If you've been looking for ways to improve the energy efficiency of your home, one of the most beneficial things you can do is assess your home's insulation. Heating and cooling systems are one of the biggest factors in efficiency for homes, and poor insulation is often the culprit. The attic is often the worst offender in these situations, which is why many homeowners start their energy-efficiency improvements by re-insulating their attic. Here's a look at what you need to know about the residential insulation in your attic.

Start With A Thorough Inspection

Before you add any new insulation to your attic, you need to take the time to do a thorough inspection of the area. During this inspection, you need to look for any signs of water damage, gaps, cracks, and other vulnerabilities. It's important that you do this first, because the new insulation installation may cover these things and leave them to become growing problems.

If you have any water stains or water damage signs in the attic, you need to address the source of the leak and repair the damage before you proceed with insulation. Otherwise, you run the risk of that water penetration continuing, and it may ultimately damage not only your new insulation but also your home.

Seal Gaps And Cracks

If your attic inspection uncovers any gaps, cracks, or other similar issues in the attic, work with your insulation contractor to seal them first. This is important because any gaps could allow for air transfer that might negate your efforts. Additionally, cracks and gaps create areas where pests can gain entry. Those pests may damage not only your home but also your new insulation. Eliminate these risks by ensuring that your attic is fully sealed against any kind of outside access.

Choose Your Insulation

Once the inspection and preparation work has been completed in the attic, it's time to insulate it. You'll need to choose the right insulation for your project. Your insulation contractor can help you narrow down the best options for your climate. For example, if you live in an area where the temperatures are moderate, blanket insulation may be sufficient. However, in areas where the temperatures are more extreme, you'll want something with a higher R-value, such as spray foam or blown-in insulation.

Discuss the options with your insulation technician, and tell them what your plans are for the attic. If you're hoping to expand your living space by finishing the attic, you'll want to consider spray foam or something similar that will ensure that the attic space stays comfortable all year.