Attic Insulation

When it comes to attic insulation, what’s right for one household in one part of the country isn’t necessarily right for one in another part. For example, an adequate amount of insulation in the upper Midwest would not be right for the hot, desert-like southwestern part of the country. It is estimated that 90% of U.S. homes are under insulated in their attic. Also, most of what you can read on the Internet about insulating attics is geared toward colder climates. Water Mold Fire Restoration would like to address each situation so that you may have a better understanding of what is needed, no matter where you live.

Why Insulate a Non-Living Space

Insulation may be installed in your attic, but its benefits are felt throughout your house and also in your wallet. In nature, hot always moves toward cold if it can. If the air in your attic is cold, it will want to move downward into your warmer rooms. And the reverse is also true. Insulation’s purpose is to moderate the air temperature between interior and exterior spaces. It will lessen the impact of temperature fluctuations within a building.

If you live in Arizona, summertime temperatures can reach well past 110°. You could bake a cake just by putting the batter in the attic. In situations like this, you should place adequate insulation on the floor of the attic but also to the inside of your roof, between the trusses or roof rafters.

If you live in Maine, where winter starts in late October and temperatures can reach 40° below zero, you probably can do without insulation on the interior roof but need more of in on the floor of the attic.

Before you can determine what amount of insulation is needed you must check the insulation you already have. You need to check the overall condition of the insulation and the depth, or thickness that is present:

• 4”-5” deep – poorly insulated – roughly a R-15 factor
• 6”-7” deep - inadequately insulated – roughly R-21
• 13”-14” deep – recommended for most southern applications – roughly R-38
• 16”-18” deep – recommended for northern climates – roughly R-49

R-value determines how much heat resistance the insulation has

Why There May Be Mold In Your Attic

A lack of adequate insulation can add to the possibility of mold growing in your attic. Because insulation helps control temperature fluctuations, it also helps to prevent condensation. As air rises it can carry with it moisture. When cold air meets warm air condensation can take place. This can especially occur due to improper insulation levels in your attic.

As moisture condensates on wood or insulation, mold growth can be supported. If your attic insulation happens to be cellulose-based, the insulation becomes the mold’s food source.

Sometimes homeowners make the mistake of adding paper or foil backed insulation to their existing insulation. The backing then becomes a vapor barrier that traps moisture in the attic.

Mold Dangers to Your Health

People with mold sensitivities or immune-compromised individuals can have negative health reactions when exposed to mold and mold spores. Allergic symptoms like coughing, a runny nose, headaches and skin and eye irritations are common in these cases. The best way to keep mold out of your home is to control moisture.

Insulating for Warmer Climates

Here are some types of attic insulation that are suitable for a southern climate:

Spray Foam Insulation – the best type for hot climates. It sprays on and expands to fill every crack and joint. It has a higher R-factor and will stop any air leaks.

Loose Fill Insulation – this type of insulation is good for existing homes that need added insulation due to age and compaction. It is blown in through a hose by a machine. You can rent the machine and do the job yourself or hire a professional to do it for you.

Reflective Insulation – it is made of aluminum foil glued onto a paper or plastic base. Reflective insulation works best when it is paired with bulk insulation.

Radiant Barrier Insulation – it acts to reflect heat and energy. Again it is best to use it along with some other type of bulk insulation. This type of insulation is commonly used to cover HVAC ductwork.

Rolled Batt Insulation – This is the most common insulation and it can be rolled out between rafters. It comes with and without a paper backing and is usually pink or yellow in color.

Insulating for Colder Climates

Here are some types of attic insulation that are suitable for a northern climate:

Fiberglass Insulation – this insulation has a R-value of 60. It is lightweight and will not compress as it ages, retaining its energy-saving capability.

Cellulose Insulation – it is loose and blown in and is the most common type of insulation for colder regions. Its R-value is 49.

Spray Foam Insulation – as well as it works for southern climates; it is also great for colder ones. This is because of its air leak blocking characteristic and its higher R-value (3.5 to 6.5 of value for every inch of insulation put down).

Although rolled batt insulation can be used in either warm or cold climates, it tends to not age well. It can be susceptible to moisture and compression and is hard to fit tightly into gaps or oddly shaped areas.

Professional Help Is Available

If you have concerns about or have spotted mold in your attic or home, know that Water Mold Fire Restoration, 800-905-0277, is ready to help. We respond 24/7 and our initial inspection is free, without obligation. Our professional remediation teams are able to safely eliminate any mold from your attic. No situation is too large or too small. If you prefer to email us your questions, you can do so by contacting us at help@watermoldfire.net.