Winters in the Boise area bring not only extremely cold temperatures but also inclement weather at times. The good news is, there are many ways to stay comfortable without breaking the bank. One such home solution is insulation.
But this goes beyond simply installing a sufficient amount. It must be in top condition to effectively perform and keep your home comfortable (and energy-efficient). The bad news? The inclement weather we mentioned often means rain and snow. And when insulation gets wet, it doesn’t perform the way it’s supposed to.
Causes of Wet Insulation
It’s important to make sure your insulation stays nice and dry, not only in the winter but all year long. How does insulation get wet? There are several different ways your insulation can get wet, including:
- Leaks from the roof and/or plumbing pipes
- Ground moisture (basement and crawl space insulation)
- Air infiltration from windows, doors, gaps in siding, etc.
- Mold (spores can enter through air infiltration)
- Snow (it can be blown into the attic through a vent)
What Should I Do with Wet Insulation?
Should wet insulation be replaced? Is wet insulation completely ruined? These are questions many homeowners have. Enough moisture can ruin insulation materials; wet insulation should be removed and replaced. If your insulation is merely a little damp, removal may not be worth it. It’s best to have a professional take a look. There are times when new insulation can be added over old layers, but moldy, wet or otherwise damaged insulation should be removed.
Contact Big City Insulation of Idaho to learn more or to schedule insulation removal and replacement for your home!
