Do I Know if I Have Enough Attic Insulation?

May 17, 2021 by GLSA Mobley

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In our last blog we introduced why attic insulation is so important. Today we’re going to answer a hard question – how much is enough insulation? As a long-time Knoxville roofer, we’ve come to learn that not matter how old or new a home, it may not have enough insulation. It may not have proper ventilation. These two things work together to keep your home comfortable. An added benefit is that your roofing system will last longer when your attic insulation and ventilation are as they should be.

How Much is Enough?

That’s a difficult question to answer easily because depending on the type of insulation, the physical amount varies. Figuring out if you have enough attic insulation isn’t hard once you determine the type of insulation you have. The Insulation Institute™ and ENERGY STAR® recommend at least R-38 for most of Tennessee including the Knoxville and Nashville areas. Here is a link that will help you determine what you have and what you need.

Don’t Count on Once Wet Insulation

If your insulation was ever wet due to a roof leak and your Nashville or Knoxville roofer didn’t recommend replacing it or replace it for you, they did you a disservice. (Assuming they saw it was wet or could determine that by the extent of your roof leak.) Insulation that has been wet, even if now dry, can’t perform as it should and must be replaced.

Why Doesn’t My Home Have the Proper Amount of Insulation?

The primary reason is that it’s older. Homes built before the late 80’s had different building codes regarding insulation. With an increased focus on energy-efficiency, came recommendations for more insulation in attics and walls. (This is also the same reason a siding replacement often includes an insulative house wrap.)

Another reason is a cheap or lazy insulation installer. When builders hire an insulation company to come in and blow insulation, they’re often not supervised. This can lead to them shorting the amount that should be blown throughout the attic.

We are Both a Nashville and Knoxville Roofer

With offices in both Nashville and Knoxville, we can help you with your roof leak repair, new siding or even recommendations on your attic’s ventilation and insulation. Call us today for your free estimate in either Lebanon at (615) 645-4500 or Knoxville at (865) 248-2772. Our offices are A+ rated by the Better Business Bureau.

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