Your home’s insulation is important in protecting you against the elements. It’s not only a thermal barrier to help regulate your home’s temperature but also acts as a physical barrier to help keep out noise, outside contaminants, and pests. But does insulation go bad? Unfortunately, yes. When insulation is old or damaged, it becomes ineffective and needs to be replaced.
In this article, the experts at Winner Insulation discuss five signs that your Baltimore home or new build may need new insulation, along with the dangers of leaving these issues unaddressed.
Unpleasant Odors
Insulation can be highly absorbent, and smells can become increasingly obvious over time. This is typically due to exposure to water, animal waste, or chemical spills. Not only is the odor unpleasant, but it’s also a sign that your insulation is contaminated, which can cause structural damage and expose your family to allergens, mold, and pathogens.
Allergy Symptoms
Old insulation isn’t as effective at keeping out pollutants. Instead, dust and other allergens can accumulate and circulate throughout your home. Signs that you need new home insulation include allergy symptoms like sneezing, coughing, and itchy eyes. These symptoms are typically a result of compromised indoor air quality, which can trigger respiratory issues in some individuals.
Water Damage
Water damage is a major issue with insulation as moisture causes it to lose its insulating properties and poses a serious risk for mold growth. Homeowners may find water damage in attic insulation due to roof leaks or poor roof ventilation, whereas water damage in the wall insulation is typically caused by plumbing issues and leaks. Regardless of where it’s found, wet insulation is important to remove as prolonged exposure can lead to wood rot that threatens your home’s structural integrity and can also lead to mold and mildew.
Increase in Your Energy Bill
Over time, your insulation will become less effective at preventing thermal transfer. This will often translate to higher energy bills, as your HVAC system must work harder to maintain a comfortable, consistent temperature. If you’ve noticed a struggle to keep your home at the ideal temperature, replacing your insulation can provide a greater thermal barrier and help reduce your energy consumption.
Unwanted Pests
Unwanted pests like rodents, insects, and birds can easily infiltrate damaged and deteriorated insulation. These creatures like to nest in the insulation material and, in turn, leave droppings and urine behind. Not only does this contaminate your living space, but it can also create a fire hazard when pests chew electrical wires.
Why Choose Winner Insulation?
If your home, new construction, or commercial property needs expert insulation services, trust the team at Winner Insulation. Our team offers a wide range of insulation services and materials to help you achieve your project goals and protect your property. When you work with our team, you deal directly with the owner to ensure you get the highest quality care. This includes an always clean job site, on-time arrivals, and unmatched reliability for projects big or small.
Get a free quote for insulation services by calling Winner Insulation today!