The attic of your Dripping Springs, Texas, home could be hiding a secret that’s driving up your utility bills. Poor attic insulation can allow heat to escape your home and cause a variety of problems. Check out these signs of poor attic insulation and how to take care of it to reduce energy wastage and prevent other issues.
Pests in the Attic
If you notice mice or bugs inside your attic insulation, it’ll likely require replacing. You may notice holes where the pests have created nests, or you might spot their dirt and droppings. Their tunnels and nests can potentially run throughout your attic, even in spots where the insulation seems untouched, so you’ll need to have the area inspected. When this issue presents itself, you need to not only take care of the pest problem but also have your attic insulation replaced or the volume increased.
Higher-Than-Normal Electric Bills
Have you started noticing that your heat is running continually or cycling on or off more than usual? You might even notice that your electric bills are higher than normal due to your HVAC system having to run frequently. When these things occur, there’s a good possibility that your attic insulation is to blame. A thin layer or lack of attic insulation can allow the heat in your house to rise outside of your home. To address this issue, you’ll need to add or increase insulation in your attic. Which route you choose depends on the extent of your insulation problem.
Old Insulation
Your insulation might have aged to the point it’s no longer insulating properly. You might notice that your insulation is outdated or doesn’t meet current building codes. Other signs your insulation is no longer sufficient due to its age is if it crumbles when touched or has other signs of damage. Removing and replacing it with new insulation materials is the best option.
Keep in mind that it can be dangerous for homeowners to handle old insulation themselves. Old insulation often contains potentially toxic materials such as asbestos. For this reason, work with a professional to find out whether you need to have it removed or if you can simply apply new insulation on top.
Moisture in the Attic
Not only can your insulation issues allow heat to escape. They can also let moisture into your attic. You might notice condensation building up on attic surfaces or see a physical leak. While it’s possible the issue is with your roof, the insulation is likely contributing to the problem. You might need to have your roof repaired or your insulation improved. If your insulation has suffered water damage, it needs replacing completely. If not, that insulation can harbor biological growth over time.
Different Temperature Zones
Another sign your attic insulation is contributing to heating issues in your home is if you notice different temperature zones throughout the house. If your downstairs living room is a comfortably warm temperature while your upstairs master bedroom is freezing, there’s a good chance your attic insulation is lacking. It’ll need the proper amount of insulation to help stop these zones from developing in your home.
General Draftiness
A final sign that your attic insulation might need adjusting or replacement is if your home feels drafty. The airflow that’s allowing the heat to escape might also be allowing cold air into your home. Confirm whether your attic insulation is to blame by securing all windows and doors and seeing if you still experience drafts. To address the issue, have a professional evaluate your attic’s insulation.
Have you started seeing signs that your attic insulation is causing heating issues? Give Woods Comfort Systems a call at 512-842-5066 to speak with one of our experienced staff members. Let us help you get your attic insulated the right way.
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