Do I Need More Attic Insulation?

Attic insulation is one way to lower your energy bills and make your home more green.

Most homeowners never add more attic insulation even though most new home builders install the absolute minimum amount of attic insulation required by code.  Over time, blown-in insulation tends to settle naturally, and attics often miss 20%-50% of the insulation necessary to meet the R-value recommended by the U.S. Department of Energy.

Once insulation settles or is matted down, its insulating ability is reduced, and the R-value is diminished.  Through a visual inspection, if the floor joists in your attic are visible, you probably need more insulation.   Floor joists are the boards spread every 16″ to 24″ across the attic floor, about eight inches high.  These boards should be covered entirely in excess by insulation.  See the illustration at the bottom of this page for further explanation.  

Adding new attic insulation will restore or exceed the R-Value the U.S. Department of Energy recommends, which will save you money on energy costs and help limit your need for AC Repair in Plano, Richardson, Allen, and surrounding Dallas, Texas communities.

How often should you put more insulation in your attic?

Several factors influence the frequency of adding insulation to your attic. Generally, it’s advisable to reassess your attic insulation every 10-15 years. Over time, insulation can settle or degrade, reducing its effectiveness.

However, the need for insulation maintenance also depends on climate. In regions with extreme temperatures, such as very hot or cold climates, regular inspections are essential. Additionally, energy efficiency goals, local building codes, and the age of your home play a role. During major renovations or roof replacements, it’s an opportune time to enhance insulation. Ultimately, the ideal timing for adding more insulation varies based on individual circumstances.

Will adding attic insulation save me money?

Yes. With a well-insulated attic, you will be amazed at how much you will save on heating and air conditioning costs. The money you save from your heating or air conditioning bills will pay for your insulation in just a few years.

Adequately insulated attics and ceilings will pay for themselves in just four years. The Department of Energy estimates that a properly insulated attic can shave 10 to 50 percent off your heating and cooling bill.

How Much Insulation Do I Need In My Attic In Texas?

Knowing if you need to add insulation to your attic begins with an inspection of the thickness of your attic insulation. Although a thorough examination of your attic insulation is necessary to assess your current insulation thickness, a quick peek can let you know the current level of your attic insulation.

If you can see the wood beams (joists) through the insulation, you probably don’t have the recommended R-value for your attic and are wasting money on energy costs.

Attic insulation tends to settle over time, so it no longer provides the insulating resistance necessary for your area. If your home is over eight years old, chances are your insulating power is less than it once was, so you are probably paying more to heat and cool your home than necessary.