Have you started feeling uncomfortable in your home? Are family members complaining more often and you can’t find the source of their complaints? The time may have come to examine your crawl space or attic and see if they are adding to the discomfort occupants of the home are feeling. If you see any of the following issues in the house, call for someone to clean or insulate the crawl space.
Higher Energy Bills
An increase in energy bills often shows a need for more insulation in the home. Crawl space insulation is compromised by several factors. This includes pests, decay, and mold, among others. Have a professional go under the home to assess the condition of the insulation and make recommendations for how to resolve any identified issues. The crawl space cleaners know what to look for and won’t miss any existing or potential problems.
A Change in Indoor Temperatures
Occupants of a home may notice the home seems colder this year than in past winters. Maybe drafts have become more noticeable on a windy day, or the air conditioner appears to be working longer and harder on those hot summer nights. Insulation helps to protect the home from the elements. If the temperature in the home has changed enough that everyone is noticing, the crawl space insulation could be the culprit.
An Animal Invasion
Homeowners need to recognize animals can make their way into the crawl space if it isn’t insulated properly. This includes mice, bats, snakes, and squirrels. Humans don’t want to share their residence with pests, as their presence can lead to health issues and lasting damage to the property. Pay attention to any unusual noises and determine if they result from animals taking up residence in your home. Unusual smells serve as another sign animals are sharing your residence and need to be found and identified.
Wet Insulation
Wet insulation in the crawl space means moisture is making its way into the home from the outside. Blocked vents, a flood in the basement, or a leak in the roof can lead to this issue. Replace wet insulation immediately, as any moisture in the crawl space or attic can bring about other issues like mold or mildew.
Mold and Mildew
Mold and mildew anywhere in the home can lead to issues. Problems arise when the mold grows in the crawl space, as the homeowner cannot see it unless someone goes under the house to complete a task. When mold and mildew grow in the home, the occupants may develop allergy-like symptoms, and those with asthma or other respiratory conditions have the most issues. Contact a professional to have the mold and mildew removed, as doing so without the proper protective gear is dangerous.
Compacted Insulation
Over time, the insulation in your attic or crawl space will settle and become compacted. The time to do so depends on several factors, but no insulation lasts forever. If your insulation needs replacement, contact a professional to clean the crawl space and replace the insulation, ensuring they use the correct R-Value.
Decaying Materials
As mentioned above, insulation doesn’t last forever. Today, manufacturers use fiberglass to make insulation. In the past, people often used cotton and wool for this purpose. These materials break down quickly, and homeowners should replace them before issues arise.
Peek under your home today or up in your attic. See if either area needs a good cleaning. Most homeowners find the answer to this question is yes. If the same is true for you, contact the professionals today. They’ll ensure the job is done right.
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