Homeowners can improve their homes’ energy efficiency through a variety of cost-effective improvements. But one of the most effective is to make sure the attic is well-sealed and insulated. This simple and affordable project can help lower energy bills year-round.

NextGen Spray Foam Insulation  STAR offers free tools to help homeowners find out how much insulation they need in their attics and to select the best type for their climate. They also provide tips on how to seal leaks in the attic and throughout the house.

The single best improvement for most homes is adding insulation to the attic, including a reflective radiant barrier. This reduces solar heat gain, helps maintain the temperature of the attic, and allows conditioned air to flow more easily into living spaces. It’s particularly important in Texas, where many homes are under-insulated and overheated during the summer.

Attic Energy Optimization Ideas

A poorly insulated attic can let up to 85 percent of the heat in the house escape through the roof and ceilings. A simple touch test can help determine if additional insulation is needed. If the ceilings feel hot to the touch, it’s a sign that the attic is under-insulated.

Depending on the type of insulation, ENERGY STAR recommends installing at least R-30 or more in homes that don’t have enough insulation. In most cases, this can be accomplished with solid batts or sprayed fiberglass. If the current attic insulation is more than three-to-four inches thick, it should be removed and replaced with the recommended amount.

NextGen Spray Foam Insulation
Kila, MT 59920
(406) 871-3729