It’s not often I am in my home and think…I wonder if I need to replace my insulation?

However, when it’s too cold or too hot I sure do notice how uncomfortable it is! Insulation removal or replacement is necessary if you are dealing with one of the five scenarios below. And, do you know that your Home Owner’s Insurance may cover new insulation in some instances? Additionally, if you have purchased American Home Shield, they too may reimburse or cover certain repairs. Summit Environmental Solutions will be happy to provide you with a free inspection and estimate for your new insulation. We have financing available as well to ease the burden of a home repair.

Here are the FIVE Reasons:

Reason 1: Critters and pests

Your home should be a place of refuge, but some pests take advantage of this…and I am not referring to the in-laws!  If you’ve noticed critters such as raccoons, squirrels, mice, skunks, or opossums around the exterior of your home, it may be a good idea to check your attic, basement, and crawlspaces for any infestations. Rodents and insects are skilled at finding a way into your home through even the smallest of openings such as holes in the roof or vents. Check for a disturbance in the insulation, organic materials for nesting, and droppings.

If you find any signs of pests in your attic, basement, or crawl spaces, you will want to replace insulation after repairing any damage done by the critters. This will help prevent further infestation, and unpleasant smells due to any waste left by the pests, in the future. Another reason to be sure the attic is well-insulated is that it will help seal those openings (the same ones jacking up your energy bill) critters use to enter. At Summit, we have an Energy Expert who can perform an Energy Check-Up complimentary, or an Energy Audit for only $295.

Reason 2: Leaky roof and water damage

Just like critters can sneak in through the smallest of holes, so can water. Heavy rains or flooding can compromise the walls and roof of your home. With water coming in, and no way to dry out, there’s a good chance that you’ll have a mold, mildew, or bacteria problems on your hands. Attics, walls, and basements are all susceptible to this kind of water damage.

Some types of insulation are more or less susceptible to mold growth than others. Fiberglass is a non-biodegradable material and is resistant to mold growth. Cellulose-based insulation, made of paper materials, is the ideal food source for mold if it becomes wet. Even fiberglass can have a paper backing that would serve as a buffet for mold.

Other ways to make sure your home’s moisture is under control include air sealing, proper ventilation, and insulation to prevent condensation or around pipes to keep them from freezing and bursting. There are several ways of knowing if your home needs Air Sealing. ie: Windows that sweat, a dark ring around your carpet along the baseboards, a room that you cannot keep warm or cool, and many others. If you have any of these tell-tale signs, give Summit a call and we will come out and do a complimentary Energy Home Check-Up and provide you with a free estimate to repair these issues. Plus, it will save you hundreds of dollars on your monthly heating bills.

Reason 3: Crumbly and old

If you’ve noticed inconsistent temperatures in your home, old insulation may be to blame. Over time, you may notice that your insulation begin to lose some of its form, and may crumble or settle. Put on a glove and feel your attic insulation. If you think it still has its elasticity and can hold a shape, that’s great. If it feels crumbly, it’s time to look at replacing it.

There are multiple other ways to see if your insulation is insufficient or losing its effect. If you have an older home, consider the simple touch test. The interior ceilings, walls and floors in your home shouldn’t feel damp or cold. When drywall and paneling inside a home feels damp or cold, this means that there is not enough insulation in the walls.

Alternatively, when touching an exterior wall from outside, it should feel cold because insulation is keeping warm air inside the home. The next time you go out to get the mail, simply touch the exterior walls of your home to see how much heat you might be losing. Whether it’s replacing insulation or simply adding more as a retrofit, you have plenty of options.

Reason 4: Drafts everywhere

Whether your problem area is around a doorway, window, or in the attic, drafts are a huge problem. Though some small drafts can be eliminated with some creative caulking, you probably need some extra insulation in those problem areas too. You may think drafts are just inconvenient, but they can cost you big bucks over time.

One of the best solutions we have for drafty areas is spray foam insulation. It’s a great option because it can get down deep into those cracks and crevices and it even seals while it insulates. It’s a great option if you’re looking for a cost-effective way to start saving on your energy bill long after your blown-in insulation has settled. We can insulate any of your problem areas including basement ceilings, wall spaces, and attic floors.

Reason 5: Noise control

Do you ever stop and realize just how much noise your family makes? Kids want to play with loud toys while parents try to watch a quiet show. It happens, and it probably leads to some conflict. Sound-proofing insulation is your easiest solution.

In addition to reducing noise pollution from construction and trains outside, we can add sound-proofing insulation to home movie theaters, playroom, nurseries, and home offices. Soundproofing insulation will improve your quality of life by reducing noise pollution inside. We can add this either during the construction or renovation of your home or we can easily retrofit existing residences. No matter what your home is like, you can benefit from the decrease in noise and increase in peace.

If you find that any of these apply to you, please call Summit Environmental Solutions to provide a free estimate to get you on the way to a clean and healthy home!