When it comes to energy efficiency and comfort, selecting the right attic insulation type for your Paradise home is essential. Insulation's main function is to maintain the home's temperature by preventing heat loss in the winter and keeping the interior cool in the summer. Given the Paradise climate, with its unique combination of both warm and cool seasons, the insulation we choose must perform splendidly under very different conditions. We considered the most popular options: cost-effective fiberglass batts that are easy to install; blown-in cellulose, which is able to fill the odd nooks and crannies of the attic; and spray foam, which, although pricier, has been used successfully in the deepest of freeze conditions because it is so good at sealing up all the little spaces and stopping air from moving through the insulation itself.
When it comes to attic insulation, assessing the current state of the insulation is necessary before making any upgrades or changes. An energy audit can determine your attic's R-value. In some of the older homes in Paradise, it may be that the existing insulation is either insufficient or degraded. Upgrading your insulation or replacing it with something that has a higher R-value should result in immediate payoffs in your energy bills and comfort level. Insulation works best when it is properly paired with ventilation. Inadequate or excessive ventilation can impair efficiency and lead to some of the same problems that poor insulation does. You can consult with a specialized contractor to help make these determinations and for guidance on which materials might serve you best under the circumstances.
When choosing Paradise attic insulation, sustainability and environmental impact are also important factors to consider. Some insulation materials are made from recycled content and have lower overall environmental impacts, which may appeal to more eco-conscious homeowners. For example, cellulose insulation is made from recycled paper. It is treated with non-toxic fire retardants and is net positive in terms of carbon emissions avoided vs. those incurred during the life of the product. Similarly, some spray foam options now also use more "green" blowing agents. They're made with renewable resources, as well. It's worth noting, too, that not only does the Paradise attic insulation make your home more energy efficient, which reduces your energy bills, but it also reduces the home's carbon footprint by lowering the energy used to heat and cool it.
