Your attic can be a great place to “store stuff.” But it plays a much more important role than that. It also shields the rest of your house from extreme cold and extreme heat, as well as humidity. But that’s only if it is properly insulated. And according to the North American Insulation Manufacturers Association, 90% of single family homes are not adequately insulated. Is yours? Here are a few benefits of proper insulation.
Improved Health
Insufficient attic insulation makes it easier for outdoor pollutants such as mildew, dust, mold and dirt to enter your home. Over time, these toxins will impact the quality of the air inside your home. This can cause discomfort to even healthy people, not to mention people with respiratory illnesses such as asthma.
Safer Home Structure
A poorly insulated attic can exacerbate damage to your home due to increased condensation caused by excessive heat and moisture. Here is what it can prevent:
- Water vapor seepage that can erode your walls
- Heat buildup in the attic that can cause roof shingles to swell and crack
- Ice dams forming on your roof
Lower Utility Bills
Heating and cooling account for up to 70% of the energy used in a typical American home. According to the Environmental Protection Agency, you can save up to 15% on heating and cooling energy costs if your home is properly insulated. That translates into hundreds of dollars a year or more. Of course, this can vary widely based on your family’s demand for energy, your home’s design and your HVAC system.
Greater Comfort
A poorly insulated attic can also cause more extreme temperatures. With adequate insulation, there will be less fluctuation in temperatures, making it easier for you to be comfortable in your home.
Extends HVAC Life
Poor insulation makes your heating and cooling system work harder. With a properly insulated attic, it does not have to work as hard, thus extending the life of the system.
Remove “Stuff”
When you are getting your attic ready for new insulation, it’s a great opportunity to get rid of some of the “stuff” you’ve accumulated in your attic space.
Contact Ravinia Plumbing, Sewer, Heating & Electric about Our Quality Home Services
Although Ravinia Plumbing doesn’t provide insulation installation services, we do offer a full range of heating, cooling and indoor air quality services for your home or business. We’ve been in business since 1928, and we’ve made a name for ourselves as one of the most trusted and reliable plumbing, sewer, heating and air conditioning, and electrical companies in Chicagoland. Visit Ravinia Plumbing today to learn more, or check out our careers page to view our current openings.