Understanding R-Values
Insulation performance is measured by “R-value,” which tells you how well the material resists heat flow. In the attic insulation Central Michigan market, the Department of Energy recommends a much higher R-value than in warmer states. For our climate, you should generally aim for an R-49 to R-60 rating.
If you look into your attic and can see the wooden floor joists, you almost certainly do not have enough insulation. Most older homes only have a fraction of what is currently recommended.
Preventing Ice Dams
One of the biggest benefits of attic insulation in Central Michigan is the prevention of ice dams. When heat escapes from your house into the attic, it warms the roof deck and melts the snow. That water then runs down to the cold eaves and freezes, creating a dam that backs up under your shingles.
By keeping your attic “cold” with thick insulation and proper air sealing, you prevent that melt-and-freeze cycle, protecting your roof from water damage.
Choosing the Right Material
There are several options for attic insulation in Central Michigan, but blown-in cellulose and fiberglass are the most common. Blown-in materials are excellent for older homes in Mt. Pleasant, Alma, Midland, and Clare because they can fill every small nook and cranny that traditional “batt” insulation might miss.
This seamless layer of protection is vital for stopping air leaks around light fixtures, plumbing stacks, and chimney flues.
Summer Comfort and AC Savings
Attic insulation isn’t just for the winter. In the summer, your roof can reach temperatures of over 150 degrees. Without thick attic insulation in Central Michigan, that heat radiates down through your ceiling, making your air conditioner work much harder to keep the house cool.
Investing in your attic is a year-round benefit that pays for itself through lower monthly energy costs.
Call Energy Plus Home Improvements
Want to know if your attic is up to par? Energy Plus Home Improvements can provide an insulation audit and help you upgrade to a more comfortable, efficient home.
