While an attic is often used only for storage, it doesn’t mean it should be left unattended or overlooked. Attics should be inspected at least once a year to identify any problems or potential threats to the overall safety of your home. Common issues that attic inspections can bring to light include fire damage, water damage, animal infestations, chimney ventilation, and improper attic insulation.
It is extremely important that you inspect attic insulation to ensure that your home is running as efficiently as possible. An improper amount of insulation can cause your utility bills to be much higher than necessary. You’ll want to look at the type of insulation as well as the depth and thickness as well as understand the importance of R-value. Follow this handy guide from Pro Home Improvement to inspect your attic insulation like one of the pros.
Step 1: Gather the materials needed to inspect your attic.
In order to safely inspect your attic insulation, you will need a tape measure, flashlight, hard hat or some protective covering for your head, safety glasses, gloves, face mask, and boards to walk on if it is necessary. Some attics, especially older ones or those that have been well maintained, could contain asbestos or animal droppings. It is important that you have the proper protective items to ensure a safe and healthy environment.
Step 2: Perform a quick visual check of your insulation levels.
As you inspect your attic, if you notice that your insulation levels are the same height as or below your attic floor joists, your insulation is too low. If you cannot even see your floor joists due to insulation, you likely have enough. Your insulation should be evenly distributed throughout the attic with the largest amount in the middle and the least amount along the eaves.
Step 3: Measure your insulation levels.
The most important thing about your attic insulation is its R-value, which is the measure of how well it resists the conductive flow of heat. You can either read the R-value on the batts of your current insulation or use a measuring tape to determine its depth, in inches. In the state of Michigan, it is recommended that you have R49 to R60 for uninsulated attics, or R38 to R49 if your attic already has 3-4 inches of existing insulation.
Inspect Regularly
Keep in mind that your home’s age is also a factor in determining how much insulation you need. If your house is 10 years or older, it is highly possible that you need more insulation. However, insulation can last and protect your home for several decades. Regularly inspecting your attic will ensure that you are always maintaining the optimal amount of insulation and running an efficient home.
Having trouble with your insulation inspection? Well, you’re in luck because Pro Home Improvement has the qualified experts to help assure that your home is not only well insulated but that it looks great too! We can inspect your insulant levels and provide a no-obligation estimate. Call us today at 888-PRO-1998 or contact us online to schedule an appointment.