Home insulation will, under ideal conditions, regulate indoor temperatures, prevent heat- and moisture-related damage, and even protect the roof from harm. However, approximately nine out of ten homes in the United States are believed to be inadequately insulated, particularly older homes built before energy-efficient standards were established. If you’ve noticed the following signs, it’s time to contact a professional to have your insulation inspected.

How to Know if Your Insulation Is Under-Performing

1. Ice Dams

An ice dam is a buildup of ice at the edge of the roof. It usually forms as snow melts before quickly refreezing in gutters or along the eaves. These formations can then block the passage of melting water and back ice and snow into the roofing. If this occurs, your roofing material could sustain water damage. Water can seep into the attic, soaking insulating materials and rendering them ineffective.

This often occurs when fiberglass insulating batts are too thin or inefficient to contain warm indoor air, which will penetrate to the roof’s underside and melt snow and ice. Schedule an inspection to determine if it’s insufficient to protect the roof in the winter.

2. Drafts

Indoor drafts signal that your home is improperly insulated. Cold air usually penetrates through areas with weaker insulation, such as around window frames, doorways, and chimneys. The resulting cold air can sap crucial moisture from your skin, leaving it dry and chapped. 

Additionally, cold air can suppress your immune system enough for cold and flu viruses to spread. To identify the origin of a draft, place your hand near window frames to feel for air flow. Alternatively, hold a lit candle near a suspected drafty spot. If it blows out, you’ll know you’ve found the source.

3. High Energy Bills

If you’ve noticed your energy expenses growing steadily larger over the last few years, the cause may be inadequate or ineffective insulation. Insulating materials such as blown-in fiberglass, cellulose, and rock wool can settle over time, degrading their ability to block out cold temperatures. 

Consequently, the heating equipment will gradually sustain more wear and tear as it works to regulate the indoor atmosphere. Heated air will escape through roofing and walls, costing you more to heat the home than it normally should.

To reduce high energy costs, schedule an insulation inspection with Advanced Seal LLC in Rossville, IN. The company has over 40 years of experience providing insulation inspection and conducting upgrades at affordable prices. The team will check the home for drafts and patch up the insulation to restore a comfortable indoor temperature. Call (866) 236-2648 to schedule a consultation, or visit their website to learn more about their services.