Category: Blog

Man inspects installed insulation at home | Attic Insulation & Air Sealing by First Defense Insulation

Why Insulation Isn’t Always the Answer

Posted on | by scmedia

What is insulation?

Insulation is the material used to ensure maximum home efficiency by reducing heat flow. In relation to the comfort of your home, thermal insulation increases energy efficiency and reduces heat loss or gain by acting as a barrier between areas that are significantly different in temperature.?

 

Why isn’t insulation always the answer?

While insulation is truly vital to maintaining the temperatures and energy efficiency in your home, there could be other problem areas to check before assuming you need to completely re-insulate. If you?re experiencing one area in the home that has suffering airflow or the opposite, much colder than the rest of the home, there are a few things you can check!

 

What else should be considered?

  1. Air duct issues. Uninsulated, leaky ductwork will cause your HVAC system to be inefficient and will negatively impact your home’s comfort, especially if the ducts are in the attic.
  2. Sealing issues. Gaps and cracks in your home are an unavoidable part of homeownership. There are several reasons why these spaces form, but every home is subject to the airflow that can occur through these areas. Without proper air sealing, this air leakage will negatively impact your home’s comfort.
  3. Damage to your roof. Ice dams are a common side effect of poor attic insulation during the winter, and icicles on the edge of your roof are an obvious warning sign. Ice dams can lead to damage to shingles and gutters, as well as eventually cause roof leaks and water damage.

Ultimately, a home care report is necessary before making assumptions about the discomfort of your home. First Defense Insulation offers attic insulation in Houston with free home care consultations to assure you that we turn over every rock to assess any reason to be causing discomfort!?

The Do’s and Don’ts of Using Expanding Foam Insulation Around the House

Posted on | by John Blackwelder

Spray foam insulation installation is one of the worthwhile costs most homeowners undertake. The installation helps improve their properties energy efficiency, reduces sound transfer, deters rodents, and protects against common moisture problems.

Spray foams can be a DIYer’s best buddy, but this is only true when the DIYer uses the product appropriately. Manufacturers also encourage the use of spray foams, and this is evident in the proliferation of packaged spray foams contained in pressurized cans with a straw attached. The attached straw makes it easy to apply the expanding spray foam into gaps, holes, and crevices.

While there are different types of spray foams on the market, homeowners and DIYers should stay clear of Icynene. Icynene is a spray foam meant for professional installation. This type of spray foam is perfect for whole-house insulations and often requires specialized equipment.

Buying the Icynene may be a waste of your money and time, especially as they have rapid expansion properties that require professional training for a calculated outcome. On the other hand, Great Stuff is a good option for DIYers looking to seal cracks and address holes around the house.

While you now know the products that may likely work great around the house, it is equally important to know the dos and don’ts of spray foam insulation. Find out everything you need to know below.

Do: Check the Expiration Date on the Product Before Use

Expiration dates are not only valid for food items. We recommend checking the can of spray foam insulation for its expiry date before purchasing.

Buying an expired product can put you at risk, especially as you risk ineffective insulation or exposure to toxic chemicals. While most stores will clean their shelves to remove expired products, you should also confirm that they haven’t skipped some.

If you already have a spray foam insulation can at home, ensure it hasn’t expired before use. If it has expired, dispose of the can into your household waste.

Don’t: Avoid Using Spray Foams Around Outlets and Recessed Can Lights

Homeowners tend to go overboard, especially on their mission to make their homes more energy efficient. The zeal to make your home draft-free shouldn’t overtake important safety and health considerations.

Avoid using spray foam insulations around electrical outlets or recessed can lights. This is because the spray foam can quickly spread around the wires and enter the outlet box. This can make it challenging to address common electrical or wiring issues in the future.

You could set yourself up for huge electrical costs if you apply expanding foam around your electrical outlets. If you must seal holes and cracks around outlets, we recommend using a small fiberglass batt insulation around those areas for easy access.

Do: Use Spray Foams to Silence Noisy Water Pipes

Noisy water pipes can affect the quality of your life and sleep. Your expanding spray foam can come in handy to silence the rattling plumbing work when applied correctly.

Using the long straw attached to your spray foam insulation can access the plumbing area causing the nose and spray some expanding foam around the affected pipe. Doing this will silence the pipe by blocking the sound and locking it in. This can also be a great solution for a water hammer. A water hammer is a problem that occurs when the valve on the pressurized water line closes due to built-up pipe pressure.

Don’ts: Avoid Applying Spray Foams Around Windows

Windows and window frames are common culprits for raft air and heat exchange. In a bid to make their homes more energy efficient, most homeowners may be pushed to apply spray foam insulations around the frames and windows.

This is often a bad idea, especially as the spray foam may solidify and make it harder to open your windows. If applied when the windows are open, you may find it hard to close the window.

If you must apply spray foam insulation around windows, we recommend using low-expansion foams instead of high-expansion foams. Low-expansion foams can expand up to 30 times, while high-expansion foams can expand up to 300 times the liquid size.

For the window area, apply the low-expansion spray foam insulation cautiously along the affected area. This can significantly block heat exchange while also keeping your window functional.

Do: Have a Spray Foam Solvent Close By

Spray foam insulation starts as a pressurized liquid, after which they expand and solidify upon application and exposure. Homeowners often use a saw or other sharp objects to remove excess spray foams from application surfaces. However, they can sometimes drip and stain other unwanted areas during application.

The appropriate cleaning solvent can significantly improve your application process and prevent a messy outlook.

Unsure of which solvent to purchase? Ask questions at your local convenience store and the staff are likely to recommend what works for them or other customers like you.

Don’t: Avoid Using Spray Foam Insulation Around an Open Flame or Spark

Spray foams are designed to impede the spread of fires after they’ve been applied. However, the pressurized and liquefied form contains highly explosive components that should not be exposed to spark or fire.

We recommend that users pay attention to the application surface to avoid the risk of explosion. You should also avoid using the product in closed spaces like crawl spaces and under the cabinet. If you must, ensure that those areas are well-aerated and well-lit to improve your overall safety and reduce gas accumulation.

Another safety tip is to avoid smoking during spray foam insulation application. If using pilot lights or candles, ensure they are turned off before the insulation spray foam is applied. Also, give enough time for the spray foam gas to dissipate before lighting a match or starting a fire of any kind.

Do: Use Personal Protective Equipment When Applying Spray Foam

Safety is an important consideration when applying spray foam, especially in tight spaces. You should have appropriate personal protective equipment and gear, including eye goggles, face or nose masks, respirators to prevent gas inhalation and respiratory problems, and more.

We also recommend wearing gloves and the appropriate protective clothing to protect your skin from irritation when in contact with the spray foam in its liquid form. Other safety considerations include long sleeve clothing and pants, disposable gloves, appropriate shoes, and a cleaning solvent at arm’s length.

Following the above guide can significantly improve your spray foam insulation experience and help reduce draft air in your indoor space. If unsure, contact a Houston spray foam professional contractor now!

Name, Address and Phone

First Defense Insulation 

12 Greenway Plaza Suite 1147 Houston Texas 77046

713-808-9853

 

ductwork in vented attic houston, tx

Ductwork in the Attic- What Are We Thinking?

Posted on | by John Blackwelder

Poor Design 

Attics are the extreme opposite temperature of the air that ducts are trying to move to the home. Ducts are very poorly insulated with fiberglass insulation with the latest offering of only R-8.

Summer Issues

During summer months, Texas attics can reach between 125°F- 140°F. Demand on AC systems are severely increased. They have to run longer to make homes comfortable, which also cost more money! Ducts should be carrying nice cool 55° air to distribute to your home. Many times, ducts are placed in the attic and strapped next to the underside of the roof deck- the HOTTEST part of a home in summer. How do you expect 55° air to maintain temperature running through the ducts? Well, it doesn’t! Running cold air through an oven before distributing to the home is not energy efficient and cost you money.

Winter Issues

In winter, cold attics cool ducts and the air in them. In reverse of the summer months, the duct lines in winter are now re-chilling lines. Instead of 120°F air in the ducts, it may now only be 90°F- making homes more uncomfortable and more expensive to heat.

Duct Leakage

As you can imagine, ducts in our homes are very important. Ducts that are poorly sealed and insulated do not do us any favors reducing our energy bills. Ducts that have gaps, holes, or are torn leak air into the attic when the air handler is off. When turned on, the air is now a powered air leak! Air leaked into a vented attic is lost to the outside of the home from ventilation. Heating and cooling the home now becomes even more costly.

Fix The Problem

Air sealing stops leaks and keeps air inside the ducts where it belongs! First Defense Insulation Duct Encapsulation Services adds superior R-value protection to ducts keeping the adverse attic temperature from penetrating the air inside. The best solution is placing insulation at the roof deck to get the ductwork inside the homes thermal boundary. 

DIY Attic Insulation

DIY Attic Insulation Pitfalls

Posted on | by John Blackwelder

Insulating your attic can be a great way to increase energy efficiency and reduce your energy bills. Although it is best done by a professional, if you’re equipped with the right tools and knowledge, you can turn your attic insulation Houston TXproject into a DIY project. However, as with any DIY project, certain pitfalls can lead to costly repairs and wasted time if the DIY attic insulation needs to be corrected. 

In this blog post, we will discuss the potential pitfalls of DIY attic insulation and how to avoid them. We’ll also enlighten you about the numerous benefits of attic insulation. Read on to learn how to ensure your attic insulation project is a success. Let’s get started.

What Is Attic Insulation?

Attic insulation is a layer of material that is installed in the attic area of your home in order to create a barrier between the home and the outside environment. This barrier helps to keep the air inside your home at a comfortable temperature, as well as keep moisture from entering the attic and causing damage. Attic insulation is typically made from materials such as fiberglass, cellulose, or foam and can be installed either as a loose fill or as a batt or blanket.

Benefits Of Insulating Your Attic

Now that you know what attic insulation is, let’s take a look at some of the benefits of installing insulation in your attic:

Improved Energy Efficiency

Installing attic insulation can reduce the amount of energy used to heat and cool your home, which in turn can help you save money on your energy bills.

Enhanced Comfort

By keeping the air inside your home at a more comfortable temperature, attic insulation can help to reduce drafts and provide an overall sense of warmth and comfort.

Increased Durability

Since attic insulation helps to keep moisture out of the attic area, it can help to protect your home from potential damage due to extreme temperatures and moisture.

Improved Indoor Air Quality

By creating a barrier between the home and the outside environment, attic insulation can also help to reduce the levels of pollutants and allergens in the air inside your home.

Soundproofing

Installing attic insulation can also reduce the amount of noise that enters your home from outside.

Common DIY Attic Insulation Pitfalls

The key to enjoying the benefits of insulating your attic is to ensure that you avoid errors when insulating, especially if you’re taking up the project by yourself. In light of this, here are some common DIY attic insulation pitfalls and how you can avoid them during your DIY attic insulation project

Not Using the Right Insulation

The type of insulation you use in your attic is important. If you use the right type for your climate and needs, you could avoid ending up with a huge energy bill. Make sure you research the type of insulation that’s best for your area and read up on the R-value ratings and other technical details. 

Failure to Properly Seal the Vents and Gaps

Heat and air can escape through vents and gaps in your attic, increasing energy bills. To prevent this, make sure all vents and gaps are properly sealed with the insulation material. This can be done with caulk, spray foam, expanding foam, or other types of sealant.

Failure To Insulate The Attic Floor

Attics are often used for storage, but if the floor isn’t properly insulated, it can lead to heat and air escaping. Make sure you check the floor for any gaps and cracks and then fill them in with insulation

Not Checking for Moisture

Moisture is an enemy of insulation and can lead to mold and mildew. Before insulating your attic, make sure to check for any signs of moisture and repair any leaks in your roof

Not Installing Enough Insulation

Most attics require at least 12 inches of insulation to achieve the desired R-value. Installing enough insulation can lead to a comfortable home and wasted energy.

Be sure to understand these common problems and follow the tips for avoiding common DIY attic insulation pitfalls. However, if you still need to figure it out, it’s best to hire a professional to inspect your attic and ensure it’s properly insulated.

Benefits Of Hiring Professionals To Install Your Attic Insulation

They Have The Right Tools And Experience

Professional insulation contractors have all the necessary tools and know-how to do the job right. They have the expertise to ensure that the insulation is installed to the highest standards, and they can troubleshoot any problems that arise during the installation process.

Early Detection Of Any Potential Issues

A leaky roof, damaged HVAC system, and other issues need to be fixed before proceeding with the attic insulation. If these problems are left unattended, it’ll cause quick damage to your insulation. Thankfully, professionals understand these, and they know where to look to detect problems that can affect the effectiveness of your attic insulation.

They Can Help You Choose The Best Materials

Insulation materials are not created equally, and a professional can help you choose the best materials for your home. They’ll inspect your home and then choose the insulation materials that will keep your attic well insulated.

Quick Attic Insulation

With all the necessary tools and knowledge at the fingertips of the expert insulation contractor, you can be sure that your attic insulation will be done quickly and efficiently. This can save you time and money, and you’ll be able to enjoy the benefits of your insulation sooner.

Correct Insulation

Professionals will ensure that the attic insulation is installed correctly and properly sealed and ventilated. This helps ensure that your home’s energy is efficient and that the insulation is doing its job.

Warranty Protection

Most professional insulation installers will offer a warranty on their work. This can provide you with peace of mind that if anything goes wrong within the warranty period, it’ll be rectified by the installer without having to pay any extra fee.

By hiring professionals to install your attic insulation, you can rest assured that all the pitfalls peculiar to DIY attic insulation will be avoided. You can learn more about attic insulation here; https://fdinsulation.com/attic-insulation/spray-foam/. We also offer spray foam insulation financing opportunities, to make your investment less stressful.

 

Name, Address, and Phone

First Defense Insulation, 

12 Greenway Plaza Suite 1147 Houston, Texas 77046, 

713-808-9853

 

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diagram of the home after installation of spray foam in Houston

Residential Insulation: Why Choose Spray Foam

Posted on | by John Blackwelder
For homeowners considering residential insulation upgrades, spray foam provides an outstanding option for superior energy efficiency and comfort. As a company, we offer insulation financing to make your life easier. Not only does it act as a complete air barrier, sealing everything from small cracks to larger spaces in walls and floors, but spray foam has one of the highest insulation R-values on the market. In this article, the attic insulation contractor in Houston will explain why you should choose spray foam for your next residential insulation project. Let’s start by first understanding what spray foam insulation is.

What Is Spray Foam Insulation?

Spray foam insulation is a thermal insulation polyurethane foam (SPF) product spray-applied in liquid form into wall cavities, attics, and other parts of a home. As the foam expands, it forms an airtight seal that helps to keep heated and cooled air inside the home while preventing drafts, heat loss, and air infiltration. A spray foam insulation’s high R-value makes it one of the most efficient and effective insulations. The R-value measures the insulation’s capacity to withstand heat flow, and the higher the R-value, the greater its insulating power. With an R-value of up to 6.5 per inch, spray foam is much higher than traditional insulation materials like fiberglass and cellulose.

Types Of Spray Foam Insulation

Spray foam insulation comes in two types – open cell and closed cell. Let’s look at them in detail.

Open-cell foam

Open-cell spray foam is a lightweight, flexible insulation material filled with air, giving it a spongy texture. It’s typically used in residential projects and has an R-value of 3.5 per inch.

Closed-cell foam

Closed-cell foam has an R-value of 6.5-7 per inch and is made up of tightly packed cells that are highly resistant to air leakage and water vapor penetration. It’s much more rigid than open-cell foam, so you should go for it if you’re looking for extra air sealing and insulation.

Benefits of Spray Foam Insulation

Now that you know what spray foam insulation is, let’s look at its benefits.

Its Moisture-Resistant

Pipe fittings and vents are vulnerable areas for moisture accumulation due to the open spots that may be present around them. Thus allowing water to seep in. Fortunately, spray foam insulation can form an effective barrier against moisture buildup. Due to its ability to penetrate tiny cracks and crevices, spray foam is thus highly effective. Besides, it remains functional even when wet, unlike other insulating materials that may need replacing when they get wet.

Improve Building Strength and Durability

As an inert material that firmly adheres to the roofing structure of a property, spray foam insulation will help to strengthen your property by helping to keep the roofing components together. This is quite helpful if you live in an area prone to strong winds that can lead to the uplift of the roofs. Spray foam insulation can also enhance the slope of your roofing structure, thus improving water drainage and reducing the likelihood of water damage.

It’s Energy Efficient

A home’s running costs can be significantly impacted by heating and cooling expenses. By choosing spray foam insulation, you can help reduce these costs as it provides a superior air barrier that helps to retain heat in winter and cold air in summer. For instance, you can expect energy savings of about 50% if you install closed-cell foam insulation in your attic.

Easy To Install

The ease of applying spray foam insulation makes it appealing. You only need a specially designed gun attached to a hose connected to a foam-containing press container. However, it’s prudent to use a professional installer’s services to ensure the process is done correctly.

Long Life Span

Spray foam insulation is composed of biologically inert materials. This quality makes it durable and resistant to biological growth like mold, which can compromise its integrity. This makes it an excellent option for long-term air sealing and insulation. With minimal maintenance, spray foam insulation can last 80 to 100 years, thus helping you save money on energy bills year after year.

Improves indoor comfort

By creating an airtight seal around your home, spray foam insulation can help to eliminate drafts and cold spots. Thus creating a comfortable living space that doesn’t have the challenges of fluctuating temperatures. In addition, limiting drafts of air also improves the air quality in your home. This can be beneficial to those suffering from allergies and respiratory problems.

Improve sound resistance

Imagine the noise pollution of living along a busy street or having neighbors who like their music too loud. Fortunately, spray foam insulation can help you create an effective barrier against external noise. The foam’s sound-absorbing properties can help to reduce the overall noise levels. So spray foam insulation is an excellent option if you want to enjoy more privacy or peace and quiet in your home.

It’s good for the environment

Due to its longevity, homes with spray foam insulation will require less use of consumable insulation materials over time. Thus making it ideal for reducing your carbon footprint. Moreover, its ability to prevent air leakage also helps reduce the energy needed to heat or cool a home. As a result, fossil fuel-based energy emissions can be reduced.

An Investment For Your Home or Building</h3>

Depending on where you stay, installing spray foam insulation may qualify you for rebates and tax incentives. And the reduction in utility bills over the long term will help offset the upfront costs. Besides, a well-insulated home also attracts a better resale value. Investing in spray foam insulation makes your home more durable and energy efficient. It also offers soundproofing capabilities and improved indoor comfort. Additionally, its environmentally friendly properties make it a great option for those looking to reduce their carbon footprint. If you’d like to upgrade your Houston spray foam insulation give us a call now! You can enhance your home’s comfort by working with us.

Name, Address and Phone

First Defense Insulation,  12 Greenway Plaza Suite 1147 Houston Texas 77046,

Does Spray Foam Insulation Burn Easily?

Posted on | by John Blackwelder

One of the questions people ask when choosing spray foam insulation Houston, TX, is whether spray foam insulation is flammable. While it may not look like a significant question, most homeowners want to know if spray foam insulation is flammable, as fire safety is vital in any home. The right insulation can make your house feel safer and more energy efficient.
More people are turning to spray foam as a home insulation option, and it’s hard not to see why. First, spray foam is non-toxic. It is also an effective insulation solution. So, let’s find out about fire safety.

Is Spray Foam Flammable?

Yes, spray foam is flammable; However, it only burns and ignites if exposed to an adequate heat source. Spray Foam usually self-extinguishes when the heat source is removed.
Spray Foam manufactures send their products for testing before their products are available to the marketplace. After testing, a Code Compliance Research Report (CCRR) is provided. This report shows the foams Flame Spread Index and Smoke Development. Building codes dictate how spray foam should be protected by an ignition barrier or thermal barrier. Barriers commonly used include drywall or tested coatings that go over the foam.
Depending how the end user configuration of the space is completed will dictate what path your installer will need to take to ensure code compliance is achieved. Considering spray foam in Houston, Tx? Our team of experts understand code compliance and can guide you in ensuring you are covered by the correct products.

Is Spray Foam an Excellent Insulation Option for your Home?

Despite being flammable, spray foam is still an excellent insulation option for your home. Here’s why spray foam is an excellent solution:

Roofing and Exterior Applications

One of the primary reasons spray foam is the go-to insulation is that it is effective in sealing roofs and other exterior areas in the home. Spray foam creates a powerful bond with the roof and helps strengthen the resistance to pressure and wind. It also reduces sound as it creates a barrier against loud noises.

Attic Applications

Spray foam expands. This expansion feature enables the insulation to fill up all the holes and cracks in crawlspaces and attics. By creating an airtight seal, the insulation makes your attic less penetrable to air infiltration. This insulation also gives your attic a moisture barrier by keeping water from seeping through crevices, holes, and cracks.

Interior Cavity Fills

Spray foam insulation provides better protection against mold and mildew. The polymer contained within the spray foam material creates a barrier from moisture, which ensures that there is no food source for bacteria or mold.
The walls of any building are its main structural component, as they help it withstand any amount of force, like strong winds. The spray foam insulation fills the wall’s interior cavity and efficiently provides additional strength and support to the building.
While every type of insulation is flammable, it still doesn’t impact spray foam’s benefits. Therefore, ensure that you don’t expose your spray foam to any external heat source and keep your family and loved ones safe. But if you are looking for further information on how spray insulation works, you can read about how insulation works.

First Defense Insulation
12 Greenway Plaza Suite 1147 Houston Texas 77046,
713-808-9853

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https://www.instagram.com/firstdefenseinsulation/?hl=en

 

Four Essential Spray Foam Safety Tips

Posted on | by John Blackwelder

When it comes to applying spray foam insulation, getting an effective result should not be the only thing you aim for. You must also take safety seriously. Trained spray foam insulation contractor Houston understands the dangers of misusing spray foam. This is why they make sure to educate people who plan on going the DIY way.

If you are considering DIY spray foam insulation, here are some essential safety tips to follow.

Use Respirator and Goggles

The first step to ensuring safety while installing your spray foam is using proper Personal Protective Equipment (PPE). The recommended respirator is a full face fresh air mask.

Protect Your Body

Asides from your eyes and nose, other parts of your body also need protection during spray foam installation. This is because spray foams are aerosols designed to stick and expand on surfaces. Therefore, your skin should be well protected before carrying out the installation process. You can do this by wearing a disposable overall that leaves no part of your skin exposed. It should come with a hood to protect the other parts of your face that are not protected by the goggles and respirator. It is also necessary to use disposable, hand and wrist covering gloves to carry out this task. Taping your gloves to your sleeves is a great way to ensure that they don’t slip off while working.

Prepare The Workspace

Before starting work, you must ensure that everyone not in protective gear has vacated the building. For safe and effective spray foam insulation, you also have to consider the safety of others. You must also ensure that the surfaces that you are applying the spray foam on are dried. Spraying a surface with a moisture rating of over 18% will lead to improper adhesion. To effectively measure the surfaces’ dryness level, you may need a moisture meter.

Always Have A Spray Plan

For an effective result, you will need a spray plan. This plan should include how the spray will be applied, the locations that it will be applied on, and when the building can be reoccupied again. You should ensure that your spray tanks are at the right temperature— 75°F-85°F. You should also check if the spray contents are coming out evenly by first pointing the gun into an empty bag.

Generally, after installing your spray foam, unprotected people will have to wait for up to 24 hours before re-entering the premises again for their safety.

To know more about spray foam insulations and others, make sure to visit https://fdinsulation.com/attic-insulation/spray-foam/

First Defense Insulation
11715 Anderson Road
Willis Texas 77318
713-808-9853

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Common Attic Insulation Problems And How to Solve Them

Common Attic Insulation Problems And How to Solve Them

Posted on | by John Blackwelder

Attic Insulation is very vital for lowering your home’s energy bill and keeping you comfortable all year round. So, if it’s lacking, you should consider contacting a company offering Attic insulation in Houston, TX to help you insulate your home. However, if you notice your energy bills are still on the rise despite having insulation, there are likely to be some faults with your insulation. 

Your home’s Insulation may develop some issues over time due to age, environment, or lack of proper maintenance and become less effective. Here, we’ll explore common faults homeowners experience with their insulation and how to fix them. Quality should always be primary especially if you want to benefit from grants and insulation financing opportunities.

Common Attic Insulation Problems and How to Solve Them

Missing or Inadequate Attic Insulation

Not installing your insulation properly can increase the humidity in your attic, enhance mold growth, allow pests to enter your attic, and so on. It can also cause your home to be uncomfortable during cold and hot seasons since hot or cold air can easily seep into your home. In addition, your HVAC will have to work harder to regulate your home’s temperature, which will significantly increase your energy bill. Some areas where insulation may be inadequate include attic entrances, vents, windows, skylights, etc. 

  • Solution 

To ensure that insulation is not lacking or inadequate in any part of your attic, have a local insulation contractor examine your home. Experienced contractors will know the weak areas in your attic and ensure that they are properly insulated for maximum effectiveness. 

Uneven Attic Insulation

When installing your attic insulation, you should make sure that the material is properly laid in every area. If you’re using blown-in insulation, you should pay attention to how it is laid. That is because, despite blown-in insulation being easy to install, they are rarely distributed evenly across the attic. This can reduce its effectiveness and also increase your energy bill. 

  • Solution

Although some homeowners can try installing their insulation themselves, there are higher chances that it won’t be installed properly. The best way to avoid unevenly layered insulation is to hire an insulation contractor to do the installation.

When you work with an insulation contractor, you can be assured that the insulation will be distributed evenly and work effectively to maintain your home’s temperature. 

Blocked Attic Ventilation

If you’re using the traditional insulation type, your attic needs to be well-ventilated. 

If the vents in the attic are blocked, there will be inadequate airflow which may lead to mold or mildew growth. This is extremely hazardous as mold spores can cause several health issues when inhaled. 

  • Solution

When installing your insulation, make sure they are not obstructing the air vents in the attic. If they already are, you can have an insulation contractor rework your insulation. 

Collapsed Insulation

Attics make for good storage spaces. However, the kind of items you store in your attic can affect its effectiveness. For instance, stacking heavy boxes or bulky items can compact your insulation or cause it to collapse completely. When your attic insulation gets compacted or collapses, it reduces its  R-value. That is, it becomes less efficient in maintaining your home’s temperature, which makes your home less energy efficient. Alternatively, with a high R-value, your insulation will be able to maintain your home’s temperature throughout the different seasons of the year. 

  • Solution 

The best way to prevent your insulation from collapsing is to avoid storing heavy items on top of the insulation. You can invest in other attic storage options that won’t impact your insulation over time. You can also consider storing heavy items on solid flooring rather than atop your insulation. 

Pest Infestations

Your attic can become a perfect space for pests to nest, especially if your attic is not finished properly or the insulation is inadequate. Common pests that you can find living in your attic are Birds, Rats, Squirrels, Raccoons, Spiders, Mice, etc. Pests such as rats, squirrels, and raccoons can be detected easily as they can create sounds that can be heard from outside the attic. Other pests, such as insects, are not easily noticed and are more challenging to deal with. 

  • Solution 

Pest infestation in your attic is mostly due to gaps or holes in your insulation. To solve the problem, first, contact a local pest extermination company to get rid of the infestation. Then find the areas where insulation is missing, and block them off with replacement insulation barriers or spray foams to prevent pests from entering the attic or consider changing the insulation entirely. 

Ice Damming

People that live in colder climates are more likely to experience ice damming. Although ice damming doesn’t happen in your attic, they can be a sign of faulty attic insulation. Ice damming happens when the snow melts on your roof and re-freezes at the edges of the roof. Asides from creating hazardous icicles on your roof, ice dams can also cause extensive damage to the roof itself. 

  • Solution 

Ice damming often occurs when there is inadequate attic insulation. Attics can get too cold during the winter if it is not properly insulated. This contributes to frozen sheets and icicles forming on your roof. To get rid of the ice dams, you can contact professionals that provide ice dam steaming to remove the frozen sheets for you. Once the winter is over and the weather becomes more favorable, you can look into improving your attic’s insulation. 

When the temperature in your home becomes uncomfortable for you and your family, and your energy bills begin to skyrocket, it’s a sign that there’s a problem with your attic insulation. Look no further; take the next step by getting an insulator contractor to solve your insulation problems. When you work with insulation experts, you can trust your insulation to serve you well in the coming years. 

Suppose you don’t know where to turn to for help with your attic insulation; you can visit https://fdinsulation.com/. 

 

Name, Address, and Phone

First Defense Insulation, 

12 Greenway Plaza Suite 1147, 

Houston, Texas 77046, 

713-808-9853

 

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Advantages of Removing Old Attic Insulation

Posted on | by John Blackwelder

Whether you like it or not, at some point, you will need to remove your old attic insulation. In case you don’t know, having old insulation in your attic is a major cause for concern. Not only does it compromise your home energy consumption rate and overload your HVAC system, but it also has several health ramifications.
Importantly, not taking care of your old attic insulation will also make any needed insulation measures redundant. This is why it is quite important that you have them removed before getting in touch with a spray foam insulation contractors Houston.
Meanwhile, here are some of the advantages of removing your old attic insulation.

Prevention of Moisture Problems

Moisture control helps to reduce the amount of energy required to heat and cool the home, thereby reducing cost. However, old attic insulation such as fiberglass absorbs moisture and can allow it to leak into the ceilings, floorboards, baseboards, and walls. Leading to high energy consumption.
Moisture problems also affect the effectiveness of your insulation and air sealing efforts. Although moisture can be controlled by ensuring proper ventilation, leaving the old attic insulation after spray foam insulation will make the attic cooler during winter. This negates the effect of spray foam which is to give the attic a conditioned and warmer space.

Improved Air Seal

Spray foam does not only insulate the home; it also acts as an air barrier. When handled by professionals who can get the spray foam in the major areas, such as the eaves, where air leakage occurs, it insulates and reduces air leakage in the home by acting as a seal tight against air.
However, leaving the old attic insulation interferes with the spray foam insulation. When spray foam is mixed and applied, it enlarges and gets into every nook and cranny of the attic, thereby creating a barrier against air. Leaving the old insulation prevents this purpose and hinders the spray foam from getting into the cracks and crevices. This is because spray foam insulation should be done in a clean space to adhere properly.

Improved Indoor Air Quality

Since the old insulation contains debris, dust, rat poop, food remains, and a whole lot of other dirty things, is it not best to remove it? Considering the fact that anything could be hiding in the old attic, it’s ideal to get rid of it before the spray foam insulation.
Leaving the old attic may also affect the quality of air that enters the home. The dirt and dust contribute to air pollution. This is a big risk to the health as the pollutants may contain volatile organic compounds as well as fine particles. These two indoor pollutants enter deeply into the lungs and gradually into the bloodstream.
Leaving the old insulation reduces the quality of air in your home since the odor is in your conditioned space, and you now have direct access to it.

Improved Health

Before deciding on leaving the old attic insulation, consider the health hazards associated with doing so. Cellulose and fiberglass absorb allergens and moisture that lead to the growth of mildew and mold. The presence of molds and mildew in the home is a big risk to every living thing in the home, including pets.
Leaving the old attic insulation can also mean creating better habitat and source of food for squirrels, rats, bats, and so on. These rodents and pests love dark and cool spaces, which is why the old attic is perfect for them. They also come with different diseases that can be a threat to your health.

Improved Air Circulation

Spray foam insulation helps to protect the roof, gives the attic a conditioned space, and prevents drafts in the attic. This helps to cool and warm your indoor space as required. To enjoy this benefit, there must be a free flow of air. Unfortunately, the presence of a layer of cellulose or fiberglass insulation on the attic floor hinders its circulation.
Also, lack of proper circulation of air may prevent some home appliances like the HVAC from working effectively. This is because more power will be required to make them absorb and release air back into the house; hence, they wear out faster than normal. This will increase the cost of maintaining them.

Factors That Can Compromise The Lifespan Of Your Insulation

Whatever type of insulation you have installed in your house, it is still prone to some harm. So you need to keep this in mind and make sure to avoid things that could compromise your insulation. Meanwhile, here are some common factors that could compromise your insulation and render it ineffective.

Water Damage

Since most insulation materials are made from fibrous and porous material, water becomes a natural enemy. Unfortunately, getting water out of insulation material is almost impossible. So once water gets into your insulation system, prepare to change it sooner than you should.

Fire Damage

After experiencing a fire accident, one of the key things fire remediation companies will do is to replace your insulation. When exposed to fire, most insulation material will start to shrink and break apart, rendering it inefficient.
Importantly, even if the fire didn’t touch the attic insulation directly, smoke can still get trapped within the insulation. This will inevitably lead to a pungent smell circulating all through the home. So after a fire accident, you should remember to include changing your insulation as part of remediation plans.

Pest Infestation

Pests are another major factor that could lead to damage to your insulation. When rodents like rats, raccoons, and squirrels target your home, they usually eat through any protective wall you may have installed. This will end up compromising the integrity of any installation you may have within the walls: such as your insulation material. So after pest extermination, you must always check your insulation.
In conclusion, all old attic insulation should be removed before applying a new one, no matter the cost or inconvenience. Without doing this, it may be difficult to enjoy the numerous benefits of new spray foam insulation. You can learn more about spray foam insulation by visiting our website here: https://fdinsulation.com/attic-insulation/spray-foam/.

First Defense Insulation,

12 Greenway Plaza Suite 1147 Houston Texas 77046,

713-808-9853

 

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Can I Be Inside My Home During the Foam Insulation Installation?

Posted on | by John Blackwelder

Foam ranks among the most popular insulation choices across the U.S. Not only is it effective at blocking out heat and cold, but it also helps reduce noise levels and prevent mold growth. However, some people have concerns about the safety of foam insulation installation. As such, you might harbor some reservations if you’re casting about for spray foam insulation Houston.
You might be wondering, can you or your pets be inside your den while the installer does their thing? It depends. Generally, when installed correctly, foam insulation poses no risk to human health.
The key is to install it properly, using the correct type of foam and following all manufacturer instructions. Foam insulation can provide years of safe, reliable performance. Here’s a breakdown of some variables that could determine whether it’s safe to hang around your house as a pro installs spray foam.

Ventilation

When installing foam insulation, ventilation is key to ensuring a successful process. Without proper ventilation, the chemicals in the foam can become concentrated and cause health problems for those in the surrounding area. In addition, the build-up of heat can cause the foam to expand and potentially damage the structure.
Open windows and doors to enable the circulation of fresh air. By ventilating the area during and after installation, you can help ensure the chemicals are properly diluted and that the foam will harden correctly.
In addition, ventilation helps prevent any harmful fumes from accumulating. As a result, taking a few minutes to ensure proper ventilation can safeguard your family’s health in the long run.

Curing Time and Off-gas

Off-gassing has to do with the VOCs in the spray foam. Typically, a product with a high VOC will result in a longer re-occupancy time (as long as 48 hours).
RetroFoam, for instance, is easy to apply and cures in about two hours, transforming into a rigid state over time. As a result, it’s an excellent choice for creating an air-tight seal on concrete block walls.
If you’re a little apprehensive, you may consider leaving your house while the foam insulation cures, and there is no need to worry about fumes or VOCs. Fortunately, with reduced re-occupancy time, you would be back in your den in no time! And once the foam cures, it won’t continue emitting an odor- as some people mistakenly believe.

The Type of Foam You Use Matters

Each insulation material on the market has its pros and cons. For instance, fiberglass is a popular choice for many homeowners because it is relatively affordable and easy to install. However, fiberglass can be challenging to work with and may not provide enough insulation for frigid climates.
Another common insulation type is cellulose, made from recycled newspapers and other paper products. Cellulose is an environmentally friendly option, but it can be flammable and is not as effective as other types of insulation.
RetroFoam is another option gaining popularity due to its safety and effectiveness. It is injected into walls, so it does not require cutting or drilling. Plus, it contains a small amount of volatile organic compounds (VOCs), making it a safe option for homes with children or pets. And while RetroFoam may be more expensive than other types of insulation, it provides superior insulation value and will help reduce energy costs over time.

Steer Clear of the Work Site

Full disclosure, during the application, spray foam produces a slight odor. Since this can be a little off-putting, your contractor may set up a fan in the work area to promote airflow. By so doing, they air out where they’re installing spray foam.
Plus, it’s best to stay away from the work site. The chemicals used in the spraying process can be harmful if inhaled, and it’s essential to give the crew plenty of space to work. If possible, use other rooms in the house or go outside until the job is done.
Hovering can be a safety hazard. It can be very distracting and even unsafe if a worker is trying to focus on their work and has someone constantly in their peripheral vision.
In addition, the professionals know what they’re doing and can complete the task quickly and efficiently. If you’re in the way, it will only slow them down and potentially cause problems.
So, while you don’t need to leave your home during the installation, it’s probably best to take a step back and let the experts handle it. You can always ask questions before the project commences or afterward. But, due to safety and efficiency concerns, it’s best to let them work uninterrupted.
Fortunately, we use spray foam products with the most negligible concentration of VOCs. As a result, even if you’re in the home during the installation, you’ll only notice a slight smell, which dissipates in as little as two hours (as we’ve noted before).

Proper Insulation Is Critical

Most people are conversant with the basic idea of insulation- wrapping your home in a material that will keep the heat in during winter and out in summer. As such, it might be tempting to hire the first contractor who offers to get the job done. After all, it does seem straightforward, right?
Well, that could not be further from reality. Foam insulation isn’t for everyone. For instance, the task can be a fool’s errand without the proper equipment and know-how.
Once you’ve decided that foam installation is necessary, the next step is to find a qualified and experienced professional for the job. You may also need to remove your old insulation material, and often the complex and potentially dangerous process is best left to a trained insulation contractor.
Such professionals understand the nuances of insulation removal in Houston. Thus, they can handle the job without damaging your home or harming you and your family. They also know how to properly dispose of insulation, which is vital from an environmental and health perspective.
Contact a pro for assessment and proper insulation. Getting the job done right means avoiding health hazards and saving money in the long term. Our spray foam insulation installers will work with you to ensure your safety and the quality of the installation. Check us out at https://fdinsulation.com/attic-insulation/spray-foam/ to learn more or for assistance in selecting the ideal type of insulation material.

First Defense Insulation,
12 Greenway Plaza Suite 1147, Houston, TX 77046,
(713)808-9853

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