BALTIMORE Blog

Determining if your Home Needs an Insulation Upgrade

In Baltimore, Maryland, where the climate ranges from hot, humid summers to cold, wet winters, proper attic insulation is key to maintaining a comfortable, energy-efficient home throughout the year. Here are some signs that your attic may need an insulation upgrade: 

• High Energy Bills: If your heating and cooling costs are consistently higher than what seems normal for your area or compared to similar homes, it might be due to poor attic insulation allowing heat to escape in the winter and enter in the summer. 

• Uneven Temperatures: Rooms feel noticeably warmer or cooler compared to the rest of the house, which can be a sign of inadequate insulation. 

• Ice Dams in Winter: If ice dams form on the edge of your roof in the winter, it could indicate that heat is escaping from your attic, melting snow on the roof, which then refreezes at the eaves. 

• Visible Insulation Issues: If you can see the floor joists in your attic, it's likely you don't have enough insulation. The current recommendation for most of Maryland is for attic insulation to have an R-value of R-38 to R-60. If your insulation is noticeably old, damaged by water, or has been compacted, it's not performing effectively. 

• Indoor Temperature Fluctuations: If your home struggles to maintain a consistent temperature, or you experience drafts, the problem might be insufficient attic insulation. 

• Pest Infestations: If pests have made a home in your attic, they can damage the insulation. Evidence of infestation means it's time for a thorough inspection and possibly replacing or upgrading your insulation. 

• Age of Your Home: Older homes may not have been built with modern insulation standards. If your home is several decades old and hasn't had an insulation upgrade, it's likely time for an assessment. 

To accurately determine your attic insulation needs, consider a Koala professional.  They can use tools like infrared cameras to identify heat loss and recommend the best insulation materials and practices for your specific situation. In Baltimore, it's also wise to consider moisture-resistant insulation options due to the humid climate, to prevent mold and mildew growth. Upgrading your attic insulation not only improves comfort but can also significantly reduce energy bills and increase your home's value. 

Koala Insulation of Baltimore Experts are Ready to Help 

Insulation experts can then make custom recommendations about the types of insulation that are appropriate for your home's unique needs. Our employees at Koala Insulation of Baltimore train in-house on how to properly handle, install and inspect various types of insulation. Contact Koala Insulation of Baltimore to learn more about how our free evaluations can impact your comfort, safety, and savings.