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Should I remove old insulation from my attic?

insulation cut and ready to be installed

Keep your home temperature regulated

If your home doesn’t have attic insulation on roof underside or on the floor of the attic, you are probably losing a lot of air conditioning and heating, which is costing you in energy bills. Every homeowner is always interested in saving money where they can, with energy expenses being the top money saver and an attic no insulation is the one thing many of them overlook.

Too many homeowners have questions, such as the validity of if attic insulation does it help and how much attic insulation is required to be an energy saver. As you continue reading this article, we’ll be answering frequently asked questions with helpful information, advice, and tips. By the end of this article, you’ll see how important attic insulation is and you’ll want to make sure your attic is sufficiently insulated. 

How thick should attic insulation be?

Having the right amount of insulation in the attic of your home is the number one way to reduce your energy cost. Attic insulation is rated in a measurement called R-Value which tells you how well it will work with a range of 2.0/inches to 8.0/inch. Cellulose and fiberglass R-Value ratings are 2.9/inch to 3.8/inch, while sprayed foam insulation can measure up to 8.0/inch. A higher R-value will do a better job of preventing heat to transfer. In simple terms, the average amount of attic insulation is about six inches. Don’t forget to insulate the attic door either!

How do I know if my attic needs more insulation?

A quick and simple way to know that your attic needs more insulation is to look at the floor for the attic. If you can see more than the top of the floor joists, you need attic insulation. If your home was built before 1970, you probably need attic insulation, but here are some indications that will confirm the need for you:

  1. Attic Troubles: While you’re up in the attic checking the attic insulation, do you feel or smell moisture?  Do you see where water has come through the ceiling, notice wet spots on the ceiling or the floor of the attic?
  2. Energy Bills Blasting: You do all the things you can think of to make your home cool or heat more efficiently and cut the AC and heat down. Sadly, nothing is working, and your energy bills keep increasing. Cooling and heating in your home are how you keep everyone comfortable, so you keep lowering or raising the thermostat to make it comfortable. Or do you notice the AC/Heat system is constantly running? These are both indications that your home needs attic insulation.
  3. Winter Wonderland: During the winter, does your roof have giant icicles hanging off the roof? While this may look pretty, it isn’t. They can damage the gutters and roof each time the heat rises and heats the attic. If the attic insulation is adequate, the heat will escape through the vents. If the attic insulation is insufficient, the heat will rise to the roof and melt the ice and snow and create ice dams and icicles.
  4. Cold and Hot Rooms: If one room in your home is a sauna, and another is like you’re in an igloo, that is a big red flag that your attic insulation is uneven. A home should not have any drafts if it is properly insulated. 
  5. The Current Insulation: If you find crumbly insulation while in the attic, it is expired and is not doing your home any good. Do not try to remove the attic insulation yourself, it always best to have a professional insulation contractor remove the attic insulation. They will have the equipment and gear to remove the old insulation.
  6. Cracks: If there are small cracks around the doors and windows, applying some caulk over those cracks to seal them is a simple fix. Sometimes a few small cracks are leaking enough cool air or heat to contribute to high energy bills.
  7. Pests: Lastly, mice droppings or like indications of pest infiltration can compromise your home’s structural integrity as the pest eat away at the attic insulation and structure. 

How long does insulation last in the attic?

The typical lifespan of attic insulation according to the International Association of Certified Home Inspectors says that spray foam insulation, house wrap insulation, and wrap tape can last up to 80 years or longer. Cellulose, foamboard, loose-fill, and rock wool insulation can last 100 years.

However, when the basic homeowner maintenance is ignored, the lifespan can be shortened. Attic insulation is durable, and the attic insulation made today is humidity and weather resistant.  to weather and humidity. Still, all insulation can be weakened by several factors, such as water damage that is left unattended, as mildew and mold can still form and corrode the exterior and interior attic insulation.

Additionally, puncture to the surface of attic insulation can render it ineffective. When cellulose, fiberglass, or other batt attic insulation falls, it creates “blank spots” where mold growth can harbor, it gets dirty and becomes less effective.

Can you put new insulation over old?

Unless the old attic insulation is wet, new insulation can be installed over old insulation. Any wetness will get trapped between the old and new it will mildew, mold and rot the attic floor and rafters.

How often should attic insulation be changed?

Even though attic insulation is said to last anywhere from 80 years to 100 years, it does lose effectiveness as its ages.  Insulation experts recommend replacing after 15 years to assure it is doing the job you need it to. Any time you have a leak in the roof, check the insulation if it has been affected and replace it necessary. It is only to a homeowner’s benefit to install attic insulation and keep it in good condition for energy savings and comfort within their home.  When the attic insulation in good condition, it saves the HVAC system from having to work so hard, and that will save the homeowner money by not having to get repairs or replacement. For your attic insulation installation in Fort Worth, TX, dial 817-781-8781 for ACT Home Energy Specialists!

When Should I Replace My Ductwork?

A Technician Checks Ductwork.

When should I replace my ductwork?

If you’re having problems with air quality or your utility bills seem to be climbing for no reason, you may have a problem with your ductwork, and you may wonder, “Can HVAC ducts be replaced?” The simple answer is, “Yes.” The next question you may have is, “When should they be replaced?” When it comes to HVAC duct replacement, age and wear are the primary reasons to put in new ductwork. 

How long does HVAC ductwork last? You may wonder, “Should ductwork be replaced after 20 years?” While it’s common to say ductwork lasts 10 to 15 years, some types of ductwork may last longer. Metal ductwork, for instance, can last much longer than 15 or even 20 years, while flexible ductwork has a varied lifespan.

While ductwork can last a long time under ideal conditions, even metal ductwork is subject to wear as it ages. Metal ductwork expands and contracts with temperature changes, which over time can create gaps and leaks. The same is true for flexible ductwork. Over time it can develop leaks. These gaps and leaks will reduce airflow and energy efficiency. The older the ductwork, the more likely you’ll have problems with airflow, which will begin to affect your HVAC system overall, causing it to work harder to heat or cool your home. This may lead to costly repairs and you’ll probably see your energy bills slowly creep up.

So, as a rule of thumb, if your air ducts are over 15 years old, you may want to have a professional check them out. A professional will be able to tell the condition of your ducts and better recommend whether or not they need to be replaced.

For HVAC duct replacement in Fort Worth, TX, rely on the professionals at ACT Home Energy Specialists. Find out how we can help you by calling 817-781-8781.

How long does flex duct last?

While many homes have metal ductwork, others have flexible ductwork or flex duct, and because it is less expensive than metal ductwork, it may be a cheaper alternative when it comes to HVAC duct replacement. Flex duct’s lifespan can vary. Much of its longevity will depend on the installation, but poor installation will affect your ductwork’s dependability no matter what type it is. As with other types of ductwork, have your flex duct checked by a professional after about 10 to 15 years or if you’re experiencing problems like poor indoor air quality or decreased airflow. 

HVAC duct replacement diy

Although it’s not recommended that you try to replace your whole home’s ductwork, with the right tools and skills, you may find it more convenient to replace a section. Here are some basic steps for diy HVAC duct replacement.

Steps to replace HVAC ducts

  • Remove old ductwork: The old ductwork needs to be removed to make room for the new duct. The new ductwork is attached to the vent box or plenum.
  • Secure and seal the duct: Attach the duct to the bottom of floor joists using plastic ties placed every few feet. Plastic ties are also used to seal the duct to the new box. Once in place, everything is sealed with aluminum tape.
  • Create a wooden frame to hold the vent in place: This frame may be necessary to hold the vent in place.
  • Fill in gaps between the floor and frame using insulated duct board: The duct board is cut to size and fit snugly onto both sides of the frame. The vent is further sealed with mastic adhesive cement.

Before you have your ductwork replaced in your attic, if you have any problems with roof leaks or moisture build up, roof inspections are a good way to check for problems with your roof that could affect your attic and your ductwork.

Is cleaning air ducts worth it?

While there isn’t much evidence that cleaning air ducts can help improve indoor air quality, there are some instances in which you might want to have them cleaned. If you’ve recently remodeled your home, you may want to clean the ductwork, especially if the ducts weren’t sealed during the renovation or if lead paint removal or asbestos abatement was involved.

Other reasons to have your ducts cleaned if you have evidence of animal infestation in the ductwork, if mold is present, or if contaminants are being released through the ducts after the registers have been cleaned. If someone in your household is suffering from an allergy-related illness and all options have been exhausted, you may want to look into getting the ducts cleaned.   

How much does it cost to replace HVAC ductwork?

HVAC ductwork replacement costs will vary. On average it will cost about $285 per duct run. The cost is based on the number of runs replaced, along with the length of each run, as well as the type and size of the ductwork. Costs can increase to as much as $550 per run if ducts in walls and ceilings have to be replaced.

Ductwork in a New Construction.

HVAC duct replacement near me

If you are in need of residential HVAC duct replacement in Fort Worth, TX, turn to the professionals at ACT Home Energy Specialists. We offer a wide range of replacement options. Find out how we can help or schedule an appointment by calling 817-781-8781.

What Is the Best Type of Insulation for an Attic?

Spraying Blown Fiberglass Insulation.

Different Types of Attic Insulation

When it comes to our homes, we want them to be as comfortable as possible. Usually the best solution for this is to turn on your heating system or AC when the temperatures start to change. However, while this does help, heat and cold air can make it into your home, making it where you turn up your HVAC system a little higher in order to reduce the cold or hot air that is coming in. This can increase utility bills by a lot, but there is a way to save money and keep your home comfortable at the same time. One of the best ways to ensure that cool or warm air doesn’t enter your home is with attic insulation.

A lot of people who aren’t familiar with this type of insulation will ask, “How attic insulation works?” Because our attic acts as a thermal resistant barrier, it helps keep thermal energy from coming into your home or from coming out. Basically, hot and cold air will not be able to come in at all with the help of insulation. Another question that people tend to ask about insulation for attics is, “Why attic insulation is important?” When cool or warm air is allowed to leave or enter your home, that makes your HVAC system work harder than it should. Not only can this wear down on the system, but it also make utility bills a lot higher. With the help of insulation, you can extend the life of your HVAC system while also saving money on your utility bills.

In terms of insulation for attics, there are a few types to choose from, which are cellulose, spray foam, loose-fill fiberglass, and fiberglass batts. A lot of people like to ask which one is the best, but it will really depend on a lot of factors. Knowing which type of insulation to get for your attic can be stressful, but when you call a company who does insulation for attics, they will be able to tell you which insulation type would be the best for your attic.

Does Attic Insulation Really Help?

If you think about the location of the attic, you will realize that due to its location, it can get very hot. The attic is right below the roof, which is in constant contact with the sun and other outside elements, so that can really affect the temperature of your home. Something that people always ask about insulation for an attic is, “Will adding insulation attic make difference?” and the answer is yes. Attic insulation acts as a barrier that will keep cool and warm air from both leaving and entering your home. This is helpful as it can reduce the temperatures in your home (or keep them the same) and also help you save money in the long run. Knowing if this type of insulation is right for you helps if you know about the attic insulation benefits.

  • Lower Bills: When an attic isn’t insulated, then it can waste a lot of energy and in turn cost a lot of money. Insulation can reduce utility bills.
  • Greater Indoor Air Quality: Air leaks in the attic can cause mold, dirt, and dust to make there way through your home, which compromises our air. With insulation, you can have better indoor air quality.
  • Better Protection: Moisture and heat can do a number on your home’s structure, but by investing in attic insulation, you can protect your home’s structure.
  • More Comfortable: Without insulation the temperature inside of our homes can become uncomfortable, which is why insulation is so important.
  • Prevent HVAC Wear and Tear: Your HVAC system has to work harder when cool or warm air enters or leaves your home. By getting insulation you can extend the life of your HVAC system and reduce HVAC maintenance.

Can You Over Insulate an Attic?

A Technician Spraying Blown Fiberglass Insulation in an Attic.

Can You Put New Insulation Over Old?

While insulation for attics is a good thing, there is such a thing as over-insulating an attic. When we use too much insulation, moisture won’t be allowed to leave our homes, which in turns cause mold growth and other indoor air quality issues. There has to be a good balance between insulation and ventilation, which is why you should call the experts at ACT Home Energy Specialists. We will be able to put in the correct amount of attic insulation in your Fort Worth, TX home, and answer questions about which is better, attic insulation vs radiant barrier. Many people ask, can you put new insulation over old insulation and the answer is yes if the insulation isn’t wet, but we can also offer attic insulation removal before we add new insulation. If you think you need new insulation and you are wondering, “How long does attic Insulation last?” you can rest assured that with proper insulation, you won’t have to worry about it ever again. Call us at 817-781-8781 to get the best attic insulation service in the area.

Do Radiant Barriers Really Work?

Close Up of Radiant Barrier Fiber Reinforced Foil

Radiant Barrier Information

Radiant heat, otherwise known as heat radiation is the best kind of heat transfer in relation to the other two methods of convection and conduction. Conduction involves direct transfer of heat like a stove heating a pot while convection involves surrounding heat from liquid or air heating something like with something in an oven or a being heated in a hot bath.  With radiant or heat radiation you can refer to a microwave as the kitchen analogy. Essentially heat is generated from the movement of the charged particle within an atom that is converted to electromagnetic radiation. Other such examples can be from materials or objects such as heat from light fixtures, floors or the sun. With a radiant barrier in a home, radiant heat will transfer through the air without heating the air itself. It will instead transfer to surfaces which will then re-radiate the heat in the space making it feel warmer. Here is some more Infomation about a radiant barrier that may prove useful for you.   

Does Radiant Barrier need air space?

As mentioned before a radiant barrier will work with air and without air space you won’t have radiant heat or a radian barrier. That is to say, the radiant barrier material, say if aluminum is involved would turn into a conductive heat object once the air is removed from the equation. Essentially, without the required air space heat, will work against its nature and increase heat flow.

What is radiant barrier made of?

A radiant barrier is made of highly reflective materials such as aluminum foil. The material is then applied to one or both sides of a substrate that can be plastic film, kraft paper, oriented strand board, cardboard or air infiltration barrier materials. Some of these options may even go further and be fiber-reinforced to increase durability and ease handling. As of such, a radiant barrier could be applied with numerous different insulation materials as a facing material.

Is spray foam a radiant barrier?

With radiant barrier vs spray foam insulation of the spray foam variety doesn’t protect from radiant heat but it will have the effects of conduction and convection. They won’t be as effective in keeping cool in the summer however when radiant heat is more powerful.

Can Radiant Barrier cause mold?

A radiant barrier can risk causing mold and other damages if not properly installed. Grime and dust buildup can come in the way of a radiant barrier’s ability to reflect heat and allow it pass on. If a property has leaking problems or too much condensation from improper air seals or poor vents than moisture is being collected in the house. If it’s the attic you have a confined space that will trap moisture on drywall and the radiant barrier. In the winter months, this condensation can be worse and form mold. These issues can be resolved as long as your vents and seals are in place as they should be. Problems of the mold with a radiant barrier are not caused directly by the barrier but by home systems that are having issues instead and affecting moisture levels in the air.

Attic Insulation Project Between Joists

Radiant Barrier Benefits

  • Reduce HVAC Costs
  • Stabilize Internal Temperature
  • Various Substrate Options
  • Can Be Fit To Any Roof
  • Efficient Installations

Does radiant barrier really work?

Studies show that a radiant barrier can lower cooling costs by 5-10% in warm sunny climates. Reduced heat can allow for smaller air conditioner systems and more energy conservation efforts as well. In cool climates, however, it’s usually more cost-effective to install thermal insulation that a radiant barrier. 

When To Use Radiant Barrier Insulation

A radiant barrier is a great way to improve on the comfort of your building’s temperatures in any season as essentially it works as any proper insulation should in being adaptable in any climate or season. Particularly harsh seasons like summer or winter however it will prove especially useful. The heat will move from hot areas to cold areas thereby reducing energy costs in the summer and the sheathing will prevent heat transference away from the interior during winter months.

Is radiant barrier worth it in Texas?

Essentially a radiant barrier can be useful in any climate, it’s essentially insulation and insulation is great in stabilizing temperatures inside of a building. As radiant heat is perhaps the highest in summer it can be great for warmer climates.

Contact A Professional 

Add radiant barrier benefits to your property with a roll-on foil barrier or other such material to improve your home or business’s insulation. Remember, it’s important that a professional install your radiant barrier with precision and care or you may run into problems down the road. When you require assistance, be sure to contact a professional as they will be able to conduct a roof inspection to determine the specifications and characteristics of your property. Look into your local residential or commercial roof installation services for professional care. Benefit from a radiant barrier today!

If you’d like to learn more about a radiant barrier in Fort Worth, TX call 817-781-8781 with ACT Home Energy Specialists!

How Do You Do A Home Energy Audit?

Hand Holding an Energy Efficiency Rating House Icon

Benefit From An Energy Audit

Your home uses a large amount of energy to keep your home systems operational, yet that doesn’t mean that you can’t make some key adjustments to soften the consumption of energy for a more green home environment. Average Americans spend around $2,060 a year on energy costs as seen by the Lawrence Berkely National Laboratory. Ultimately the amount of energy that you use will depend on the types of fuels used in your home be it from oil, gas, electricity to even wood in your fireplace. Each pulls on different energy sources and have different price rates when being used. A good way to determine what systems will work best with your preferences is to have an energy audit done with your home. This will determine what sources of energy have a high use and will let you know about the patterns of spending which can give you an idea of how to seek alternate forms of energy or at the very least modify your energy usage. Here is some more information about energy audits that may prove useful to you!

Should I get a home energy audit?

A home energy audit will help you assess your home to see where you’re losing the most energy and will give you recommendations on how to save energy and reduce your bills. With a professional audit, the time that is taken for completion will depend on the size of your home but you can expect anywhere from 30 minutes to 4 hours out of your day as a general rule of thumb.

Are energy audits free?

There are many energy service companies that offer free energy audits yet they will typically provide you with generalizations about energy use in your home. If you wish for more details there are other types of energy audit services that you can choose to assist with your home.

Energy Efficiency Home Model on Desk With a Businessman Calculating With Papers

How do you prepare for an energy audit?

An energy audit can be prepared for by knowing a few basic details regarding your home or business. It’s important to be present during an energy audit that way you can discuss concerns and provide informative details about your energy systems that may be of help for the overall results.

How To Prep For An Audit

  • Make a List of Problems
  • Prepare Copies of Energy Bills From the Past 12 Months
  • Be Present at the Audit
  • Know Your Average Thermostat Settings For Summer/Winter
  • Know Your Heating Sources & Fuel Types
  • Be Aware of Energy-Intensive Appliances

How can I make an old house more energy efficient?

There are a few things that can assist you in making your home more energy efficient. Once such way is to incorporate energy efficient light bulbs which pull on less energy while still producing bright lights. You could even use a lighting system that can adjust brightness and be dimmed by command as well, there are also options that light up only when an occupant is present in the room or given space. As far as the overall home, your HVAC system can be an indicator of higher bills. Believe it or not but your roofing ties a large hand into how hard your HVAC system performs. When your roofing’s insulation is not up to par in both cooling down or keeping a building warm your HVAC system will work harder in order to maintain stable temperatures. In order to conserve energy consider a roof inspection to make sure insulation is good or consider roofing materials with reflective properties as that can save you a large percentage of heating and cooling costs.

How can I improve the heat efficiency of my home?

A good way to improve the heat efficiency of your home is to check on the insulation of your roof as this can affect how your home retains heat. You may also choose to insulate your loft as this is another area that will affect heat distribution. Upgrading your boiler to a more energy efficient model can also be a good idea for better heat distribution and heat conservation. As far as interior design, thick curtains or thermal ones over windows or doors can prevent cooler temperatures from infiltrating your home and prevent heat from leaving your property.

Contact A Professional

When you are in need of an energy audit for home, energy audit for industry or an energy audit is required for your business consider relying on the services of home performance testing. Energy audit and conservation efforts are essential in maintaining proper system functions and proper energy consumption. With an energy audit, you can make beneficial strides to more energy efficient use that can be a great benefit to both the environment and your pocket! If you’d like to know more get in touch with a professional today!

If you’d like an energy audit in Fort Worth, TX call 817-781-8781 with ACT Home Energy Specialists!

Is it Time to Replace My Attic Insulation?

Old, Grimey Fiberglass Matt Insulation in the Attic

When to Remove Attic Insulation

The next time you sit comfortably on the living couch, consider all the effort that goes into making your home cool and cozy. Of course, we all know how much our comfort depends on a working heating and cooling system. But your family also relies on a protective shield that lies just above the ceiling: attic insulation.

It’s not something we think about everyday, but your attic insulation installation protects you from the heat that naturally builds up during daylight hours. As long as it remains thick and clean, you don’t have to worry about it. But how do we know when to replace insulation? Today, we’ll look into this crucial home element, how it works, and planning its replacement. You should have a deeper respect for your insulation afterwards! Let’s dive in.

How Attic Insulation Works

Throughout the day, sunlight warms the surface of the rooftop. Through a process known as conduction, that surface heat travels down to the underside of the roof, where it radiates into the attic. This heat gradually accumulates until the attic is swollen with heat. Two factors determine whether or not that heat then sinks down and spoils your cozy, conditioned air: ventilation and attic insulation.

While ventilation allows hot air to upwards through the rooftop, your attic insulation installation prevents heat from traveling through the floor joists and the ceiling drywall.

Cooling Factor

Does Attic Insulation Help With Cooling?

Yes! Insulation helps prevent the two processes that permit the transfer of heat. There’s conduction, which we mentioned earlier. There’s also radiation, where heat radiates outward from a given surface. Most forms of insulation deal with the first type. Radiant barriers target the latter form, but we’ll discuss that later.

In other words, insulation stops heat from sinking down into your living areas and tarnishing your conditioned air. That means shorter run times for your AC unit and subsequently lower electricity consumption. Will attic insulation make a difference? Absolutely! If you’ve been struggling with unusually high energy costs on your utility bill, better insulation could be a very cost-effective solution.

Longevity

How Long Does Insulation Last in the Attic?

Many professionals suggest that insulation should last 80 years or more, given ideal conditions. The problem with that figure is that many forms of insulation naturally degrade over time and gradually lose functionality. Blown-in systems get compressed, while matts start to pick up moisture and develop mold.

The odds of your insulation lasting for the full 80 years are slim. Which is why 20 to 30 year estimates often make more sense for homeowners.

Bottom Line

Is Attic Insulation Worth It?

So if your attic insulation installation is going to break down eventually anyway, is it really worthwhile in the first place? Definitely yes! Insulation not only protects your home from enormous would-be energy waste, it also prevents some pests from coming in through the ceiling. With the right insulation type, you could enjoy hundreds of dollars in savings every year.

Replacing That Old Insulation

So how do homeowners know when to replace their aging insulation? There are a number of signs to let you know it’s time. These include:

  • Pest damage
  • Low insulation levels (for blown-in)
  • Mold growth
  • Clear coverage gaps

Mold growth is a particularly strong sign it’s time for immediate attic insulation removal. The longer spores continue to reproduce in the attic, the more likely the growth will spread to other parts of your home.

Volume

How Much Attic Insulation Do I Need?

Blown-in and matt insulation should come up just above the joists in the floor. For types with higher R-values (such as polyurethane spray foam), you can sometimes get away with thinner layers. Consult with an expert to see how thick your particular type of insulation needs to be.

Types

Types of Attic Insulation

There are many kinds of attic insulation besides your average fiberglass matts and shredded newspapers (cellulose).

Types of Insulation for Your Attic

  • Blanket Insulation
  • Blown-in & loose-fill
  • Foam Board
  • Spray Foam
  • Radiant Barriers

The last two options are often utilized on the roof underside. Spray foam absorbs much of the heat conducted from the rooftop. Radiant barriers go the extra mile by reflecting heat out of the attic. This actually lowers the resting temperature of the protected areas by as much as 30 degrees, leading to some impressive energy savings.

Threats

Can Attic Insulation Get Mold?

Can attic insulation get wet? If the answer is yes, then there’s also a decent chance of mold development. Fiber matts and cellulose are particularly susceptible to mold growth following a roof leak, though spray foam and radiant barriers are often designed to resist it. If your attic insulation installation gets wet (no matter the type), be sure to dry out the area with fans as quickly as possible!

Installing Thermal Insulation Inside the Attic

Schedule Your Insulation Replacement!

Is it time to remove that old, underperforming attic insulation? Our team at ACT Home Energy Specialists would love to help you! Learn about all our local services, including attic insulation installation in Fort Worth, TX, by calling our friendly staff at 817-781-8781.