Minnesotans know the value of good attic insulation. Attic insulation keeps your home warmer during the winter and cooler during the summer. But, there’s more to it than that. Properly insulating your attic can reap many benefits. Yet, attic insulation that isn’t installed correctly can have adverse effects on your comfort and your home systems. Here’s what to know.

Attic Insulation

There are many benefits to insulating your attic correctly. Firstly, you’re going to save money on your energy bill, especially during the winter months. Heat rises and if attic insulation isn’t up to par, heat intended for your living spaces is going to seep into the attic. This reduces comfort, raises your energy bill, and means trouble for your roofing system.

Ice Dams And Roof Damage

If your roof gets those ice dams each winter, it’s a sign of poor attic insulation. The heat escaping into the attic heats the roof, which melts the snow. The snowmelt runs down the roof and refreezes at the eaves, where there isn’t heat.

Icicles can be lovely to look at, but those ice dams mean trouble for your roof and home. Ice can upend shingles and force water beneath the roofing system. Subsequently, your roof becomes prone to water leaks and all the damage that can cause.

Mold Growth In The Attic

Attic insulation can also work against you if it is blocking air vents. If air vents are blocked, there won’t be enough airflow to facilitate the evaporation of moisture. This can lead to mold and mildew growth anywhere in the attic since all mold needs to grow is air, moisture, and a food source (e.g. dust and wood). Over time, mold and mildew can lead to air problems and the deterioration of attic structure.

HVAC Wear & Tear

You pay good money for your heating and cooling systems, and you want them operating at peak efficiency. However, you also don’t want them to be overworked, which can reduce their useful lifespan, increase breakdowns, and literally cost you money you don’t need to spend. When your attic is properly insulated by a professional contractor, it’s a win-win for your HVAC system and your pocketbook.

It Pays To Have Your Attic Inspected

As if you aren’t paying enough in home heating and cooling costs, poor attic insulation, either too little or improperly installed, is going to do just that: raise your energy bills. With all the trouble that bad attic insulation can cause, it literally pays to have your attic inspected by a professional home contractor. You’ll see if your attic insulation is up to snuff, where it could use improvement, if at all, and make sure your energy dollars are being well spent.

Plus, you’ll help your roofing system last longer by maintaining a healthy attic when it comes to home efficiency and inter-related home systems.

If you need to have your home inspected, call us for a FREE INSPECTION & ESTIMATE. We are Younger Exteriors, and we treat all our clients like family. Give us a call or contact us online today! (612) 320-0320