Why is the bathroom so hot when the bedroom is so cold? And where is that draft coming from?
If you've noticed signs like these, it's possible you need insulation replacement. But don't worry. We're going to show you how you can find out for sure if your insulation is causing you problems.
Specifically, we'll teach you the signs to watch out for, the average lifespans of insulation materials, and the causes of insulation degradation. All you need to know about insulation replacement is here in this guide. Read on to learn more.
Why Insulation Needs Replacing
The insulation of your home is the only thing that keeps the temperature outside the house from affecting the inside. Without it, your heating and cooling system would be useless.
And while your insulation can last for decades, it won't last forever. Here are some factors that reduce the lifespan of your insulation.
Time
Some insulation materials degrade faster than others, lasting a maximum of thirty years. Those that last longer will still degrade eventually.
Damage to the Insulation
If the insulation becomes damaged for any reason, it could lose its effectiveness or possibly degrade faster. For example, a heavy object could crash into the insulation, dislodging a portion of it. Over time, it could peel away even more.
Other Home Damage
Besides that, the other housing materials surrounding the insulation can degrade, too. For instance, roofing materials could get breached by the weather and start leaking. Moisture could then soak into certain types of insulation, damaging it or causing it to mould.
Pest Infestation
Pests can cause damage to any of your home's materials, including the insulation. Rats, for example, might gnaw into the insulation to build their nests.
Benefits of Insulation Replacement
Replacing your insulation when necessary saves you thousands of dollars off of your heating/cooling bill. Besides that, refreshing/upgrading the insulation before you sell your home gives you just cause to increase the listing price. From the buyer's perspective, a freshly insulated home is worth a lot more than one with 30-year-old insulation.
Also, poor insulation encourages mould growth. So, replacing the old with new insulation is good for the health of your household.
Average Lifespan of Insulation by Type
As mentioned, some types of insulation last longer than others. Here are the average lifespans of the two insulation materials Durham Insulation offers.
Fiberglass Insulation (Batt or Blown)
Theoretically, fiberglass insulation material can survive for 100 years. However, this is not how long it typically lasts once installed into your home.
You should be able to get at least 15 years of use out of it. After that amount of time, or if the insulation, walls, or roofing is damaged in any way, have it inspected. You'll likely need to replace it every 20-30 years.
Spray Foam Insulation (Polyurethane Foam)
Spray foam can also last 100 years and is extremely durable. But it, too, can be affected by the factors above. Still, you should be able to get 30 years or more out of it.
Signs of Insulation Deterioration
Here are some signs that your insulation needs replacement.
Certain rooms or the whole house are always hot in summer and cold in winter
Drafts in the house
Roof leaks or other home damage
Visible damage or dislodgement of insulation
Mould growth
Pest infestation
High energy bill
If you notice any of these signs, you should schedule an inspection for your insulation.
Schedule Your Insulation Replacement
Based on this information, does it sound like you need insulation replacement? If so, we can help. Contact Durham Insulation serving Bowmanville, Oshawa, Whitby, Ajax, and surrounding areas to schedule a free estimate and get the service you need.