Hey everyone! I'm a first-time homebuyer (26F) and I'm trying to get my attic insulation sorted out before winter hits. I bought a single-story, 1200 sq ft home in the Midwest a couple of months ago, and my inspector flagged that there's barely any insulation in the attic, which is a concern since my water lines run through there. I've also had issues with my AC not working properly, and I suspect that the insulation plays a role in that, especially since HVAC pros have checked and confirmed that both the HVAC and AC unit are functioning well.
Additionally, I've noticed that at least one of the doors to the outside isn't sealed well since I can see daylight and feel the heat coming in. I know I need to seal that up too, but right now I want to focus on insulation. What would you recommend as the best type for an attic with water lines? I want to nail down my options before hiring someone to do the work. Any insights or recommendations would be super helpful!
3 Answers
Congrats on your first home! For your water lines, definitely consider using the thickest pipe insulation you can get and place it right on the pipes first. This gives you extra protection just in case the attic insulation shifts around. Also, check if your utility company offers an energy audit; they can come out and evaluate everything and may even have rebates if you go with recommended installers. Typically, you'll hear about blown fiberglass or blown cellulose insulation—both are solid options. Personally, I prefer blown fiberglass since it's less dusty and easier to work with. If your budget allows, consider removing the old insulation, sealing the attic air leaks, then adding new insulation to reach the proper R value.
I'd steer clear of spray foam insulation unless you're okay with possibly dealing with humidity problems later. It can sometimes trap moisture and lead to stale air issues, especially in an attic.
Good to know! Thank you for the heads up!
I put in blown-in insulation a few years back. If you buy ten bags at the big box stores, they'll let you borrow the machine for free. It helps to have a few friends help out—pizza is a great motivator! Just make sure to spray foam any gaps or cracks you might find before you add the new insulation for the best results.
Thank you so much for the detailed response! This is super helpful! I will definitely look into what you suggested. 🙂