More Boring Home Ownership Stuff: Should you Insulate Your Attic?

Are you looking to save money on your new home or are you looking for ways to save energy while making our homes more comfortable. One of the easiest ways of saving money is to improve insulation in the attic. If you can access your attic poke your head up there.  Your attic is the source of major energy losses, because warm air rises.

Insulation is measured in R-values. The higher the R-value, the better your attic will resist heat transfer. Southeastern Wisconsin is in Zone 6, requiring R49.  To find out how much insulation you need, check this page at the U.S. Department of Energy’s website: http://www.energysavers.gov/tips/insulation.cfm Locate the zone where you live, and then scroll down to the color-coded chart.  

Heating Cost vs. R Valu

Take a look in your attic. In most climates, you’ll find insulation about 12 to 15 inches thick, which provides insulation of about R38. This varies, depending on the climate, but 12 to 15 inches is a good rule of thumb.

If you don’t have that level of insulation or you don’t know where to look, seek advice from a professional. The pro will know the standards for your area and can give you good advice. Make sure the pro talks about air sealing between the heated space and the attic as part of the insulation system. Air sealing is just as important as insulation.

Happy Thanksgiving!