Vapor barriers are a type of plastic film designed to be impermeable so as to prevent moisture from seeping through. They’re frequently used as part of a building envelope in walls and ceilings, and can also be used underneath certain flooring installations. One of the most common questions Northern California residents have when remodeling a room or finishing off a basement concerns in which situations vapor barriers are needed after putting in the insulation. Not every wall requires a vapor barrier—keep in mind that it’s used to prevent water vapor from getting in through the protected surface. To determine whether... View Article
Proper insulation is one of the most important investments you can make in your home to conserve energy and keep the interior of your home comfortable all year long. When installing new insulation in Northern California, you’ll have a wide range of options available, including rigid board insulation. The most popular types of insulation across the country are generally batts or mats of soft insulation, but there are also fiberglass, cellulose and natural wool insulation materials that are popular alternatives. With rigid board insulation, you get hard, dense sheets of foam, typically polystyrene or polyurethane. The chemical structure of these... View Article
Nearly 85 percent of a home’s heat loss happens through the attic. When your attic is not insulated, you lose heat, which escapes your home and raises your utility bills as your HVAC system works harder. However, even the best-insulated attics need maintenance to stay efficient. Here are five tips on how to make your Northern California attic more energy efficient: Seal cracks: Attic air leaks are a common culprit when energy efficiency drops. Cracks, holes and weak points throughout the attic allow outdoor air inside, where it works against your HVAC. Start by sealing these cracks and gaps and... View Article
An insulated attic offers a tight seal to keep heat in your home during the winter. If insulation deteriorates, you face drafts and high energy bills and leave your home vulnerable to rodents, allergens and mold. Here are six signs showing when it’s time to replace your home insulation in Northern California: Rodent infestation: If your home was rodent-free for years, and now you experience mice or rats, the problem may be your insulation. Rodents love to nest in damaged insulation, and as they get cozy, they add to the wear and tear. If you find droppings and pieces of... View Article
Homeowners less acquainted with the world of insulation might believe fiberglass batts and rolls are the only option. Little do they know, alternatives such as spray foam and mineral wool have greater insulation properties. A contractor in Northern California will introduce you to options that are best for your home, but for now, here’s what you need to know about the types of home insulation. Rigid panels Rigid panels are constructed with dense foam that’s cut to fit in between stud cavities, floor joists and rafters. The panels can have an R-value up to 6.5 and are one of the... View Article
