How often should insulation be replaced?

Most types of insulation actually last for a long period of time, between 80 to 100 years. But that is only the case if the insulation has been in perfect conditions for its lifespan. So how do you know when your insulation should be replaced? The following signs could mean your insulation has become inadequate and needs replacing.

Indoor Drafts

When the insulation in your attic isn’t sufficient enough to block out outdoor temperatures, the cold temperatures quickly seep in. If you are noticing cold air going through your home after you’ve closed all the windows and doors, then it is most likely a problem with your insulation. Check out your attic to see if there is damage to the insulation there or if it is wearing away.

Changing Indoor Temperatures

Sometimes the insulation in the attic or crawlspaces shifts and causes cold air to leak into your home. Changing temperatures in your home are a surefire sign of this problem. If you notice that your home is warm one minute and cold the next, then it’s time to get your insulation looked at to see if it needs replacing.

High Energy Bills

High energy bills are an easy way to notice if your insulation is bad. They are also an incentive to get your insulation replaced as soon as possible. Not only are you paying a lot on your monthly bills, but you’re wearing out your heater and AC units much faster than if the insulation was adequate. This will cost you even more over time as you’ll have to get those replaced.

Some Rooms are More Comfortable Than Others

Not all insulation is ruined at the same time. Most of the time, only one room has bad insulation while another one is perfectly fine. If you notice that your living room is the perfect temperature, but your bedroom is unbearably cold at night, then there is likely a problem with your insulation.

Animal Infestation

Rodents, bats, and insects can all get into your attic or crawlspace and cause serious damage to your insulation. If a rodent gets in there it can cause damage to electrical wiring and drywall as well costing your hundreds to thousands of dollars to repair the damage. The damaged insulation should be replaced in order to make your home heating more efficient.

Wet Insulation

Leaks in your roof, blocked vents, basement floods, or lack of vapor barriers can all cause the insulation to get wet. Water gets trapped where the air is supposed to go in the insulation making it useless. Wet insulation can also grow mold that releases dangerous toxins into the air. Moist, damp, or completely soaked insulation cannot be salvaged and must be replaced.

Classic Pest Control and Insulation

Classic Pest Control and Insulation provides dead animal removal, attic and crawlspace cleanup, and insulation services. Learn more and schedule a consultation today!