Your insulation system keeps your home’s temperature comfortable throughout the year. However, when you start to notice that your insulation is no longer functioning properly, it may be time to have your insulation removed or replaced. Be on the lookout for the following four signs that your insulation may need to be replaced.
Pests Have Taken Over the Attic
Old attic insulation are ideal materials for rats, mice, birds, and other pests to nest in. Having pests in your home can put you at risk for a myriad of diseases like Weil’s disease, hantavirus, leptospirosis (from rats and mice), salmonella, Lyme disease, and E. coli (from birds). These pests can also cause structural damage, making your home more susceptible to additional hazards.
You may have pests in your attic if you notice any of the following:
- Scratching noises coming from the attic
- Urine or animal droppings in your home
- Damages to the structures of your attic (teeth marks in wood or plastic)
- Signs of nesting
The latest innovation in insulation is spray foam. Pests are much less likely to use this material for nests as it is less comfortable for them. This material can also seal structural cracks, keeping pests from entering attic spaces.
Higher Hydro Bills
One of the signs of a well-insulated home is a lowered hydro bill. If you notice a sudden and unexpected increase in your hydro bills, your attic insulation may be damaged. The spike in your bills may be caused by insufficient or uneven insulation. In these cases, the insulation may need to be removed and replaced.
Moist Air
Once your existing attic insulation has worn down, holes and cracks in the insulation may form. These become access points for moisture to enter, making the environment damp. These conditions are ideal for the growth of mould and mildew.
Mould and mildew are extremely hazardous to the health of your entire household due to the detrimental effects they have on air quality. Some signs that your air quality has been compromised are:
A foul odour
Sudden allergies or respiratory issues
The Presence of Asbestos
Asbestos is a naturally occuring substance that can be extremely toxic. When asbestos fibres are inhaled, they have the potential to cause cancer and other serious ailments.
If you live in an older house, chances are the roof and attic insulation are in need ocaf replacing. This means that any renovation or major home improvement project may release asbestos from your insulation and into your home. Get an expert recommendation from a professional on how to address asbestos issues in your home.
Treating insulation issues as a DIY project can be extremely hazardous. Always have a professional look at your insulation to avoid any potential danger to you and your health.
Dr. Duct provides attic insulation removal in Ottawa, Ontario. Call us today at (613) 845-0707.