I recently purchased a condo that was built in 2004, so it's a bit over 20 years old. The current insulation in the attic was to code at the time, but it seems to be a little below current standards, measuring around 4 to 5 inches depending on who's measuring. I've received quotes for adding more insulation to meet current guidelines, and these range from $1000 to $1500. My HVAC system is pretty new—less than a year old—and my windows are also relatively recent, about 5 years old. Right now, my monthly energy bills for electricity and natural gas are under $200, sometimes even under $150. Given all this, is it a good idea to spend that money on additional insulation?
3 Answers
Honestly, if you're up for a DIY project, now's a great time to do it since it's not too hot or cold in the attic. You could save a lot of cash this way! Also, check with your electric company for any rebates on energy efficiency improvements. In my state, there's a $250 rebate for adding attic insulation, which could help a lot with costs!
Before adding more insulation, make sure to air seal your attic properly. If you don’t, the added insulation won't be very effective. Check for any gaps around ceiling fixtures like lights, fans, and vents—this is something you can DIY pretty easily!
Consider this as a long-term investment. Adding insulation now can really pay off down the line, especially with energy efficiency!
Exactly! Air sealing is super important. It can be a bit of work, but it pays off in the long run.