For most homes, insulation is a practical and cost-effective way to achieve optimal energy efficiency while creating a cozy environment. Good insulation will help prevent heat from escaping through the walls and roof during the winter, and deter cool air from leaving the home in the summer. Of course, the efficiency of your home will largely depend on the insulation contractor who installed the material. Make the mistake of hiring the wrong contractor and you will likely notice the results of his shoddy work within the first few months. Here are just a few benefits of hiring an expert contractor.
Why Hire a Professional Insulation Contractor?
Experience
No amount of formal training can make up for hands-on experience in the field. Whether you are a do-it-yourselfer or are considering hiring a friend or family member with minimal knowledge or experience in installing insulation, the results will likely be inferior compared to the work a real professional can do. Experienced insulation contractors know how to fill every nook and cranny to avoid costly air leaks around your home. They can also get the project done quickly and efficiently to keep costs as low as possible.
Knowledge
Do you know what type of insulation is best based on your climate, home design, and area of house? If not, you could probably benefit from the knowledge and know-how of an insulation contractor. There are many types of insulation used in residential properties, ranging from versatile spray foams and fiberglass to soundproofing batting sheets and blow-in insulation. An experienced insulation contractor will know these products in and out, including what brands offer the best quality for your dollar. In addition to a contractor’s skills, you are also paying for their knowledge. Therefore, do not be afraid to ask questions.
Proper Tools
Having the right tools for the job can make a dramatic difference in the outcome of your project. When installing insulation, you need specific tools not owned by the average DIYer. A professional insulation contractor will arrive to your home with the correct tools in hand to get the job completed successfully in as little as one visit. Depending on the type of insulation being installed, it is not unusual to need tools such as expanding foam sealant, chalk line, caulking gun, drywall, extruded polystyrene foam, a power-activated gun with fasteners, and various other tools and materials required for an expert install.
Removal
If replacing insulation in your walls or ceiling, you will likely need to remove old insulation. As insulation is designed to trap dirt, dust, and various pollutants in its fibers, you can bet that your old insulation is hazardous. In some instances, old insulation will also have asbestos or mold growth, requiring additional caution to avoid breathing in the dangerous toxins. A professional insulation contractor understands the risks associated with insulation removal and knows what safety guidelines to follow to minimize these risks. You will find that most contractors use precautions when removing old insulation, such as wearing a mask or special eyewear.
Energy-Efficiency
It is important to not only look at the short-term picture when installing insulation in your home, but also the long-term. A good insulation contractor will work hard to help you optimize your energy savings by placing quality insulation that keeps heat in during the winter and hot air out during the summer. Depending on your budget and the structure of your home, an experienced insulation contractor can select and install insulation in areas that would best benefit your home and use the insulation to the best of its ability.
Disposal
In addition to removing old insulation from your home, it is also important to ensure that it is properly disposed of. Old insulation is not something you can simply throw away in your trash. Most areas have regulations in place that deter people from disposing of hazardous materials like insulation in ways that are not considered safe. Insulation disposal requires experience, and in most cases, should not be handled by the average homeowner. A professional insulation contractor will safely bag up any old insulation and dispose of it in a way that meets local disposal regulations.
What Are the Consequences of Hiring a Low-End Contractor?
While hiring a quality insulation contractor will no doubt cost you more than doing the job yourself or hiring a low-end contractor, the results are often worth the extra cash. When you hire a low-end contractor to complete the job, you are putting your home and family at risk. Inferior contractors may not follow safe insulation removal and disposal guidelines which could cause the pollutants and toxins found in old insulation to affect your home’s indoor air quality.
Low-end contractors may also choose to use lesser quality materials in order to earn a bigger profit. They are often more concerned about their bottom line then providing you with high-quality services. This lack of professionalism and attention to detail is often evident in the business’s customer reviews. In addition to using poorly made materials, a low-end contractor may also deliver inferior workmanship. The insulation may not be installed correctly or there may be areas missing insulation.
When insulation is not installed properly, you can expect to lose a significant amount of energy efficiency. You may notice that your energy bills are not lowered after installing new insulation. In some cases, your energy bills may even go up if the installer failed to cover all essential areas. Along with higher energy bills you may experience air leaks resulting in a lower level of indoor comfort during the summer and winter months.
Why Contact the Pros at Beyond Exteriors?
If you need professional insulation installation in your home, contact the experts at Beyond Exteriors. Since 2010, Beyond Exteriors has been serving residents in the VA, MD, and DC areas with high-quality home improvement services. For more information about our services, to get an estimate, or to schedule service, call our office or fill out our convenient question form on our website.