One of the most effective ways property owners can save money on heating and cooling costs throughout the year is by making sure the building has enough insulation. Insulation plays a key role in minimizing heat loss that occurs through the roof and walls of the building. A qualified Atlanta roofer can evaluate commercial and residential buildings to determine if they have the proper amount of insulation.
When running the air conditioner during the summer, hot air from outside naturally flows inside where the air is cooler. During the winter, the opposite occurs as heated air from inside flows into the attic, garage, and other unheated spaces. Insulation acts as a physical barrier to block the flow of hot air.
The industry uses an R-value standard to rate an insulation product's level of thermal resistance. The density of the material, its thickness, and its composition determine how resistant the insulation is to heat. The higher the R-value, the more resistant to heat the insulation is.
R-value standards for buildings are determined by the Department of Energy. The most important factor in assigning R-value standards is the climate. A building in a region with a mild climate requires insulation with a lower R-value. Conversely, buildings that experience extreme temperatures require insulation with a higher R-value.
The attic is usually the least energy efficient zone in any building because there is no system to heat or cool it and it frequently lacks sufficient ventilation. The attic in the winter will be approximately the same temperature as the outdoor air. During the summer, it can be up to 40 degrees hotter than outdoors. Installing the right insulation can reduce the heat loss.
Any professional roofer can inspect a building's existing insulation to determine its R-value. The DOE occasionally changes the standards based on climate data. This means an older building, which had the proper R-value at the time, does not comply with current standards. Installing additional insulation will raise the R-value and result in lower energy bills year round.
Building owners can consult with a local roofer and schedule an appointment for an inspection. If more insulation is needed, the roofer will review the different types available and help the consumer choose the best option. Cellulose, foam, and fiberglass are the three most common types of insulation found in attics. Each has its own unique properties, which the roofer can outline so the consumer can make an informed decision. Adding the proper amount of insulation will immediately lower energy costs while extending the life of the building's heating and air conditioning system.
When running the air conditioner during the summer, hot air from outside naturally flows inside where the air is cooler. During the winter, the opposite occurs as heated air from inside flows into the attic, garage, and other unheated spaces. Insulation acts as a physical barrier to block the flow of hot air.
The industry uses an R-value standard to rate an insulation product's level of thermal resistance. The density of the material, its thickness, and its composition determine how resistant the insulation is to heat. The higher the R-value, the more resistant to heat the insulation is.
R-value standards for buildings are determined by the Department of Energy. The most important factor in assigning R-value standards is the climate. A building in a region with a mild climate requires insulation with a lower R-value. Conversely, buildings that experience extreme temperatures require insulation with a higher R-value.
The attic is usually the least energy efficient zone in any building because there is no system to heat or cool it and it frequently lacks sufficient ventilation. The attic in the winter will be approximately the same temperature as the outdoor air. During the summer, it can be up to 40 degrees hotter than outdoors. Installing the right insulation can reduce the heat loss.
Any professional roofer can inspect a building's existing insulation to determine its R-value. The DOE occasionally changes the standards based on climate data. This means an older building, which had the proper R-value at the time, does not comply with current standards. Installing additional insulation will raise the R-value and result in lower energy bills year round.
Building owners can consult with a local roofer and schedule an appointment for an inspection. If more insulation is needed, the roofer will review the different types available and help the consumer choose the best option. Cellulose, foam, and fiberglass are the three most common types of insulation found in attics. Each has its own unique properties, which the roofer can outline so the consumer can make an informed decision. Adding the proper amount of insulation will immediately lower energy costs while extending the life of the building's heating and air conditioning system.
About the Author:
Andrew B. Spates is a home improvement specialist who helps individual homeowners make the right choices to protect their home investment. If you are interested in learning more about Atlanta Roofing Contractor he suggests you click here to learn more.