Adding insulation and properly sealing air leaks are some of the simplest ways you can save money on your bills. When you need to run your heat and air conditioning less, you keep your home more comfortable without having to pay more for it. And when you use less energy, your home is more earth-friendly as well.
The Boulder City, NV climate can be harsh — rising to more than 100 degrees in summer and dropping into the 30s in winter, so you will find the proper amount of the right type of insulation will help keep your home at comfortable temperatures year-round.
And when it comes to saying goodbye to air leaks and hello to insulation, the professionals at Ambient Edge are there every step of the way. From years of experience to state-of-the-art tools, we make sure the job is done correctly, stopping chilly drafts and hot, stale air in their tracks.
Call us today or fill out the form to request a consultation.
Why Insulation Is Not a DIY Project
Where in your home do you already have insulation? Where do you need insulation? How much insulation do you need? What type (or types) of insulation is the best fit for your needs?
Most homeowners don’t have the years of insulation installation knowledge necessary to answer these questions. Watching a video online and counting on a weekend project generally results in an itchy homeowner with breathing irritations and a home that is even more poorly insulated than before.
Why? Because the typical home requires multiple different types of insulation in different spaces, depending on the conditions. Many of those insulation options require special equipment and tools, as well as experience using them.
Sure, you can grab a few rolls of fiberglass insulation from a home improvement store, but how can you know whether that type of insulation is the right type for your space? Rolls (batts) or blankets of fiberglass insulation perform poorly in moist spaces and are susceptible to mold and mildew if they come in prolonged contact with water. In fact, if fiberglass insulation is what is currently in your home, you may experience skin irritation and breathing problems when adding, moving, or removing fiberglass products if you’re not using professional tools, respirators, and coverings.
Special equipment, and in some cases licensing, is required to use loose-fill and open-cell or closed-cell spray foam insulation. While those are not DIY projects, those types of insulation may actually be most effective for your space. This is why it’s a good idea to work with an insulation installation professional on these types of projects.
Choosing Your Home Insulation Type
An insulation specialist will survey your space to find air leaks, drafts, and areas that require new or additional insulation. They will also work with you to determine the best insulation type for your specific needs and budget.
Insulation is measured by its R-value, or thermal resistance. The higher the R-value, the better insulation it provides.
Less effective but cheaper fiberglass insulation has a lower R-value (between 13 and 30). Blown-in insulation made from recycled paper and wood projects (cellulose) has a higher R-value (between 30 and 50), but the upfront costs are a bit higher.
One of the most typically under-insulated areas of a home is the attic, where at least 10- to 14-inches of insulation with an R-value of 38 or higher is recommended for maximum effectiveness.
Effective spaces to insulate, and which also tend to be drafty, include:
- Attics
- Roofs
- Walls
- Basements
- Windows
- Floors
Large areas such as attics sometimes require multiple types of insulation for maximum effectiveness. You can use spray foam to seal air and water leaks. Then you can use fiberglass, cellulose, or mineral wool to fill in the spaces between the floor joists.
An Important Note About Asbestos
If your home was built before 1970, it may have vermiculite insulation, which normally contains asbestos. If asbestos is properly maintained and remains untouched, it can safely remain in your home. Your professional insulation installer can help you identify whether you have asbestos in your insulation and help you determine if it can stay or if you need professional asbestos abatement. This is because asbestos can cause cancer if its fibers loosen and are breathed in.
When considering which type of insulation is right for you, it is also helpful to examine how much sun hits your roof during the day and at what angle. Temperature ranges and the area in which you live factor in as well. Follow the recommended insulation guidelines for maximum efficiency.
Adding Insulation Saves You Money
With the right type and amount of insulation, you can save up to 20% on your home’s heating and cooling costs, according to the U.S. Department of Energy. Depending on your situation, you can realize a cost savings of several hundred dollars per year with a properly insulated, energy-efficient home.
Well-insulated homes use less energy to stay comfortable, no matter the time of year. And, if you’re planning on selling your home, a better-insulated house is more attractive to buyers. Potential buyers often ask about the energy usage (and costs associated) of a home. During a home inspection, professional inspectors make note of any issues with insulation and air leakage.
Schedule Your Insulation Installation in Boulder City, NV Today
Partnering with an experienced insulation installation professional is the best way to evaluate your home’s insulation conditions. Be on your way to a comfortable home, year-round, all while saving money on your energy bills! Contact the experts at Ambient Edge now or send us a message to schedule a consultation. Ask about our quality and service guarantee.