How to Determine If Your Old Home’s Insulation is Working

Insulation in the attic, crawl space, and walls play an essential role in maintaining the comfort and energy efficiency of your home, especially in regions with extreme temperatures like Vermont and New Hampshire. However, many homeowners are unaware of the current state of their insulation and whether it's time for an upgrade. Vermont Foam Insulation is a trusted local insulation contractor that has been assessing and improving the insulation in Vermont homes of all sizes and ages — here is what we think you should know to help you determine if your home insulation is working effectively, and how you can go about upgrading it. 

Understanding R-Value

The R-value is a measure of an insulation material's resistance to heat flow. The higher the R-value, the more effective the insulation. However, many older homes, especially those built before the 1950s, likely have insulation with a lower R-value or insulation that has deteriorated significantly, making them less energy-efficient.

Signs of Inadequate Insulation

Several signs that may indicate that your home's insulation isn't performing optimally include:

• Drafty rooms

• Inconsistent temperatures throughout the house, 

• Cold floors

• Frozen pipes during winter 

• Ice dams

Moreover, if you are frequently adjusting your thermostat to stay comfortable or your heating and cooling bills are higher than they should be, your insulation might be to blame. Adequate insulation reduces the load on your heating and cooling system and consequently, your energy costs.

How to Upgrade Your Insulation

If you are looking for ways to make an old home energy efficient, upgrading the insulation using an experienced weatherization contractor or insulation installation company lays the groundwork for both comfort, and energy efficiency. With a building science and material expert at the helm of your insulation project, you can rest easy knowing that you are getting the right materials, installed correctly for your home’s unique design and efficiency challenges. 

Our insulation replacement process includes:

• A visual inspection and optional third party energy audit to assess insulation needs

• Insulation installation schedule for a later date

• Site prep

• Remove any excess moisture from attic materials

• Lay down plastic barrier in any bare earth crawl spaces

• Insulation installation 

• Spray foam 

• Blown in cellulose

• Spray foam drying and curing period 

The Case for Spray Foam Insulation

For older homes, especially those typical in Vermont and New Hampshire, upgrading to spray foam insulation can make a significant difference. When professionally installed by a knowledgeable contractor, spray foam can fill gaps and crevices other insulation types can't reach, effectively sealing your home against air leaks. This can result in fewer drafts, consistent indoor temperatures, protected pipes, and no ice dams.

An Ideal Time for Insulation Upgrade

If you're still considering whether it's time for an insulation upgrade, it's worth noting that there are several attractive rebates available, making now an excellent time to invest in new insulation. These rebates can offset the cost of upgrading, further adding to the financial benefits of lower energy bills.

As a Building Performance Institute (BPI) certified contractor, we have the expertise necessary to assess your home's unique insulation needs and provide the best solution. Furthermore, our association with Efficiency Vermont ensures our methods align with the latest industry standards for energy efficiency. Our company is registered in both Vermont and New Hampshire, making us the go-to choice for homeowners across both states. We can apply spray foam insulation in every season!

Is it time to upgrade the insulation in your home? Call Vermont Foam Insulation to schedule your consultation at .