Insulating your attic is a smart strategy and could save money on energy bills, but is too much insulation possible? Blown insulation, also known as loose-fill insulation, is a type of thermal insulation used in buildings to improve energy efficiency and keep indoor comfort levels high. It comprises loose, lightweight insulating material, often fiberglass, cellulose, or mineral wool. This insulation material is installed by “blowing” or “spraying” it into the areas that require insulation, such as attics, walls, or floors.
Insulation materials come in many forms, from fiberglass batts and cellulose to spray foam insulation. Of all of the types available, blown-in insulation tends to be the more cost-effective option.
Too Much Heat
Insulation can be beneficial; it helps keep heat inside during winter and your cooling systems working more efficiently, but the roof and house must still breathe. Over-insulation may trap moisture inside, damaging water and becoming an ideal breeding ground for mildew and mold growth.
Homeowners who choose DIY insulation or buy bags of fiberglass from local home improvement stores often find the task challenging and require expert assistance to do it correctly. Blown insulation requires special machinery to reach every corner of an attic space – something most DIYers aren’t equipped to manage themselves.
Too Much Moisture
Insulation can be an excellent way to keep the heat inside while keeping cold drafts outside, saving energy costs for homeowners while alleviating strain on our nation’s power plants. Unfortunately, too much insulation in an attic or loft may lead to issues like reduced air circulation in your house and moisture buildup if left too long a time before replacing it with fresh insulation.
An attic without ventilation prevents warm air from the home from escaping, trapping moisture within ceilings and walls and providing the ideal environment for mildew growth and wood rot, creating a health hazard to those living within its walls.
Before installing insulation, ensure the attic is clear of boxes or storage items to facilitate a more straightforward and smoother installation process and save labor and material costs. Doing this ensures the appropriate insulation is installed, maximizing its insulating value.
Too Much Noise
Insulation helps block heat from escaping, cutting energy costs in both summer and winter. Furthermore, insulation reduces noise pollution in homes, making them quieter and more relaxing environments for inhabitants.
Blown insulation for attics may be made of either cellulose or fiberglass and comes in chunks that contractors blow into the attic to fill spaces that traditional rolled batting insulation cannot reach. Blown insulation offers an eco-friendly option and could be ideal for new home builders, remodelers, and homeowners looking to save money and live comfortably.
Over-insulating your attic can be problematic in several ways. Too much insulation may restrict airflow into your attic and trap moisture, leading to mold or mildew issues in the home. Limiting it all together can obstruct proper roof ventilation systems – two critical requirements for suitable attic and roof system health. To avoid over-insulating your attic, consult a local insulation expert; they can determine the appropriate amount based on climate, thermal performance, and home size requirements.
Too Much Blown Insulation Can Cause Dust
Too much insulation will create a thick layer that prevents airflow through your attic, leading to poor indoor air quality. This may cause your attic to suffocate and lead to reduced air quality in your home.
Cellulose insulation attic spaces may contain too much dust for comfort, making breathing it in unpleasant. Therefore, professional installation and regular maintenance cleaning are highly recommended for blown insulation.
Before getting started, ensure that the attic is accessible from storage items and boxes, and have it inspected by an attic specialist to check for water leaks or signs of moisture damage. When your attic has been cleared out and reviewed by a professional, blown insulation can be added layer by layer; start with an outline of your attic before targeting specific sections to focus on the most significant gaps.
Source: www.forbes.com