ATLANTA PERIMETER NORTH Blog

What to know if your home was born before Beanie Babies (1993)

As a homeowner in Atlanta, Georgia, you may be wondering about the insulation in your home and how it affects your energy efficiency. Over the years, there have been significant changes in insulation codes in Georgia, and it's essential to stay informed about where your home started, the changes that have occurred with respect to the legal minimum requirement for homes to be built today.  You can use this information to guide decisions about what to do about comfort and energy savings in your gome on a go-forward basis.

Spolier alert: if your home was built before 1990, we can probably help you out...a lot.

Insulation Code Changes Over the Decades:

To truly appreciate the progress made in insulation codes, let's break down the changes by decade, starting from the 1970s and leading up to today. These changes highlight the remarkable evolution in energy-efficient home construction.

1970s - The Beginning:

In the 1970s, insulation codes began to address the need for better energy conservation. However, standards were relatively modest compared to today's requirements. Homes were typically required to have basic insulation in attics and walls.  There apparently weren't standard R-Values until 1979. and absent a measuring system, there were loose requirements on what success looked like.

1980s - A Step Forward:

During the 1980s, insulation codes became more stringent. Homes were expected to have higher R-values, which measure insulation's thermal resistance. This decade marked the beginning of recognizing the importance of insulation in conserving energy and reducing utility bills.  Depending on when the home was built, an R19 was common until R30 emerged as the standard at the end of the decade, where it stayed until recently.

1990s - 2000s - A lost decade:

Following the boost to R30 at the end of the 1980's, nothing else really happened.

2000s to Today - Advancements Continue:

Starting around 2009, insulation codes took a leap forward. More emphasis was placed on improving energy efficiency in homes. This meant higher R-values for various parts of the house, including attics, walls, and floors.  Attic insulation which bears the brunt of the work in maintaining a home's energy and comfort was then elevated to R38

Look Ahead - A Focus on Sustainability and Maximal Comfort

One of the easiest ways to help reduce energy costs and energy use is to keep more of the energy we use day to day.  While geographic variations exist, many states are pushing for R44 and even up to R60 insulation for attics.  As one turns more toward high performing homes, these focus equally on air-tightness of the thermal envelope as well as the R-value to exploit every advantage a home can offer with respect to elevating efficiency of energy use - and maximizing comfort.    

Why R-Value Matters:

Understanding the R-value of your insulation is essential because it directly impacts your home's energy efficiency. Higher R-values mean better insulation, which results in lower energy bills and a more comfortable living environment. So, what can you do as a homeowner?

Your Action Plan:

1. In-Home Assessment: Contact an insulation expert for an in-home assessment, especially if your home was built before the 2000s. They can evaluate your current insulation's condition, R-value, and whether it meets the latest code requirements.

2. Tax Credits and Rebate Programs: Don't forget about potential financial incentives. The Inflation Reduction Act and Georgia Power's rebate program offer tax credits and rebates for homeowners who invest in home efficiency improvements. These can help offset the cost of insulation upgrades.  The current federal tax credit covers up to 30% of your insulation material expenses and can save you $1200 on your project, starting in 2023.  Check out our website for more information.

3. Enjoy modern comfort and energy savings in your home!

Conclusion:

Understanding insulation code changes by decade, the importance of R-value is crucial for homeowners in Georgia. By taking action, you can improve your home's comfort level, save money on utility bills, and contribute to a greener future. Don't hesitate to contact Koala Insulation for expert guidance and a free assessment.

Remember, a well-insulated home is a comfortable and cost-effective one. Start your journey towards a more energy-efficient home today!