When Should I Replace My Attic & Crawl Space Insulation in Downey, CA? After Roof Leak, Pests & More

When the attic and crawl space insulation is old or degraded due to water damage or age, the home suffers in a few different ways. There are a number of causes for the attic insulation to degrade and become less efficient. The home’s insulation is essential for maintaining the home’s indoor temperatures. CA Green Attic & Construction would like to share some of the most common signs that the attic requires replacement insulation.

Insulation Affects Indoor Temperature

One of the primary responsibilities for insulation in the attic and throughout the home is to provide a barrier where the outside temperatures don’t affect the home. At the same time, the indoor temperature is better maintained. When the insulation degrades, ages, or has become damaged you might be made aware by common some signs. A primary sign is if the home indoor temperature changes quickly matching the exterior temperature. During the winter the home will be colder and during the summer months, the inside of the home will be hotter. This will cause the home heating or cooling system to activate more often. If the home temperatures change quickly, or you notice more frequent heating or cooling cycles, often the attic insulation requires replacing.

High Electric & Utility Bills

As a result of poor attic insulation, the heat and cooling system will run more frequently and often longer to correct the indoor temperature. These frequent and extended run cycles often reveal themselves in the monthly utility bills. The increase can be subtle or dramatic, depending on the condition of the insulation in the attic. Once the utility bill begins to increase, have the attic insulation inspected as well as the HVAC system, including the air ducts. However, in many cases the attic insulation is the culprit, especially in older homes.

Recent Pest Infestations

In the state of California, the top common attic pests are rats, mice, squirrels, raccoons, bats and even birds. These pests can cause serious damage or contaminate the attic insulation. Rodents and other pests can chew on the insulation. Their droppings and urine can cause degrading as well. Some pests can harbor harmful diseases and viruses which can contaminate the insulation and even enter through the HVAC system. If there was a recent pest invasion, have the insulation inspected and see if it needs to be replaced.

Roof Leaks & Water Damage

The material used for insulation is often susceptible to water or moisture damage that degrades the insulation quickly. Not only does water degrade insulation, it all promotes mold to develop in the insulation. When roof leaks occur, often the attic insulation is severely affected. If the leaking didn’t cause mold to grow it will cause the insulation to degrade and become inefficient. When requiring roof repair or roof leaks are discovered, the attic insulation should be inspected and evaluated. If needed, have the attic insulation replaced.

Attic & Crawl Space Insulation Installation & More in West Hills, Long Beach, Santa Clarita, Glendale, Pomona, Torrance, Pasadena, El Monte, Downey, Inglewood, West Covina & Greater Los Angeles, CA

CA Green Attic & Construction provides attic insulation installations and more. If you are building a new home or find you need your attic insulation replaced, contact CA Green Attic & Construction today.