5 signs of inadequate home insulation
The cost of heating accounts for a large part of Quebec gas and electric bills. If a house is poorly insulated, heating costs even more. On the other hand, proper insulation can reduce heating costs by as much as 20%. What’s more, inadequate or poorly installed insulation can actually damage your home. Here are 5 signs that your home insulation needs immediate attention.
High energy bills
Have your energy bills been going through the roof for the past few years? Blown-in wool insulation in attics and walls can settle, making it less effective and leaving some areas vulnerable to cold. The change in temperature may be subtle but you’re bound to notice the rise in heating costs. If heat escapes through the roof and walls, you can improve the insulation.
The house’s surfaces are cold
Your home’s ceilings, walls and floors should be warm and dry. Wet or cold surfaces indicate a problem with the insulation. Outside walls should be cold to the touch, since good insulation keeps warm air inside. Time to make a change? Here’s how to insulate your walls from the outside.
Some rooms are colder than others
Does it seem like some rooms in your house are always colder or warmer than others, no matter what you do? These rooms are often above the garage or below the attic. It’s important for every room in your house to be properly insulated. Same goes for your foundation’s inner walls. If you’re doing renovations, consider insulating the basement.
Cold drafts
In winter, fresh air coming in through window and door frames can make certain areas drafty. Extra insulation, such as spray foam, is a quick fix. Get the job done well ahead of the cold months and you’ll be ready when winter comes.
Ice dams on the roof
Ice dams on the roof are another sign of inadequate insulation. Ice dams form when heat loss from the attic melts the first layer of snow on the roof. Melted snow slides toward the eavestroughs and freezes. Insulating your roof helps prevent ice dams, which will help you avoid water infiltration and roof damage.
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See also:
How to detect cold air infiltration in your home
How to insulate an existing home
Condensation on windows: causes, prevention and how to stop it