5 Home Insulation Mythbusters
The fluffy pink insulation living in your walls and attic probably isn’t what you think of when you consider making updates to your house. But it plays a vital role in the comfort of your home. Find out if you know the truth behind these five common misconceptions so you can keep your house cozy and running efficiently all winter long.
Myth: In a place as warm as Texas, insulation isn’t necessary.
Fact: Insulation helps keep houses warm in the colder months, but it also keeps them cool in the warmer months. Everyone who wants to save money on their energy bills can use insulation, no matter the climate. Insulation is rated by its R-value, which is a measure of thermal resistance — the higher the R-value, the more effective it is at insulating. Visit Energy.gov to find out which R-value is most appropriate for your area.
Myth: Insulation is only for energy efficiency.
Fact: Energy efficiency is a huge benefit of insulation — but it’s certainly not the only one. Soundproofing is another. Spray foam, batt, and blown-in insulation all offer sound transfer reduction, helpful both for keeping outside noise from infiltrating your walls and vice versa.
Myth: If my home needed insulation, it would have it already.
Fact: If you’re living in a home built before 1940, there’s a good chance you don’t have insulation, unless it’s been added in the ensuing years. But that doesn’t mean a drafty old house is your destiny. Although it’s easier and less expensive to insulate a home as you’re building it, there are options for already-constructed homes, such as blown cellulose and spray foam. Start by having a home energy auditor perform an assessment so you can see which areas of your house are most in need of sealing and what your best options are.
Myth: Installing new insulation requires tearing out walls.
Fact: Fortunately, you have options besides indoor construction. The best thing to do is remove some siding or shingles from the outside of your home to gain access for additional insulation.
Myth: I have to insulate my whole home to make a significant difference.
Fact: Sometimes it’s not feasible or cost-effective to insulate every last square inch of your home. Instead, focus on where the most air is being transferred out. That’s usually the roof, since warm air rises. If you have an uninsulated attic, that will likely be your best place to start. Add insulation to the rafters for finished attics and to the floor for those that are unfinished.
Insulating your home is a great way to protect your family from the elements. Call your Texas Farm Bureau Insurance Agent before you begin any home renovation projects, or if you have any questions about your optimal coverage.
Coverage and discounts are subject to qualifications and policy terms and may vary by situation. © 2017 Texas Farm Bureau Insurance
