials. The typical lifespan of cellulose insulation is between 20 and 30 years. The degradation of the material may begin about 15 years after installation.
Mineral Wool Insulation
Mineral wool insulation is comparatively more durable than other forms of insulation. As a result, it can last for many decades before requiring replacement. However, its lifespan will depend on the product used to make it, like slag wool, glass wool, or rock wool.
Factors that Affect Your Insulation’s Lifespan
No matter what type of insulation you have, it is bound to get old and experience wear and tear. In addition, several factors can contribute to its deterioration. Below are factors that can significantly reduce the lifespan of your insulation:
- Water damage to your roof
- Mold growth on the insulation
- Punctures to the insulation due to a storm or because of an animal.
- Dirt and dust on the insulation
- A fire or severe weather event
- Rodent and other pest infestation
- Poor ventilation in your attic
- Extreme temperatures
Signs That Your Attic Insulation Needs Replacement
If you suspect your attic insulation has an issue but are not sure whether you must replace it, then below are signs to help you decide:
- Your house experiences uneven temperatures.
- You struggle to get your home to the right temperature and maintain it. It is either too hot or too cold always
- Your entire house feels drafty
- Your energy bills are too high
- You or your family members suffer from frequent allergies
- You have frequent leaks, condensation, and other moisture problems
- You have a pest and rodent infestation in your home
- Your insulation looks wet and thin and seems to be breaking down or falling
How Often Should You Check Your Attic Insulation?
If your attic insulation is in good shape, it will regulate your home’s temperature in the summer and winter. It will also minimize unwanted noise and drafts. Typically, you should check your attic insulation every five to ten years to ensure it is in good condition. If your area experiences high humidity and extreme temperatures, you may have to check your insulation often, as there are higher chances of it breaking down quickly.
Should You Remove Your Old Attic Insulation Before Adding a New One?
You must remove your old attic insulation before installing a new one. The old insulation may have harmful chemicals and toxins that can potentially damage the new insulation. Also, if the insulation got damaged due to excess moisture or mold growth, then that could spread into the new insulation as well. In addition, removing the older insulation will help your new insulation material get installed properly.
If you notice high energy bills and feel like your insulation could have an issue, contact a professional insulation installation company to come and inspect it. Doing so will help you catch any underlying issues early and save you a considerable amount of money in the future.
