If there’s a problem with your insulation material, you are going to notice a myriad of problems throughout your home when the weather gets cold—maybe not all at once, but over time. One of the first problems you are likely to run into is an uncomfortable indoor environment. Even with the heater turned on, the air doesn’t get much warmer than lukewarm, and you might encounter chilly drafts in several rooms of your house. The best time to install new residential insulation is before serious problems arise, so don’t ignore what your house is trying to tell you!
Here are five signs that your home insulation in West Lorne, ON may need to be replaced this winter:
- Indoor temperature fluctuations: Old insulation materials, inadequate installation and shifting materials can all cause noticeable indoor temperature fluctuations. You will typically feel a big difference in certain rooms, and these will likely be the areas where you find insulation issues. If the insulation is not providing full coverage, then cold air can sneak in, and your heating system is just working in vain.
- High energy bills: On that same note, damaged insulation can lead to a dramatic increase in your winter heating bills. As if the outdoor elements creeping in were not already a pretty clear indication of poor insulation, you also need to watch out for higher-than-usual energy bills for this time of year. If your insulation is weakened, but you continue to run your heating system hard trying to warm up, you’re only wasting energy, losing money and likely to end up with costly HVAC repairs later on.
- Cold indoor drafts: Because old insulation materials and poor installation jobs can leave attics and crawlspaces prone to air leaks, it’s not uncommon to feel cold drafts breaking through openings that are supposed to hold back cold air during the winter months. After all, insulation is what blocks the outside air from mixing with the indoor environment. If odd drafts are present, and all doors and windows are shut, it’s time to inspect your home’s insulation.
- Wet insulation: Unfortunately, if your roof springs a leak this winter and water makes contact with wall, attic or basement insulation, the materials will be ruined—once wet, insulation materials cannot be dried out and reused. So, whether moist, damp or soaking wet, home insulation in West Lorne, ON that shows signs of water damage needs to be removed and replaced as soon as possible.
- Insulation is old: It’s important to note that if you move into an older home with its original insulation, there’s a high possibility that the insulation materials are of lower quality. To check, put on gloves so you can feel the material. Insulation that breaks apart and crumbles in your hands needs be upgraded with new stuff.
Make sure you and your family stay warm and cozy all winter long. If you need to replace your home insulation in West Lorne, ON, look no further than Chase Insulation for affordable services and quality products. Contact us today!