Whether you’re motivated by saving money, staying healthy, or preparing for the hot and cold weather, evaluating the insulation in your home can help with all of the above. It is reported that 90% of homes are under insulated and choosing spray foam insulation or a more traditional fiberglass upgrade can both reduce strain on your HVAC system by maintaining a consistent temperature in your home.

Tip: Upgrade your insulation before high heating bills in winter start rolling in to save some cash.

For optimal energy efficiency, your home should be properly insulated from the roof down to its foundation. We recommend some best practices to get the most out of your insulation. Keep in mind, there are multiple spaces in your home that require insulation attention.

Note: upgraded insulation, especially spray foam, will help lower your monthly bill, increase your home’s value, and can even reduce your home’s insurance rates.

Attic Insulation Best Practices

1. Insulate between and over the floor joists to seal off living spaces below.
2. nsulate the attic access door
3. Insulate all exterior walls
4. Extend insulation into joist space to reduce air flows
5. Caulk and seal around all windows and doors

Exterior Wall Insulation Best Practices

1. Cold, draft air in winter and balmy, warm air in summer are signs you need to insulate your exterior walls
2. In an existing home, consider using blow-in insulation, which will provide a higher R-value (the higher the R-value, the greater the insulating effectiveness)
3. If you’re in the design phase of planning a new home, consider structural insulated panels, insulating concrete forms, and insulated concrete blocks

Basement Insulation Best Practices

1. In an existing home, add insulation to the exterior of the basement wall

4. Many insulation types require a fire-rated covering because they release toxic gases when ignited
5. Consider Blanket (batt and roll) insulation for higher R-value
6. Spray foam insulation is a good choice for finished basements)

Keep in mind that old insulation traps debris, moisture, and pollen that can lead to mold growth and impure indoor air. Proper insulation and well-maintained HVAC system creates an air seal to keep the healthy air in and outdoor air out.