Factors That Affect the Lifespan of Your Insulation

Living with inefficient insulation will have you dealing with higher energy bills and a house with inconsistent temperatures. Insulation is an important part of any home. It can’t last forever, but certain circumstances can cause your insulation to die out earlier than it should. The following factors can affect the lifespan of your insulation.

Pests

The presence of rodents, bugs, and other animals can lessen the lifespan of your home’s insulation. They get inside your attic and walls, burrow their little bodies into the insulation, and compromise its integrity.

Not only can they ruin your insulation, but pests can also ruin your home’s foundation. The subsequent repairs are expensive and can pose dangers to you and your family. Pests could also chew through electrical wires, leading to increased fire risks.

If you’re dealing with a pest infestation in your home, you’ll need to replace and upgrade the insulation immediately. Doing so will remove any pests, allergens, eggs, and diseases.

Water Damage

Water damage greatly affects many different types of insulation, causing it to work less effectively and forcing you to pay higher energy bills. Water damage also leads to mold growth, which puts your family at risk for health hazards. Water damage affects different types of insulation in the following ways:

• Fiberglass insulation: Water gets into the air pockets and reduces its ability to slow the transfer of heat.
• Cellulose insulation: Mold can grow in the insulation if a large enough portion is wet.
• Spray foam insulation: This insulation provides a moisture barrier, so you won’t need to worry about the insulation itself. However, pay attention to water damage in the surrounding wooden elements.

If water ruins your home’s insulation, replace it quickly.

Severe Weather Events and Fires

Hopefully, this is something you never have to live through, but your insulation will need replacing if your house suffers a fire or is struck by a natural disaster. Obviously, you’ll have more significant things preoccupying your mind during this time, but your insulation is another thing to consider.

Following the incident, you’ll work on repairing your damaged home, which may involve upgrading your insulation into something more energy-efficient. Paragon Protection is a spray foam insulation company in Crystal Lake that will gladly answer any questions and install your installation.

The above factors will all affect the lifespan of your insulation. Contact Paragon Protection to discuss your insulation options.