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Attic insulation can provide numerous benefits when it comes to summer cooling costs. One of the main advantages of attic insulation is that it can help keep your home cooler during the summer months. This is because insulation works to minimize the transfer of heat between the attic and the living space below. By reducing the amount of heat that enters your home through the attic, you can lower your cooling costs and increase your comfort.
Attic insulation can help to improve the overall energy efficiency of your home. When your home is properly insulated, it requires less energy to maintain a comfortable temperature. This means that your HVAC system doesn't have to work as hard to cool your home, which can lead to lower energy bills and a reduced carbon footprint. Alternatively, this means less wear and tear on your HVAC system, prolonging its life!
Proper insulation in your attic is essential for keeping your home warm in the winter and cool in the summer. To ensure that your insulation is doing its job, it's important to measure its thickness and coverage. Here's how to measure your attic insulation:
Gather the necessary tools: You'll need a ruler or measuring tape, a flashlight, notepad, and pen to record your measurements. [Personally, I recommend a respirator or a mask as well.]
Locate the attic access point: This is usually a small door or opening in the ceiling of a closet or hallway.
Climb up into the attic and use the flashlight to inspect the insulation: Look for any gaps or thin areas in the insulation coverage.
Measure the thickness of the insulation: Place the ruler or measuring tape on top of the insulation, press down until you hit the surface that the insulation is resting on, and measure its thickness in inches.
Record your measurements! Write down the thickness of the insulation in each area. Be sure to note any areas that are thinner than others.
Calculate the R-value: The R-value is a measure of insulation's ability to resist heat flow. Use the thickness of your insulation and the type of insulation you have to determine your R-value. Check with your local building department to determine the recommended R-value for your region.
For Wisconsin: blown in insulation is approximately 17 inches in the attic. Which equates to an R-49 for zone 6.
By measuring your attic insulation, you can ensure that it's doing its job and keeping your home comfortable and energy-efficient. If you find that your insulation is too thin or has gaps, consider adding more insulation to improve its effectiveness.
Overall, if you're looking to reduce your summer cooling costs and improve the energy efficiency of your home, adding or upgrading your attic insulation is a smart choice.