Experts say good insulation is an investment every homeowner should make. Reliable insulation is vital for keeping your home comfortable. It also helps lower your energy consumption. Dirt, compression, and water do take a toll on your home’s insulation. It’s still effective but that ability will become compromised over the years.
The good news is insulation can last for decades. You don’t have to replace it every year. It also helps if you know how to expand its lifespan. This article will give you some ideas on how to do that.
How Long Does Insulation Last?
The lifespan of your home’s insulation depends on the material and its maintenance. Expert insulators say that cellulose, fiberglass, and rock wool can last a century. This is true from a technical aspect, and only if the conditions are ideal. The truth is your insulation might need replacing. Especially for materials installed a decade ago.
There are several reasons for this. One, 90% of homes in the US don’t have enough insulation. This can also be due to age as 10.5 million residences are between 20 to 30 years old. Insulation wasn’t considered as important then as it is now. Our knowledge of energy efficiency keeps changing as well. This means government recommendations and policies have changed too. Climate change has also done a number on homes today. The US is experiencing more extreme summer and winter temperatures. They are at levels that houses were not designed to keep up with.
So how long does insulation last in today’s home? It varies depending on the material. Here’s a quick look at the lifespan of common home insulation.
- Cellulose: This type of insulation has a lifespan of 20 to 30 years. Homeowners can see some form of degrading by year 15 though. It’s because the material is plant-based. Animals, bugs, and mold will weaken it over time.
- Fiberglass: This popular insulation material can last up to 80 years. But it might start to weaken by its 15th year.
- Mineral Wool: Experts say this insulation can last 100 years. But most mineral wool insulation has a lifespan of three decades. Its longevity will depend on where it’s installed and how.
- Spray Foam: This is another popular type of insulation. Homeowners love it because it can last for 80 years without any problems.
Ways to Extend Insulation Lifespan
Choosing the right type of insulation is important. But it’s only the first step. Good maintenance is also vital in ensuring insulation lasts. You can do several things to catch problems before they become serious.
- Check for Leaks: High moisture levels can damage all forms of insulation. It’s why homeowners should check their home’s roof and walls for leaks twice a year. It would be best if you also watched out for signs of high humidity, like mildew and foggy windows. You should reach out to a roofing expert if your attic feels humid. The space might need more insulation or ventilation.
- Look for Physical Damage: Everything degrades at some point. Insulation material isn’t immune to that. Factors like gravity and physical damage can hasten it along. Gravity can result in sagging insulation. This will leave air gaps that encourage drafts and mold growth. You can staple it back in place if it’s still in good condition. Regular pest control will also help insulation last longer. Tears and punctures from these pests can do a lot of damage.
- Choose the Right Thickness. Houses in areas with colder climates need a thicker layer of insulation. The extra padding will keep the home warmer for longer periods. A thinner layer is better in areas with mild weather. An experienced insulation contractor will ensure your home gets the right type. They will also make sure it has the proper thickness.
Insulation Work That’s Affordable and Durable
Do you want your insulation to last? A company like A Affordable Insulators will ensure it does. We hold the distinction of being the top insulation company in Houston, Texas. Our company specializes in residential and commercial fiberglass insulation. We also offer spray reflective coating and loose-fill insulation. Our technicians have the training and certification to install various kinds of insulation. We can also install attic fan, solar vents, and ridge vents. We also handle attic insulation removal. We’re an accredited business with an A+ rating. So why not give us a call at 832-243-7484? You can also send us a message here and get a free estimate.
