According to the EPA, the average homeowner can expect to save 11% on their total energy costs by upgrading their home’s insulation. This number increases when you factor in the colder climate of Northeast Pennsylvania.
While many of us understand the benefits of insulation, we are also constrained by our budget.
According to data from Angi’s List, insulation costs in NEPA can range from $0.30 per square foot on the low end to $6.75 per square foot on the upper end. For a standard 1,500-square-foot home, these costs can add up to thousands of dollars.
However, the impact of insulation varies widely on where you choose to insulate your home and what materials. For example, insulating your exterior walls will always result in a greater reduction of your energy bills than insulating your interior walls.
We’ve discussed the various types of insulation on this blog before, and how much you need, so it’s time to discuss where you should insulate your home so you can receive the highest return on your investment.
Location #1. Attic and Roof Insulation
By far, the most essential insulation project we recommend for all new homes or older homes with no insulation is to insulate the attic.
The attic is one of the biggest sources of heat loss and gain in a home. Because heat rises, uninsulated or under-insulated attics allow warm air to escape in the winter and cool air to dissipate in the summer.
New insulation, such as spray foam or blown-in fiberglass, can help prevent air leakages and keep warm air trapped inside, allowing the upper parts of the home to remain warmer.
To completely insulate an attic, tackle these areas:
- Between the rafters
- The attic floor
- Inside open floor joists
- Around the attic door and any windows
We recommend working with a professional for all attic and roof insulation projects,2qq as proper ventilation is required, as well as adequate space for recessed lighting and other fixtures that could be fire hazards.
Tip: Air sealing your attic will ensure there is no air loss and that your insulation works to maximum efficiency.
Location #2. Exterior Walls
Much like your attic, exterior walls allow significant heat transfer as they are exposed directly to the elements. Insulating these walls can enhance comfort by keeping your home warmer in winter and cooler in summer.
It’s often easier to insulate walls during construction, but it is still possible to insulate existing walls using blown-in insulation, such as cellulose or fiberglass. To do this, a professional will drill a small hole and use a blower to fill in the empty spaces with the insulating material.
Tip: Tackle walls adjacent to uninsulated areas, such as the garage or attic, as they often benefit most from additional insulation.
Location #3. Floors Above Unheated Spaces
Insulating floors above unheated spaces, such as garages or crawl spaces, can prevent cold drafts that affect your comfort and make your HVAC system work harder.
Some options for insulating floors above unheated spaces include:
- Rigid foam insulation for maximum thermal resistance.
- Fiberglass batt insulation, if you need flexibility and easy installation.
Tip: Pay close attention to insulating the flooring above garages, as these spaces tend to be particularly cold in the winter.
Location #4. Basement and Foundation Walls
By some estimates, basement walls can account for up to a quarter of your home’s heat loss. This is due to poor insulation around crawl spaces, foundations, and basement walls, allowing heat to escape through these areas before ever making its way up your home.
Due to the lack of ventilation in these spaces and the need for a strong insulating material, we highly recommend using spray foam insulation. This form of insulation provides the highest r-value and is moisture resistant, so it won’t develop mold.
Tip: In addition to basement walls, rim joists located between the basement and the first floor can be a significant source of heat loss and must be insulated.
Location #5. Ductwork Insulation
If you have an HVAC system, insulating ductwork can prevent heat loss and improve the efficiency of the overall system. For example, ducts that run through unconditioned spaces, like attics and crawl spaces, can lose a significant amount of heat due to the rapid change in temperature.
There is special duct wrap insulation that can be installed around existing ducts, though we recommend spray foam insulation for the tightest barrier.
Tip: Look for insulation that provides both a thermal barrier and a moisture barrier to ensure optimal performance of your HVAC system.
Location #6. Windows and Doors
Finally, a huge source of heat loss in the home that can easily be avoided is through your windows and doors. While we don’t install traditional insulation around these fixtures, weatherstripping and door sweeps can be powerful tools to help lower your utility bills.
Some tips to insulate windows and doors include:
- Weatherstripping around doors and windows to seal gaps.
- Thermal curtains or window film to reduce heat transfer.
- Caulk to seal small cracks around frames.
Insulating windows and doors is an easy and cost-effective DIY project that will immediately improve home comfort and lower your bills.
Tip: Consider upgrading to double- or triple-pane windows if replacing old, single-pane windows. These windows contain insulating gas between panes, significantly improving energy efficiency.
For more information and advice, contact our team of experts at EnergySmart for a free audit. We can help you devise a plan to insulate your home to deliver you the highest return on your budget.
FAQs
Can I insulate my home myself?
Some home insulation projects, such as attic rafters and floors and rim joists, can be accomplished on your own using fiberglass batts and rolls. However, insulating around hard-to-reach areas and existing walls will require professional assistance. Additionally, spray foam insulation requires professional devices that most people don’t own or need to own.
What is the best type of insulation for walls?
For exterior walls, spray foam and blown-in insulation are popular options because they fill gaps effectively. Fiberglass batts are also commonly used, especially in new construction.
How often should I replace insulation?
Fiberglass and cellulose insulation can last 20–30 years, depending on the type and exposure to moisture or other elements, while spray foam can last for double the length. If you notice drafts, moldy insulation, or increasing energy bills, it may be time for an inspection.
