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How to Care for Your Attic Insulation this Winter

Getting your attic prepared for cooler weather doesn’t have to take a lot of time or money. You don’t want to see an increase in your heating bill, but it is possible if you don’t take the correct precautions for your attic’s insulation. Here are some tips to ensure your attic is in top-notch shape:

Insulate Your Attic

When your attic is poorly insulated, it allows moist air to become trapped, which can cause problems like mold and wood rot. If your attic is already properly insulated, inspect it often for damage from pests or wildlife. Likewise, keep an eye out to ensure that the insulation hasn’t moved out of place, as this can cause your energy bill to spike.

Seal Cracks

While inspecting your attic, take the time to check for holes or cracks throughout the space that are connected to your living space, as it will allow air to escape. The tiniest hole will cause your HVAC system to work overtime, causing an increase in your energy bills. The best way to find holes in your attic is to inspect during the daytime when the light shines through the cracks. The easiest way to mend these holes or cracks is to seal them with caulk.

Keep Roof Clear from Debris

When you allow pine needles and leaves to pile up on your roof, they can trap water. Over time, the pine needles can break down the roofing material and cause leaks in your attic. Once water enters your attic, it’s only a matter of time before the water enters your main living space.

If you believe you need to replace your attic’s insulation, consider calling and scheduling a free inspection to experience a warmer and pest-free home for the winter.

The Benefits of Crawlspace Care

It’s bad enough having to deal with cold winter weather outside. It’s even worse when the cold temperatures start to creep into your home. While heating systems work hard enough in the winter to keep our homes warm and comfortable, additional cold air seeping into your home makes them have to work even harder. This can leave you with cold feet and a high energy bill.

Up to 50% of household air flows in from your crawlspace. If your crawlspace isn’t enclosed, it lets your heated or cooled air out and allows outdoor air in. This will cause your heating and cooling system to work overtime to compensate for the fluctuation in temperatures, which may cause you to still feel cold floors and inconsistent temperatures throughout your home. Also, these units burning more energy leads you to increased utility bills.

Crawlspace enclosure is similar to adding a liner to your pool to avoid leaks. Water vapor enters your crawlspace from the ground and can even seep through cement. Increased moisture can cause a handful of problems in your crawlspace and your home. Moisture attracts pests, degrades indoor air quality, can cause mold and mildew growth, warped floors, and structural damage. Adding a moisture barrier and dehumidifier is a great way to help keep moisture out of your crawlspace. Below are more benefits of a crawlspace enclosure.

Improved air quality in the home

Keeps pests and wood-destroying insects out

Creates more comfortable living conditions

Eliminates moisture which decreases fungus and mold

Increases energy efficiency

More consistent temperatures

Less wear and tear on heating and cooling systems

Do you have an issue with moisture in your crawlspace? Contact a professional who can come out and inspect your crawlspace, identify potential areas of concern, and recommend the best treatment plan for your situation.