Does insulation go bad? How long does insulation last? What should I do if my insulation needs repair or replacement? The answers to these questions depend on many factors only an experienced professional can evaluate.
Considering insulation’s complicated nature, may we humbly recommend that you leave replacing insulation to Attic Projects. By opting to go with our team of attic insulation repair and removal experts, you’re guaranteed safe, energy-efficient, well-maintained attic insulation for your home. We are committed to providing peace of mind through transparency, efficiency, and professionalism.
Importance of Attic Insulation Removal
Instead of putting it off and wondering how insulation lasts in your attic, opt to have it checked and removed by professionals. Doing so will nip problems in the bud before they get out of hand.
If your insulation has damage or weak points, it’s critical for your health to schedule a professional removal. Certain insulation materials like fiberglass are harmful to your lungs and skin. The Attic Projects team knows how to handle these materials so you and your family stay safe.
Types of Home Insulation
There are several types of installation. Each works to keep your home’s heat flow as efficient as possible.
The first type of insulation is Fiberglass Insulation. Fiberglass is affordable and easy to install. Furthermore, it’s resistant to moisture, making it an excellent choice for attics and other spaces. However, fiberglass insulation replacement requires experts since it cannot touch your skin and is a dangerous respiratory irritant.
Another kind of insulation is Polyurethane Spray-in Foam Insulation. As the name implies, you spray this insulation into areas in which it is needed. The spray works especially well for hard-to-reach areas. The foam hardens after you spray it, making it a particularly good choice for crawl spaces because of its high resistance to mold. It’s also ideal for attics, as the foam is highly durable.
The last two types are mineral wool insulation and cellulose. Mineral Wool is fire-resistant and moisture-proof. This insulation material is heavy compared to fiberglass, but it’s more costly and has about the same lifespan.
Cellulose Insulation is incredibly eco-friendly as it contains recycled materials. Installing cellulose is accomplishable via loose-filling it into the desired area, or it may be “blown in.” However, note that this option has a fast degradation rate.
No matter the type, every home needs insulation. Be sure to speak with a team member to evaluate which insulation is best for your needs.
Helpful Reading: Wall Insulation Installation
Average Lifespan of Attic Insulation
The average lifespan of any insulation is around ten years. However, the lifespan depends on the material of the insulation and maintenance levels.
Typically, fiberglass insulation needs checking around year ten for any potentially weakened areas. Still, fiberglass can last around 80 years with proper maintenance.
Polyurethane spray lasts up to 100 years without much maintenance. Mineral wool insulation’s average lifespan is similar to fiberglass at around 80 years, but cellulose falls short in its lifespan of 20 years.
Factors That Compromise the Lifespan of Insulation
Plenty of factors may compromise the longevity of your insulation. Common problems leading to early attic insulation replacement include high humidity levels, mold and mildew growth, fires and smoke residue, water damage and flooding, excessive dust, and inclement weather.
For example, your insulation will not stand the test of time if you frequently experience water damming in a vulnerable area like the attic. This excess moisture leads to high humidity levels, creating the ideal conditions for mold and mildew growth, which weakens the insulation and shortens the overall lifespan.
Signs That Your Home Insulation Needs To Be Replaced
Maybe you’re on the fence about when to replace attic insulation, and you’re waiting for a specific sign. The good news is there are plenty of critical signs to look out for that signal the need for attention. Poor heating is one of the most common signs you should replace your insulation. If you notice that your home’s thermostat is running, but the interior temperature feels off, it might be due to your insulation.
Erratic temperatures, drafts, and increasingly expensive utility bills are all tell-tale signs something isn’t right. Other important cues include increased pests or visibly wet, thin, or sagging attic insulation.
Dangers of Bad Insulation
Unfortunately, attic insulation is a breeding ground for plenty of health problems. This wet, old insulation may create mildew, mold, and bacteria. With the attic insulation constantly sitting directly above the home, this old insulation worsens sinus problems, allergies, and respiratory illness.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) – Attic Insulation Removal/Replacement
Are you still wondering when to replace the insulation? Maybe you have other questions about exactly how often to replace your insulation. Please continue reading below for some of the answers to our most frequently asked questions.
How Often Should Attic Insulation Be Replaced?
It’s hard to say exactly how often attic insulation needs replacing since every home and environment is different.
Nonetheless, it’s a good idea to opt for regular attic maintenance to catch insulation problems before they get out of hand, so we recommend calling in an expert member of our team to check for replacement every year.
Is Replacing Attic Insulation Worth it?
You might be wondering, does insulation need to be replaced, is it worth it, and is it necessary for your home and health? The answer is yes. Replacing your attic’s insulation leads to a more energy-efficient home, better heating and cooling, and a safer space for you and your loved ones. All of these reasons make attic insulation replacement more than worth it.
Conclusion
Instead of wondering how long insulation lasts, call the experts at Attic Projects to check your attic today. One of our team members will ensure a thorough inspection of your insulated spaces to guarantee a well-functioning, maintained, and safely insulated home.
Take care of your home today. Contact Attic Projects or fill out our online form to book your free inspection!
