MICHIANA Blog

A Guide to Insulation & Pest Control

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Most homeowners know that home insulation keeps energy bills reasonable and maintains a comfortable interior temperature all year long. However, it might be more surprising to realize it can also serve as an effective pest deterrent. This guide explains how it can fortify your home against insects and other pests, as well as which insulating materials are most effective. 

How Does Insulation Deter Pests From Entering Your Home?

Insulation keeps unwanted visitors out of your home in one of two ways. First, the material acts as a physical barrier against intrusion, as it shores up tiny cracks and crevices in your attic, walls, and ceiling as it's installed. These products are also often treated with chemicals, which cause harm to any pests attempting to chew through them. 

What Are the Best Types of Home Insulation for Pest Control?

As explained above, treating materials with chemicals amplifies the insulation's pest protection. This is especially true of cellulose insulation, which contains boric acid to make it fire-resistant. Boric acid is deadly to insects and rodents. 

Spray foam insulation is another great option. While open-cell foam is slightly less dense than closed-cell, both are incredibly rigid. This usually prevents pests from chewing through the material and making their way into your home. 

Spray foam can also act as a barrier against leaks, which is another attractive, life-sustaining resource bugs and rodents need to survive. As a result, reducing moisture indoors can significantly reduce infestations. 

If you have additional questions about home insulation, Koala Insulation of Michiana in Mishawaka, IN, is more than happy to answer them. They start their projects by performing a comprehensive energy audit, which pinpoints all problematic areas throughout the home so that they can determine the best solutions. They have experience with many materials, including spray foam and blown-in cellulose. Visit the website to learn more about their services, or call (574) 544-6433 to schedule an appointment today.