4 Insulation Mistakes That Raise Costs—And How to Avoid Them
When it comes to home comfort and energy efficiency, insulation is one of the most important investments you can make. Proper insulation keeps your home warm in the winter, and cool in the summer, and helps reduce your energy bills.
However, insulation is only effective if it’s installed correctly. Unfortunately, many homeowners and even some contractors in Toronto make mistakes during the installation process that can lead to higher house insulation costs and decreased efficiency.
To ensure you're making the best choices for your home, it's essential to be aware of these common mistakes. For a more detailed breakdown of house insulation costs in 2024, be sure to check out our comprehensive New House Insulation Cost Guide for 2024. In this blog, we’ll explore some of the most common insulation mistakes and how you can avoid them.
Mistake 1:
Not Considering the R-Value
The R-value measures how well insulation resists heat flow. The higher the R-value, the better the insulation’s effectiveness. Using insulation with an insufficient R-value for your area can lead to inadequate insulation and increased house insulation costs due to energy loss.
How to Avoid It?
Check the recommended R-value for your region and make sure you’re using insulation that meets or exceeds those guidelines. For example, in Toronto, it’s recommended to use R-60 insulation in the attic, R-22 in walls above grade, and R-12 to R-14 in basement walls. Don’t skimp on R-value to save money upfront—it will cost you more in the long run.
Market Research Insight:
According to Energy Star, proper insulation can save homeowners up to 15% on heating and cooling costs. With the cost of spray foam insulation in Toronto averaging around $5.25 per square foot for R-20 and installation taking just one day, it’s clear that investing in high-quality insulation can pay off quickly. On the other hand, fiberglass insulation may be more budget-friendly initially, costing around $0.90 per square foot for R-12, but its lower R-value and shorter lifespan can lead to higher long-term costs.
Mistake 2:
Ignoring Air Leaks
Insulation works best when your home is sealed properly. If there are air leaks in your home, even the best insulation won’t be able to do its job effectively. Common areas for air leaks include windows, doors, chimneys, and the attic.
How to Avoid It?
Before insulating, make sure to seal all air leaks. Use caulking or weatherstripping around windows and doors, and seal any cracks or gaps in your attic and basement. This will help keep the warm air in during winter and the cool air in during summer, making your insulation much more effective.
Mistake 3:
Using the Wrong Type of Insulation
Not all insulation is created equal, and using the wrong type can lead to ineffective insulation and higher costs. For example, using fiberglass insulation in a damp basement can lead to mold and mildew problems.
How to Avoid It?
Consult with an insulation professional at Royal Insulation to choose the right type of insulation for each part of your home. Spray foam insulation in Toronto is great for sealing and insulating in one step, while fiberglass is more cost-effective for large areas like attics. Mineral wool is also excellent for its fire resistance and soundproofing qualities. Make sure to select the best material for each area to maximize efficiency and minimize house insulation costs.
For detailed information about the different types of insulation we offer, visit us at Royal Insulation.
Mistake 4:
Skimping on Professional Installation
Many homeowners try to save on house insulation costs by doing the installation themselves or hiring the cheapest contractor they can find. However, improper installation can lead to many of the mistakes mentioned above, resulting in poor insulation performance.
How to Avoid It?
While DIY projects can be satisfying, insulation is one area where it’s worth investing in professional help. An experienced insulation contractor in GTA will ensure that insulation is installed correctly and that all potential problems are addressed. This will save you money in the long run by preventing the need for costly repairs and ensuring your home is energy-efficient.
We recommend checking out all types of Insulations we offer, for more information on why hiring a professional can save you money in the long run.
Conclusion
Proper insulation is crucial for maintaining a comfortable and energy-efficient home. By avoiding these common insulation mistakes, you can ensure that your insulation performs at its best, keeping your house warm in the winter, cool in the summer, and your energy bills low.
If you’re concerned about the house insulation cost or want to ensure that your insulation is installed correctly, consider reaching out to a professional insulation contractor like Royal Insulation. We have the experience and expertise to get the job done right, saving you time, money, and headaches down the road.
Investing in quality insulation and installation today will pay off lower energy bills and a more comfortable home for years to come. Don’t leave your home’s insulation to chance—ensure it’s done right first.