Most of us think about insulating our homes during the colder months when we’re trying to keep heat in and energy bills down. But did you know that insulation can also help keep your home cool in summer? By insulating your crawl space and exterior walls, you can create a barrier against moisture, helping to prevent mold and mildew from developing, and also keep your home cooler during hot weather.
Continue reading to learn 5 tips you should know before insulating your crawl space and exterior walls.
1. Check for Moisture
Before you begin, it’s important to check for moisture in your crawl space or basement. If there is any water present, you’ll need to take steps to remove it and repair any leaks before you can proceed with insulation.
An example of this would be to install a sump pump to remove any standing water, or to seal any cracks or gaps in the foundation that may be letting water in. Another option would be to install a vapor barrier to prevent moisture from entering the space.
Should there be any existing mold or mildew, you’ll need to treat it before proceeding with insulation. To do this, you can use a solution of bleach and water, or hire a professional to do the job for you.
2. Choose the Right Insulation
There are many different types of insulation available on the market, so it’s important to choose the right one for your needs. If you’re insulating a crawl space, fiberglass batts or rolls are a good option. For exterior walls, you may want to consider spray foam insulation, which can help fill in any gaps or cracks.
The R-value of insulation is probably not something you give much thought to, yet it is in reality a vital component to take into consideration. The R-value of an insulation material is a measurement of its ability to resist the flow of heat; the higher the R-value, the more effective the insulation will be at preventing heat from entering your home during the warmer months.
Deciding which insulation to use is a personal decision, and there are many factors to consider. But if you’re looking for insulation that will help keep your home cool in summer, make sure to choose one from iFoam professionals to get the job done right.
3. Install Insulation Properly
After you’ve chosen the right insulation for the job, it’s important to install it properly. If you’re doing it yourself, make sure to follow the manufacturer’s instructions carefully. And if you’re hiring a professional, be sure to ask about their experience and whether they’re familiar with the type of insulation you’ve chosen.
The thing about insulation is that it needs to be airtight to be effective. So, if there are any gaps or cracks in the insulation, it won’t be as effective at keeping your home cool. That’s why it’s important to make sure the insulation is installed properly, without any gaps or leaks.
4. Consider an Insulation Upgrade
If your home is more than a few years old, you may want to consider upgrading the insulation. Older homes often have less insulation than newer ones, so an upgrade can make a big difference in how well your home retains heat. And, as we mentioned before, a well-insulated home will be cooler in summer.
If you’re not sure whether your home needs an insulation upgrade, you can ask a professional for their opinion. They’ll be able to assess the current state of your insulation and let you know if an upgrade is necessary.
5. Maintain Your Insulation
Once your insulation is installed, it’s important to maintain it so that it continues to work effectively. This means checking for any gaps or leaks and sealing them up as soon as possible. You should also be sure to keep the area around your insulation clean and free of debris.
Maintaining your insulation is a simple task that doesn’t take much time or effort. But it’s important to do if you want to keep your home cool in summer and save money on energy bills. One of the best ways to keep your insulation in good condition is to have it professionally inspected on a regular basis.
A well-maintained insulation system will last for many years, so it’s worth the effort to keep it in good condition. By following these tips, you can be sure that your insulation is doing its job and that your home is as cool as can be in summer.
Now you know everything you need to know about insulation. So, if you’re looking to keep your home cool this summer, be sure to get started on your insulation project today. From choosing the right insulation to maintaining it, we’ve got you covered. You just have to take the first step. Once you’ve done that, the rest will be a breeze. Thanks for reading!
