Beat The Heat: Exploring the Importance of Summer Insulation

How Insulation Works

During winter, insulation absorbs the heat produced by your heating systems, while in summer, it prevents hot air from entering your home from the attic, where temperatures soar during the day. This allows your air conditioning to work more efficiently, saving you money on energy bills.

Heat travels in three ways: radiation, conduction, and convection. Insulation traps heat, preventing its movement:

1. Conduction: Heat travels through materials, like how a down jacket retains body heat.
2. Convection: Heat moves through air. Insulation with air pockets helps trap heat.
3. Radiation: Heat emanates from a source, like radiators or a fire.

Where to Insulate Your Home
For maximum energy efficiency, your home should be insulated from top to bottom—attic to foundation and everywhere in between! Dusty attics and insulated walls are important areas, but for optimal efficiency, insulation should cover walls, ceilings, floors, crawl spaces, basements, and around ducts and piping. This prevents outside air from disturbing your home's temperature balance. Without proper insulation, heat can fill your home, making it uncomfortable.

Choosing the Right Insulation
There are various insulation materials available, each with its pros and cons:

Fiberglass batt insulation: Common and inexpensive, but can irritate skin, eyes, and lungs if improperly installed.
Spray foam insulation: More expensive but highly energy efficient. Requires careful installation.
Cellulose insulation: Made from recycled newspaper, cost-effective but may cause allergies.
Rigid foam insulation: Mid-range cost, effective, and doesn't require specialized installation.

A professional can advise on the best option for your home.

Mid-State Home Services Can Help

Properly installed insulation can enhance energy efficiency, lower bills, and increase comfort. When choosing a contractor, ensure they are licensed and use quality products and services.

Mid-State Home Services offers a range of energy efficiency and insulation services. Contact us for a free estimate today!