The Science Behind Attic Insulation: Understanding How it Works for Energy Efficiency

The Science Behind Attic Insulation: Understanding How It Works For Energy Efficiency

/ Residential Roofing / By /

Most homeowners are familiar with insulation, in general. They understand that insulation helps protect a home from the outside elements and keeps the house warm. However, they may not realize that many types of insulation exist, including attic insulation. In fact, each kind of insulation serves a particular purpose. 

Homeowners may also not comprehend the numerous benefits of attic insulation for a roofing system. In particular, the type and amount of attic insulation greatly affect the lifespan of a roof and a home’s overall energy efficiency. Without sufficient attic insulation, a roofing system faces many daunting challenges.

How Attic Insulation Is Manufactured

Contractor in attic blowing in insulation

Sand. Plentiful. Practically unlimited. As the primary ingredient in glass production, silica sand forms the foundation of fiberglass (the primary material in attic/thermal insulation). Fiberglass takes shape when fibers are spun from molten glass, coated with a liquid binder, and disseminated into random pieces to create a familiar wooly substance.

To organize the large volume of fiberglass fibers into a usable form, industrial curing ovens help bond the strands together to make cutting them to the desired length and width easier. A binding agent (such as a vapor barrier) is affixed to the finished attic insulation product unless it is used as a “loose fill,” in which case no binding agent is required.

4 Reasons Why Attic Insulation Is Important For A Roofing System

Many homeowners may not associate air quality with attic insulation. However, the two concepts share a common thread. Outdoor pollutants and allergens will attempt to enter your home in any way possible. An underinsulated attic likely has inadequate air sealant characteristics and unobstructed spaces where undesirable and unfiltered outside air can infiltrate a home’s interior.

Inadequate attic insulation leads to moisture intrusion and temperature fluctuations in the roof and attic space. Consequently, structural components (including wooden rafters and joists) experience splitting, cracking, and rotting. Sufficient attic insulation reduces the chance of water intrusion and internal temperature changes compromising a home’s structural integrity.

Poor attic insulation substantially increases the risk of damage to roofing materials, including surface asphalt shingles (or other roofing types). Roofing materials depend heavily on consistent temperatures at the attic level to avoid becoming brittle or cracking. A constant cycle of rapid temperature changes in the attic weakens the performance of roofing materials at the surface.

Water continuously penetrating a home’s interior spaces can cause permanent and “difficult-to-remove” water damage, including mold and mildew. A well-insulated attic provides additional protection against moisture intrusion and condensation.

4 Ways Insulation Impacts Energy Efficiency

Heating and cooling systems are expensive to repair or replace. Overusing a heater or an air conditioning unit will significantly shorten their shelf life. Having sufficient attic insulation means that HVAC equipment will not need to be overused during cold winter or hot summer months. Less wear and tear on your HVAC system results in more energy savings for you as the homeowner.

Heating and cooling (A/C) units operate optimally on consistent indoor temperatures. Unexpected and sudden changes in temperatures or humidity levels will cause heating and cooling units to kick into overdrive to recalibrate the indoor temperatures or humidity levels. Proper attic insulation helps regulate indoor temperatures and humidity levels to avoid spikes.

A home’s comfort level matters to its occupants. If a house feels drafty or stuffy, in all likelihood, indoor temperatures and humidity levels are managed poorly. Inadequate attic insulation could be the primary culprit. Heat escaping through the attic may cause the heating unit to overwork in winter. Heat may be distributed unnaturally in higher portions of the house during summer. When indoor temperatures are evenly distributed, energy consumption is reduced.

Poor insulation allows heat to escape easily. Air pockets form in the attic of an inadequately insulated home. Since warm air rises, it ends up in the attic. In colder weather, allowing heat to exit the house quickly means that a heating unit must work much harder. Energy consumption increases in warmer weather because cool indoor air is not contained in a closed environment.

Home with new roof and insulation. Midwest Roofing, Siding & Windows truck in the driveway.

Choosing A Roofing Contractor To Install Attic Insulation

For homeowners throughout the Twin Cities and surrounding areas, Midwest Roofing, Siding, & Windows offers the finest services in the roofing industry. Our unyielding commitment to fully addressing your roofing needs (including attic insulation installation) motivates us to provide exceptional customer service, craftsmanship, and roofing products. We never compromise quality. By delivering unmatched results, we earn your business. To schedule a complimentary consultation or to learn more, contact us today.

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