Attic Inspection: Why Proper Attic Insulation Matters

Joshua Ojierenem
Oct 25, 2024
6 min read

Updated: Aug 5

Ever wonder why your energy bills are sky-high or why some rooms in your house feel like a sauna while others are chillier than a penguin's toes? The culprit might be lurking right above your head – in your attic! Today, we will uncover the secrets of proper attic insulation and provide some attic inspection insights from the various home inspections we have completed.

Proper attic insulation can make a world of difference in your home's energy efficiency

The Attic Insulation Lowdown: First things first – what exactly does attic insulation do? Think of it as a cozy blanket for your house. In winter, it keeps the warm air in, and in summer, it keeps the hot air out. It's like your home's personal thermostat regulator!

Attic Inspection - Why Proper Attic Insulation is a Game-Changer:

Energy Bill Buster 💰 Proper attic insulation can slash your energy bills faster than you can say "jackpot!" By keeping your home's temperature stable, your heating and cooling systems don't have to work overtime, saving you some serious cash.
Comfort is King 👑 Say goodbye to those Arctic-like bedrooms in winter and tropical bathrooms in summer. Good insulation means consistent temperatures throughout your home, so you can be comfy in every nook and cranny.
Mother Nature's BFF 🌿 By using less energy, you're reducing your carbon footprint. It's like giving Mother Nature a high-five!
Roof Protector 🏠 Proper insulation can help prevent ice dams in winter, which can damage your roof and lead to leaks. It's like a superhero cape for your roof!
Mold and Moisture Menace 🚫 Good insulation, combined with proper ventilation, helps control moisture levels in your attic, keeping mold and mildew at bay.

Attic Inspection - Signs Your Attic Insulation Needs Attention:

High energy bills
Inconsistent temperatures between rooms
Ice dams on your roof in winter
A toasty warm attic in winter (heat is escaping!)
Drafts in your home

A split image showing a well-insulated attic vs. a poorly insulated one

Types of Attic Insulation: There's no one-size-fits-all solution when it comes to attic insulation. Here are some popular options:

Fiberglass Batts: The classic choice, easy to install but requires careful fitting.
Blown-in Fiberglass or Cellulose: Great for filling nooks and crannies.
Spray Foam: Provides excellent coverage and air sealing but is typically more expensive.
Radiant Barriers: Reflects heat, particularly useful in hot climates.

Different insulation types suit different needs and budgets. — Collage showing different types of insulation materials

Where should I insulate:

Infographic on where to insulate in a home

DIY or Pro? That is the Question: While some handy homeowners might be tempted to tackle insulation as a DIY project, it's often best left to the pros. Why? Proper installation is crucial for effectiveness, and there are safety considerations (like avoiding covering electrical fixtures or ventilation). Plus, a professional can assess your specific needs and recommend the best solution.

The Brookstone Attic Inspection Advantage: At Brookstone Inspection Services, our eagle-eyed inspectors are attic insulation experts. We use advanced tools to assess your current insulation and can provide detailed recommendations for improvements. Our comprehensive home inspections cover attic insulation as part of our thorough top-to-bottom assessment.

Our expert inspectors leave no stone unturned when it comes to your attic insulation — Photo of a Brookstone inspector examining attic insulation

Proper attic insulation is more than just a home improvement project – it's an investment in comfort, efficiency, and the long-term health of your home. So, the next time you're up in your attic, give a little nod to that insulation. It's working hard to keep you comfy and your wallet happy!

Ready to give your attic the attention it deserves? Book an inspection with Brookstone Inspection Services today, and let's make sure your home's 'hat' fits just right!

Don't let poor insulation leave you out in the cold (or heat)! Contact Brookstone Inspection Services today for a comprehensive home inspection, including an attic inspection. Call us at 587-333-5530 or book online. Your cozy, efficient home awaits!

Edmonton Home Inspection, Home Inspection Edmonton

FAQ: Attic Inspection Insights

Q1: How often should attic insulation be replaced?

Great question! The lifespan of attic insulation isn't one-size-fits-all, but here's the scoop: typically, most types of insulation can last 20-30 years if properly installed and maintained. However, several factors can shorten this lifespan:

Water damage from roof leaks
Pest infestations (those pesky critters love making nests!)
Compression or shifting of the insulation over time
Major changes in your home's structure or ventilation

At Brookstone Inspection Services, we recommend having your attic insulation inspected every 5-10 years. Our eagle-eyed inspectors can spot signs of wear and tear that might not be visible to the untrained eye. Remember, proactive checks can save you from chilly surprises and sky-high energy bills down the road!

Q2: What R-value is recommended for attic insulation in Edmonton?

Ah, the famous R-value question! For those who aren't insulation nerds like us, the R-value measures insulation's ability to resist heat flow. The higher the R-value, the better the insulation performance.

In Edmonton's chilly climate, we're dealing with some seriously cold winters. The National Building Code of Canada (Alberta Edition) recommends an R-value of R-50 to R-60 for attics in our region. This translates to about 14-16 inches of fiberglass batt insulation or 16-18 inches of blown-in cellulose.

But here's the kicker – your home might need more or less depending on its specific characteristics. Factors like your attic's structure, ventilation, and even the colour of your roof can influence the ideal R-value. That's why at Brookstone, we assess each home individually to provide tailored recommendations. We're not just about meeting standards; we're about optimizing your home's efficiency!

Q3: Can I install attic insulation myself?

DIY enthusiasts, we hear you! While it's possible to install some types of attic insulation yourself, we usually recommend leaving it to the pros. Here's why:

Safety first! Attic work can be tricky and potentially dangerous, especially if you're not familiar with the space.
Proper installation is crucial. Even small gaps or compressed areas can significantly reduce insulation effectiveness.
There's more to it than just laying down insulation. Proper air sealing and ventilation are essential parts of the process.
Some types of insulation (like spray foam) require specialized equipment and expertise.
Professionals can spot and address other issues in your attic that might affect insulation performance.

That being said, if you're determined to DIY, stick to simpler options like laying fibreglass batts. Just be sure to wear proper protective gear and avoid covering any electrical fixtures or vents.

At Brookstone, we're always happy to assess your attic and provide expert advice, whether you're planning a DIY project or considering professional installation. Safety and effectiveness are our top priorities!

Q4: How much can I save on energy bills with proper attic insulation?

Now we're talking everyone's language – savings! 💰 The impact of proper attic insulation on your energy bills can be pretty impressive. While exact savings vary depending on your home's specific characteristics, energy usage, and local climate, here's a ballpark figure to get excited about:

According to Natural Resources Canada, upgrading your attic insulation can save you up to 15% on your heating and cooling costs. In some cases, homeowners have reported savings of up to 20%!

Let's break it down with a quick example: Say your annual energy bills are $2,000. A 15% saving would put $300 back in your pocket each year. Over 10 years, that's a whopping $3,000 saved!

But wait, there's more! Proper insulation not only saves you money but also:

Increases your home's overall comfort
Reduces wear and tear on your HVAC system
Can increase your home's resale value

At Brookstone Inspection Services, we love helping homeowners unlock these hidden savings. Remember, the sooner you optimize your attic insulation, the sooner you start saving. It's like finding money in your attic – now that's a treasure hunt we can get behind!

Who is Brookstone Inspection?

Brookstone Inspection Services Ltd. is an Edmonton Home Inspection Company. We take pride in delivering top-notch residential property inspections across Edmonton, Leduc, Sherwood Park, St. Albert, Beaumont, Devon, and the surrounding areas. Our inspectors hold the following certifications: Certified Commercial Property Inspector (CCPIA), Certified Professional Inspector (InterNACHI), and Licensed Professional Engineer, as recognized by the Association of Professional Engineers and Geoscientists of Alberta. This ensures every inspection is conducted with the highest standards of professionalism and expertise.

Book Your Home Inspection Now