Northeast Pennsylvania, Should I Insulate The Outside Walls?

The JM insulation calculator can help determine the recommended R-value for your project and the amount of insulation needed. R-Value is a measure of insulation’s ability to resist heat traveling through it, with higher R-Values indicating better thermal performance. The 2018 IRC/IECC sets minimum acceptable insulation and fenestration performance levels based on geographic area. The typical R-value for exterior walls is R-13 to R-21, depending on the climate zone you live in. Insulate all exterior walls, including walls between living spaces and unheated garages, shed roofs, or storage areas, foundation walls above ground level, and foundation walls in heated basements. Kraft-faced fiberglass insulation helps control temperature and humidity inside the structure.

In most climates, installing a combination of cavity insulation and insulated sheathing can save money and energy when building a new home or addition. To reduce exterior wall leaks, tap the joints of the structure. The IECC is the national model standard for energy-efficient residential construction recognized by federal law. Proper wall insulation can significantly reduce energy bills and create a more comfortable living space.

Home Depot sells several types of insulation, such as Techshield, which insulates and provides a barrier and is affordable. Attic insulation should be performed during moderate temperatures, such as in the Spring or Fall in Northeast PA. USA Insulation in Northeast, PA offers top-notch spray foam insulation services, boosting energy efficiency and comfort in local homes and businesses. Basement wall insulation is not required in warm-humid locations as defined in IECC Figure 301.1 and Table 301.1.

Do cold walls mean poor insulation?

Cold walls are caused by poor insulation, particularly in older properties with solid walls. About 35% of heat loss occurs through walls and gaps, allowing warmth to escape outside. A well-insulated wall creates a barrier to prevent heat escaping, allowing the wall to hold heat better and feel warm when touched. Most solid-walled properties have issues with cold walls and condensation. If cavity walls feel cold, it may be necessary to upgrade cavity wall insulation.

Cold walls can lead to significant heat loss, increased energy bills, and condensation, potentially causing mold issues. If walls feel damp, it is crucial to address the problem quickly to prevent damage to the property.

What is the life expectancy of external wall insulation?

The typical lifespan of external wall insulation is 25 years or more. It is therefore important to repair any cracks that appear in the insulation. Author Tatiana has written about a variety of environmental topics, including heat pumps, energy-efficient household products, and solar panels. Her objective is to make eco-friendly living more accessible by demystifying green technology.

Where should you not put insulation?

The text emphasizes the importance of proper insulation in a home, advising against removing the backing from fiberglass insulation, which serves as a ‘vapor barrier’ to prevent condensation and rot. It advises against covering ventilation with fiberglass insulation or wrapping wiring with insulation, as insulation can be flammable. It also advises against allowing gaps in attics and adding weather stripping around the edges of attic doors to prevent conditioned air from escaping.

The text also emphasizes the importance of generous insulation in regulating and maintaining temperature, with a high R-value insulation being more effective. It advises against removing old insulation unless it is inundated with mold. It advises ensuring no gaps against walls are left after insulation installation, and avoid using fiberglass insulation in basements due to moisture problems. It advises against placing insulation near hot sources, such as water heaters or oil burners.

The text concludes that while it is recommended to hire a professional for insulation installation, it is possible to install insulation yourself with proper knowledge and care. With proper insulation, a home can become significantly more energy efficient.

What is one disadvantage to installing insulation on the exterior of a building?

External wall insulation boards have two main disadvantages: impermeability and size. Impermeability can cause issues if existing walls allow moisture to pass through, leading to dampness in the walls or insulation material. To address this, a vapor barrier or additional ventilation may be needed. Size is another disadvantage, as external insulation boards can add around 50mm to the exterior of walls, creating problems when installed around windows, doors, or roof eaves. Addressing these issues can require costly adjustments and increase the overall cost of the insulation project.

Is it worth insulating exterior walls?

If your attic lacks insulation and air sealing, it may be necessary to add insulation to the exterior walls of your home. This is a costly and typically requires a contractor, but may be worth it, especially in cold climates. If replacing exterior siding, consider adding insulation simultaneously. In existing homes, blow-in insulation can provide a higher R-value and can be installed without much disturbance to finished areas. If remodeling, consider two-part spray foam or wet spray cellulose insulation for open wall cavities.

Injectable spray foam insulation is suitable for non-open cavities. If you’re doing the work yourself, blanket insulation may be an affordable option. For new homes, consider structural insulated panels, insulating concrete forms, and insulated concrete blocks. These materials have built-in insulation, providing superior insulating qualities and minimal thermal bridging.

Does external wall insulation cause damp?

External wall insulation can prevent damp from forming by preventing moisture from escaping through permeable walls. To combat this issue, extra ventilation is recommended. As heating bills rise and winter approaches, it’s crucial to consider how you heat your home. Insulation is the best way to prevent heat transfer without increasing central heating. External wall insulation is attached to the outside of a building and made of polystyrene (EPS), mineral wool, or wood fibers.

It’s finished with rendering layered over the top. However, it’s important to consider the advantages and disadvantages of external wall insulation when upgrading or installing internal insulation panels in old homes.

What if my exterior walls have no insulation?

Uninsulated external walls can increase noise pollution in a home, as they act as a sound barrier, preventing outside noise from entering. If your home was built before the 1980s, your exterior walls may not be insulated, leading to higher energy bills and less comfortable living spaces. This can be a significant financial burden, especially during colder months. Uninsulated exterior walls also have a lower property value compared to those with insulation, as potential buyers are increasingly aware of the benefits of energy-efficient homes.

Homes with insulation may be easier to sell on the market, as they offer greater comfort and reduced energy costs. Therefore, it is crucial to invest in insulation to ensure a comfortable and energy-efficient home.

What is the alternative to external wall insulation?

Loft insulation is a cost-effective solution to minimize heat loss and temperature change in a home. It traps heat in air pockets, keeping the home warm during winter and cool during summer. Costing around £930 for a semi-detached UK house, loft insulation can offset up to a quarter of home heat loss. There are two main ways to insulate a loft: warm loft insulation, which is best for living spaces, and cold loft insulation, which is best for storage purposes.

Warm insulation is laid between roof rafters, secured in place, and covered with plasterboard, while cold insulation is used for storage purposes. Both walls and loft must be insulated for better heat retention. Loft insulation is also budget-friendly, making it more accessible to households than wall insulation. Overall, loft insulation is a valuable alternative to traditional wall insulation.

Is it normal for exterior walls to be cold?

To ensure proper insulation in your home, follow these steps:

1. Touch test interior ceilings, walls, and floors to ensure they feel warm and dry. If drywall and paneling feel damp or cold, there may be insufficient insulation.

2. Check for cold rooms in rooms above the garage or below the attic, as they may be poorly insulated.

3. Add extra insulation to areas with chilly drafts during winter months, such as window frames and doorways. This will prevent drafts and save energy bills.

4. Use spray foam insulation to seal and insulate cracks and crevices, making your home feel less drafty and more energy-efficient. By following these steps, you can ensure your home is well-insulated and comfortable for you and your family.

Will external wall insulation cause damp?

External wall insulation can prevent damp from forming by preventing moisture from escaping through permeable walls. To combat this issue, extra ventilation is recommended. As heating bills rise and winter approaches, it’s crucial to consider how you heat your home. Insulation is the best way to prevent heat transfer without increasing central heating. External wall insulation is attached to the outside of a building and made of polystyrene (EPS), mineral wool, or wood fibers.

It’s finished with rendering layered over the top. However, it’s important to consider the advantages and disadvantages of external wall insulation when upgrading or installing internal insulation panels in old homes.

What happens if your walls are not insulated?

Insulation is crucial in preventing heat loss through walls, causing discomfort and higher energy bills. Brick homes in the UK are particularly susceptible to problems with uninsulated external walls, making them more susceptible to damp and mould growth. Moisture from the air or rainwater can easily penetrate the walls, causing damp patches to form. Therefore, it is essential to install insulation in homes to ensure a comfortable indoor environment.