BALTIMORE Blog

Issues that Develop from an Under-Insulated Attic

When your attic is under-insulated, several issues can arise, affecting both your home's energy efficiency and comfort. Here are some consequences of inadequate attic insulation: 

• Heat Loss in Winter: In colder months, insufficient insulation allows heat to escape from your living spaces through the attic. This results in higher heating costs as your heating system works harder to maintain a comfortable temperature. 

• Heat Gain in Summer: Conversely, during warmer months, inadequate insulation fails to prevent outside heat from entering your home through the attic. This can lead to increased cooling costs as your air conditioning system struggles to keep the indoor temperature down. 

• Temperature Variations: Poor insulation can cause temperature imbalances within your home. Rooms directly below the under-insulated attic may experience more significant temperature fluctuations, making it uncomfortable for occupants. 

• Increased Energy Bills: With a lack of proper insulation, your HVAC (heating, ventilation, and air conditioning) system has to work harder to compensate for the temperature imbalances. This results in higher energy consumption and increased utility bills. 

• Condensation Issues: Inadequate insulation may contribute to condensation problems. When warm air from inside the home comes into contact with the cold surfaces in the attic, it can lead to condensation. This moisture can contribute to mold growth and damage to the attic structure. 

• Ice Dams: In colder climates, under-insulated attics can contribute to the formation of ice dams on the roof. Poor insulation allows heat to escape, melting snow on the roof. The melted snow then refreezes at the eaves, creating ice dams. Ice dams can lead to water damage as melting snow is trapped and unable to drain properly. 

• Reduced Indoor Comfort: Inconsistent temperatures throughout the house can result in discomfort for occupants. Some rooms may feel too hot, while others may be too cold, making it challenging to maintain a comfortable living environment. 

• Shortened HVAC System Lifespan: The increased workload on your heating and cooling systems due to under-insulation can lead to more frequent breakdowns and a shortened lifespan of the equipment. 

To address these issues, it's essential to ensure that your attic is properly insulated. Consulting with a Koala professional can help you determine the appropriate insulation type and thickness for your specific climate and home design. 

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.