Replacing your attic insulation is not something most people think about. Not like replacing your roof shingles, your gutters, or your windows. Mainly because it is not something you see every day. But, replacing your attic insulation has the same impact. Old insulation will affect the energy efficiency of your home.

Most insulation will start to break down after 15 years. If you are not sure how old your insulation is, chances are it is the same age as your house. If your home if more than 15-years old, you may want to have someone inspect your insulation.

Signs your attic insulation needs to be replaced

The most obvious sign is when you see that your insulation is pulling away from the ceiling or walls or falling apart. When you see either of these issues happening, you know it is time to replace it.

Wet or Moldy Insulation – When you see signs of damp or moldy insulation, you will want to replace it. You will also want to have your roof/attic space inspected to look for leaks. Have all repairs completed before you replace your insulation. Not only can wet or moldy insulation be inadequate for your house, but it is also bad for your health. A few signs that indicate wet conditions in your insulation:

  • A visible sign is water leaks. Do you have any water stains on your ceiling or walls? These stains are an indication that there could be water leakage from your roof. You should inspect your insulation for any damage as well as your roof. If you find something on the roof, fix it and then replace the insulation.
  • You have a mold smell in your house. Mold smells are unpleasant and very noticeable. If you have an odd smell in your home, it could be mold growth.
  • Allergies. If you find that your allergies are worse in your home than out, you may have a mold issue.

Drafty Air – You feel cold drafts in your home. Drafty air is a sign that your insulation is no longer working correctly to keep outside air from coming in.

Heating & Cooling Issues – Your heater or air conditioner is struggling to keep your house comfortable. A properly insulated home will keep it energy efficient. When you invest in new insulation, you will see significant savings in your monthly energy bills.

Animals and Insects – Many animals find insulation to be as cozy as you do. They find that it makes for a perfect place to create nests. This includes mice, insects, and birds. When you have obvious signs of critters making a home in your insulation, you need to inspect it and replace all damaged areas.

Professional Help

It’s not always easy to inspect your insulation yourself. When this is the case, reach out to a professional.

When you have any signs of wet or moldy issues, it is best to reach out to a professional. These professionals are trained in removing all mold or toxins safely.