The idea that our houses should be a comfortable space that we call home and want to spend time in is one of the main points of owning a home of your own, so it makes sense to pay attention to how best to get it that way. You want your home to trap the heat inside in the cold seasons to keep you warm and save energy, and you also want it to reject outdoor heat in the warmer seasons. While the climate you live in might play a big part in your insulation choices, the type and application of the insulation can play a big part in how effective it is. Let’s look at blown-in insulation in Jacksonville, Florida as our example.
Types of Blown-In Insulation
Blown-in insulation in Jacksonville, FL will likely come with three options: cellulose, rock wool, or fiberglass. Each type comes with some advantages and disadvantages, and you should consult your specialist about which type they are using and why. Rock wool, for example, is typically the most expensive type, but it also has some fire-retardant qualities, so it might be recommended for apartment buildings, townhouses, or attached garages. Cellulose is also mold and fire-resistant but can lose its insulation value over time, especially if it gets wet from any kind of leak. Make sure you know what type of insulation is being used in your space.
Entry Points and Coverup
Blown-in insulation will usually be installed by way of an exterior entry point that feeds a hose that will blow your insulation into your walls and empty spaces. When the job is finished, the contractor should apply a cap or cover, but it may not always match your home and may end up being very unsightly and visible. When you’re looking to install blown-in insulation in Jacksonville, FL, be sure that you discuss with your contractor where their entry points will be and how they will be covered.
Effectiveness Over Time
We always want our home Renos to be perfect and to last forever, but that’s not always possible. Houses shift and materials wear. Blown-in insulation in Jacksonville, FL is no exception to the rule. Over time, especially in vertical walls, insulation can tend to settle as air slowly escapes. For example, you might see an 8ft tall wall that you filled with blown-in insulation settled down to just 7’6”. This can be solved by returning to your project spaces a few years later to blow in more material and prevent any decrease in the insulation’s effectiveness.
Knowing Your Space
When you’re installing blown-in insulation in Jacksonville, FL (or anywhere) you should consult stud finders and HVAC plans if they are available. While blowing in insulation is convenient and cost-effective (not having to rip down and replace drywall to get into a wall), obstructions such as vents or beams can keep your insulation from filling the full space, ultimately compromising your project’s usefulness.
Costs
At the end of the day, the amount on the bottom line of the invoice is also a factor largely to consider. While properly installed blown-in insulation should lower your energy bills in the future, the current costs are still important to homeowners. Check around with contractors who install blown-in insulation in Jacksonville, FL (or your city) and see what prices and installation plans they’ll have for your home—and be sure to make the most informed choice possible for you and your family! At Bold City Heating & Air, we’ll help you make the most informed and cost-effective decision for your home for all of your HVAC needs. Learn more about our blown-in insulation in Jacksonville, FL, and other services now.