Notice we said “right amount.” There are actually millions of homes in the United States that are under-insulated. Of course, not having enough insulation can result in higher costs and an uncomfortable home, but can a home have too much insulation? The short answer is: Yes, it can!
Can You Over-Insulate Your Home?
Homes need insulation, and more is generally a good thing. But there may be a theoretical point of “too much.” If a home is over-insulated and is too tightly sealed, moisture can get trapped inside. Without proper ventilation, a home can build up too much moisture, especially in the attic (warm air rises), which can cause mold problems and, overall, lower indoor air quality.
This is not to say that if you have more mold in your home than seems normal, too much insulation is the culprit. Most homes and buildings in Western New York—and across the country—are under-insulated. Dampness and mold issues in a home have a number of more common causes, such as an old or malfunctioning HVAC system (sometimes a dehumidifier is the solution), broken sump pump in the basement or leaking pipe.
But if you’re noticing anything off, a home insulation inspection can be worth it! There’s a small chance your home may be over-insulated, but there’s a much better chance you don’t have enough insulation, particularly if you’ve noticed:
- Higher than normal energy bills (without an increase in usage)
- Drafts or uneven temperatures from room to room
- An unusually warm second floor in your home
This is why we don’t recommend DIY projects—professional jobs help ensure materials are installed correctly and safely and the right amount of insulation for maximum energy savings and comfort.
Home Insulation in Western New York
Think you may need insulation installation? The team at Town Building Systems has you covered. We install the highest quality materials and will explain exactly what we’re doing and why so you’re never left wondering. Contact us today to get a free estimate or schedule your installation!
