When your home needs to have its insulation replaced, one of the first things you’ll have to consider is who will install it for you. Once you choose a professional insulation contractor, you’ll have to prepare for the project. This will involve doing a little spring cleaning in your attic to ensure you provide the ideal environment for your contractor to complete the work.
Clear Everything Out
The first step in this process involves removing everything from your attic. This is the perfect opportunity for you to get rid of things that your family no longer needs or uses. You can discard old holiday decorations, toys that your children have outgrown, and appliances that no longer work. Things that are still in good condition can be sold or donated.
The items that you want to keep will still have to be removed from the attic. Find another place for that antique rocking chair or your family’s bicycles. If you have a basement or garage, make a temporary home for these things in those areas. You can also use this as an opportunity to find more ideal storage areas for seasonal and recreational equipment.
Look for Water Damage
Before your contractor can install insulation in your attic, you will have to verify that it is dry and free of leaks. Look for stains and wood rot that might suggest there is a leak in your attic. If you do see moisture, you will need to dry out the wood in that area. Use fans and open the windows on clear days to help the moist wood to dry.
If you suspect that there is a leak in your roof, you must have that repaired first. Installing insulation in a leaky attic will only lead to damaged insulation and higher repair costs. Even if you choose spray foam insulation, moist surfaces will weaken the bond between your roofing materials and the insulation.
Check Lighting, Exhaust Fans, and Hoses Prior to Installing Attic Insulation
Your contractor will advise you about the best way to protect lighting fixtures if you’ll be using spray foam for attic insulation. Make sure to follow their instructions. The contractor may also secure a box around each fixture to prevent accidental exposure to the insulation foam. This is an important preparatory step since spray foam is flammable until it hardens.
You must also check the exhaust fans in your attic to ensure they are properly working. The fans will help ventilate the space as the contractor is installing your insulation.
Check to make sure any hoses that vent hot air are properly secured. A loose vent hose can cause humid air to leak out into your attic. This encourages moisture to accumulate, and that will adversely affect the installation process.
Following these steps will protect your home and belongings from damage during the insulation installation. In addition, you’ll make it easier for the contractor to install your new insulation. You’ll receive a higher-quality installation process, which will lead to better protection for your home.