The lifespan of attic insulation typically ranges from 10 to 15 years, but its durability can be affected by a variety of factors, such as the climate, ventilation, and pests in your home. Fiberglass insulation is one of the most commonly used types of attic insulation and has an expected lifespan of 80 to 100 years. However, due to its construction with natural materials, it will eventually lose its effectiveness and need to be replaced after 15 to 20 years. If your attic is dirty or dusty, it's likely time to consider thoroughly cleaning the area and replacing the existing insulation. Insulating materials can also be damaged by water, contaminated with mold and fungi, or infested by animals that reside in the insulation or use the materials for nesting.
So, even if your home is primarily insulated with other materials, if cellulose is present, you can start to feel the effects of the insulation aging as that material degrades. While some types of insulation, such as fiberglass insulation, retain their insulating properties more when wet than others, such as cellulose insulation, it is only a matter of time before the wet insulation becomes a moldy insulator. In winter, attic insulation keeps the house warm, while in summer it blocks heat and allows the air conditioner to work effectively, keeping the house cool and comfortable. Installing insulation in the attic and keeping it in good condition to save energy and ensure the comfort of your home is only in the interest of the owner. If your home doesn't have insulation in the attic at the bottom of the roof or on the attic floor, you're probably losing a lot of air conditioning and heating, putting a cost on your energy bills. Cellulose insulation is environmentally friendly and more effective at blocking air than other types of insulation.
Limit access to the area and have a person trained and certified to work with asbestos insulation in attics professionally inspect insulation that may be contaminated. From a house with drafts that are too high to energy bills that keep rising, you'll want to watch out for these signs that your attic insulation may need to be replaced. Many homeowners have questions about how much attic insulation is needed to save energy. To ensure optimal performance from your attic insulation, it's important to know when it's time for replacement. If you notice any of these signs in your home, it's time to consider replacing your attic insulation:
- Your energy bills are increasing
- Your home has drafts
- Your attic is dirty or dusty
- Your attic has been infested by pests
- Your attic has been exposed to water damage
- Your attic has been contaminated with mold or fungi
It's important to hire a professional who is trained and certified in working with asbestos insulation in attics for any replacement projects. This will help ensure that your new insulation is installed correctly and safely.
