Blown-in Insulation: Benefits and FAQs

In Florida's heat and humidity, the benefits of blown-in insulation in your attic are undeniable, making life in paradise much more comfortable. This type of attic insulation is an excellent solution for enhancing your home’s heat resistance, effectively preventing unwanted heat from entering while retaining cold air inside during the warmer months, and doing the opposite in cooler seasons. Moreover, blown-in insulation is known for its energy efficiency, potentially lowering your energy bills by over 20% while extending the lifespan of your air conditioner. With the right amount of blown-in insulation in your attic, your air conditioner requires less energy to operate. Contact us today for more information.

What is blown-in insulation composed of? 

Blown-in insulation is most commonly composed of fiberglass, cellulose, and minerals. We only work with fiberglass insulation when quoting all our jobs. 

How does attic insulation work? 

Attic insulation is well-known for its significant benefits, especially in regulating temperatures within your home. The materials used in insulation create a thermally resistant barrier, helping improve energy efficiency in all seasons, whether hot or cold. Without attic insulation, it’s easy for hot or cold air to escape through your home's cracks. Installing attic insulation keeps cold air in during warmer months and warm air in during winter, enhancing your home’s comfort. 

How much insulation do I need? 

The amount of insulation required depends on several factors, including your location, the type of insulation, the attic space to be covered, your budget, and desired energy efficiency. The Department of Energy recommends a minimum R-38 level of attic insulation for homes in Florida. According to energystar.gov, “R-value is a measure of insulation’s ability to resist heat traveling through it.” A higher R-value indicates a greater resistance to heat transfer. Different regions have unique insulation requirements based on average climate conditions. R-value is determined by factors such as the type, thickness, and density of insulation, as well as temperature, aging, and moisture accumulation. Generally, one inch of blown-in fiberglass insulation has an R-value ranging from about 3.1 to 3.4. 

When to replace attic insulation? 

While new insulation can often be installed over existing insulation, there are specific scenarios that warrant complete removal: If the insulation is wet, moldy, shows signs of pest infestations, or was installed before 1990 and may contain asbestos. 

Can I replace my own insulation? 

While it’s possible to undertake many home projects independently, professional installation of insulation is highly recommended. There are potential hazards associated with installing blown-in insulation, such as fire risks and the danger of falling through ceilings. Our trained professionals can accurately assess whether there is too much or too little blown-in insulation and ensure proper installation, maximizing attic insulation benefits for your home. 

How much money can attic insulation save me? 

Calculating potential savings from attic insulation depends on variables such as house size, age, energy consumption, type of insulation, along with any available rebates and financing options. Generally, homeowners can expect to save between 11% to 20% on energy bills with upgraded blown-in insulation, directly contributing to better energy efficiency.