Attic insulation plays a key role in keeping your home energy efficient and lowering your energy bills. As a new homeowner, having the correct information about attic insulation will help you make informed choices regarding the type of insulation as well as insulation installation. This guide offers information on what you need to know before insulating your attic.
Choosing the Best Insulation for Your Attic
Your choice of attic insulation has a significant impact on its efficiency and your energy bills. When deciding on the best insulation for your attic, consider the R-Value and flammability. The higher the R-value, the higher the efficiency of your insulation. Also, fire resistance protects your home against fires.
In Las Vegas, the best insulation for your attic should have an R-value of 38 to 49 if you are updating or adding your insulation. For uninsulated attics, R-values between 49 and 60 are ideal. To help you make the right choice, here are three main insulation types to choose from.
- Fiberglass Batts
Fiberglass batts consist of fiberglass insulation material that comes as rolls or panels. The batts may or may not have a foil facing to help control moisture and are available in various thicknesses and R values. You may need one or more layers of fiberglass batts for your attic. The good thing is that most batts fit in spaces between the attic walls and studs.
They are also effective against rodent infestation as the animals can’t burrow into the insulation as in the case of spray foam or blown in. However, installation can be cumbersome in attics with awkward spacing or obstruction. They are also very light, which makes customization a challenge.
- Blown-in
Blown-in insulation refers to cellulose or fiberglass insulation material applied by spraying or blowing into the attic using a machine and a hose. Unlike batts, blown-in insulation does not leave as many gaps. It can also get into the nooks and crannies of your attic without a problem.
Loose-fill fiberglass can adequately handle moisture issues as it doesn’t rot and is highly fire-resistant. Cellulose, on the other hand, is environmentally friendly and affordable since it comprises recycled materials. However, it can absorb moisture which may lead to mold. Both fiberglass and cellulose have an R-value of about 3 to 4 per inch. Blown-in insulation can last up to 25 years.
- Spray Foam
Spray foam insulation consists of polyurethane insulation material that is sprayed into the attic. It is available in open cell and closed cell spray foam and is the best insulation for your attic due to its superior qualities. Spray foam has the highest R-value of the three types of insulation, with open-cell ranging from 2.2-3.5 per inch while closed-cell ranges from 6 to 7 per inch. It is also highly expansive, making it efficient in covering even the most hidden parts of your attic.
While open-cell may absorb moisture, closed-cell spray foam creates an effective moisture barrier that prevents the growth of mold and mildew. Spray foam insulation can last up to 80 years.
You don’t have to know everything about attic insulation if you are working with a professional as they will give you sound advice on the best insulation for your attic.
What Does Attic Insulation Cost?
As a new homeowner, knowing your attic insulation costs facilitates proper planning and budgeting. Since every home has unique needs, it may be impossible to get an exact figure as numerous factors determine insulation costs. However, an average estimate will give you a clue on what to expect.
In Las Vegas, the average attic insulation cost ranges between $1.00 and $3.00 per square foot, depending on insulation material. You can expect to spend up to $2800 for an average 12 square foot attic insulation. Note that the prices may not be inclusive of labor charges or extra services such as removal of previous insulation. Therefore, you should always budget higher to avoid financial surprises during the project.
The cost of attic insulation depends on numerous factors including, the size of the attic, type of insulation, and the company conducting the insulation. With this in mind, always get at least three quotes from different companies when hiring an attic insulation professional to ensure you get the best services within your budget.
Remember that although cheap may not always reflect the quality of the service, you are better off investing in reputable attic insulation services if they guarantee quality. Also, since attic insulation costs can spiral fast, it is advisable to hire a contractor for the job as they offer accurate estimates and can help you plan for the project.
Why a Professional Should Always Handle Your Attic Insulation Installation
You should never handle insulation materials or attempt to insulate your attic on your own, no matter how much you trust your DIY skills. Attic insulation installation is best left to professionals due to the numerous hazards it presents. Below are some of the reasons to seek professional attic insulation installation instead of going at it alone.
- Safety.
Most insulation materials contain harmful components that can cause skin irritation, trigger allergies, and lead to respiratory complications. By handling insulation material yourself, you put your health and that of your family at risk. If you just moved into an older home, your attic insulation may contain asbestos, a carcinogenic mineral that is highly dangerous when inhaled. Also, attic insulation that contains asbestos should always be handled by professionals for safe removal and disposal. Professionals have the safety equipment and measures to manage insulation materials without endangering their health. They also have insurance to cover any safety hazard they may encounter in their line of work.
- Experience and Expertise
Hiring a professional for your attic insulation installation gives you access to expertise and years of experience. The training and skills enable professionals to complete the job within a short time without compromising on quality. What's more, professionals will first evaluate your home to determine what insulation is best for your attic.
They will also inspect your attic for issues such as mold, mildew, or pest infestation to ensure it is ready for attic insulation installation. Without proper training, you can easily miss potential problems in your attic that might lower the insulation's efficiency. By hiring professionals, you can enjoy the peace of mind that comes with knowing that your attic insulation is in capable hands.
- Cost Savings
DIY attic insulation installation may seem like the best way to cut costs. However, you risk spending more due to improper technique, substandard materials, and the general lack of expertise in the field. Any mistakes you make when handling insulation will eventually need the services of a professional insulation expert.
You will also have to buy the materials and equipment for the task, which may be costly than hiring a technician. Professionals have access to high-quality materials at lower costs due to their networks and economies of scale. Working with a professional from the start allows you to enjoy excellent services, high-quality materials, and value for your money.
Although hiring a reliable professional for your attic insulation may seem costly, the benefits are long-lasting. You not only reduce expenses from improper installation but also enjoy lower energy bills for longer.
Professional Attic Insulation Services in Las Vegas.
If you are thinking about installing attic insulation in Las Vegas, First Quality Roofing & Insulation is your best bet for professional and reliable attic insulation solutions. We also offer attic insulation inspection to ensure your home is adequately insulated and energy-efficient. Contact us today for all your attic insulation needs in Las Vegas.
