Home insulation is extremely durable. And when cared for and installed correctly, it can have a lifespan of anywhere from 20 to 100 years, depending on the type of insulation you use and again how it is cared for and installed, and the conditions of the property and environment.
It stands to reason that when you get your home insulated, chances are it is not a job you need to address every few years, but what if you move into a home that is a bit older, or it has been a while since installation was installed, or you know it does not meet current standards or regulations? Chances are, you are going to be living with a few telltale signs that need updating, and it is time to upgrade or replace your home insulation.
More Noticeable Heat Fluctuations
If your home is not insulated properly, you are going to notice more extreme temperature fluctuation within the property for example in the winter if your attic insulation is not up to scratch, you will feel colder towards the top of the property and in the summer you feel warmer as the heat will rise and then radiate down to the upstairs room leaving downstairs feeling somewhat cooler.
Proper air sealing and insulation can help the heat and cool air stay where it belongs and where you need it, so you are not noticing these issues, and things feel cooler or warmer more evenly throughout.
Your Home Is Over 20 Years Old
Now, we did mention some insulation can be good for up to 100 years, but a good rule of thumb is if it is more than 10 years since installation or your home was built prior to 2005, it is worth getting it checked.
The reason is that energy efficiency was not taken into account or as seriously as it is today, meaning you might not have adequate levels, and you are under insulated despite having had the work done. You can get in touch with insulation companies such as Insulation Commandos to help you ascertain the level of insulation within your home and ensure it is at the right levels for increased energy efficiency.
Your Energy Bills Keep Rising
The impact of poor or underinsulated homes is a rise in energy bills. As the insulation fails to do what you need it to, you are going to consume more energy than before to get the same results or try to.
You will use more energy to heat your home and keep it at an even temperature and you are going to notice the same thing happening when you cool it too. This is due to the insulation allowing more air in and your HVAC needing to work harder to get the same results, putting more strain on that too.
You Have Pests
If you are noticing an increase in pest activity or debris that looks odd, ie: pink materials outside your home, you have critters that are demolishing your insulation, rendering it ineffective.
Even if you have not noticed visible signs of insulation debris or materials anywhere, if you have a pest infestation, there is a high possibility that you have already sustained damage to your insulation, so you need to get it checked out sooner rather than later.
