Having too much of anything is never a good thing, and this includes insulation in an attic. While having too much insulation isn't necessarily a problem, it can be if the insulating material blocks the ventilation grilles. This is why it is essential to ensure that fresh air can enter the attic to prevent moisture from accumulating. Attic vents are necessary for warm air to be expelled and replaced with colder outside air. It's important to take proper care and make sure that your home's ventilation grilles have free air circulation.
Otherwise, it could lead to condensation, moisture-related issues, wood rot, and mold. Generally speaking, the more insulation you have, the better. However, there may also be a point where professionals consider it to be “too much”. A home that is too insulated and hermetically sealed can create unintended problems. That's why the attic space has to function as a “system”.
Because of this, some homes with sealed attics use a double roof that has a ventilated air space above the insulating roof cover. One of the reasons for not having “too much” insulation in the attic is to avoid spending more than necessary. However, if your attic has outdated insulation, adding modern insulation could go a long way in reducing your heating bills. You should remember that attic insulation works both ways, not only will it help keep your home warm, but it will also help keep the heat away when needed. For example, without adequate attic ventilation, an overly isolated space causes moisture to accumulate, compromising insulation performance and even causing mold to form. If insulation is added to an attic before dealing with attic detours, this could make the attic space much colder than ever.
If you have attic insulation with an R-value of 38 and you still want your home to be more energy efficient, consider installing a radiant barrier instead. A sealed or unventilated attic has the insulation installed on the roof and not on the roof plane, which makes the attic space the conditioned area of the house. However, if you have outdated insulation in your attic, adding modern insulation could help make a significant difference in your heating bills. Clogged ventilation grilles in a ventilated attic will reduce energy efficiency, accumulate moisture in the attic space, and most importantly, generate mold. Regardless of the type of insulation you use, the right attic insulation should have the optimal R-value depending on your location and your home requirements.
This leaves the actual attic space above the isolated areas of the house, which is known as conditioned space. This is the labor-intensive part of insulating an attic that some contractors might not mention. A well-insulated attic will have full coverage of the chosen insulation and will be clean and dry. As perhaps one of the most effective insulating materials for your attic, LogicFoam spray foam is all the insulation you'll ever need. Attic detours are the driving force for ice accumulations, as well as frost, moisture, and mold in the attic.
