Many homes, especially older ones, were constructed with little to no insulation. This oversight leaves houses inefficient, uncomfortable, and much more expensive to heat and cool. The good news is that existing homes can reap the rewards of retrofit insulation through retrofit installation. Adding insulation to already constructed houses is known as a “retrofit” project. In this complete guide, we’ll explore retrofitting insulation – the benefits, materials, process, costs and proper installation.
What is Retrofit Insulation?
A retrofit project entails adding insulation into areas of an existing home that currently have none, little or inadequate insulation. Common retrofit areas include ceilings, exterior & interior walls, floors, basements, crawl spaces, attics and more. Retrofitting insulation requires working around current construction, wiring, plumbing and finishes. The end goal is enhancing efficiency, comfort and moisture control.
Top Reasons for a Retrofit
There are many advantages to retrofitting insulation in older homes:
- Saves substantial money on energy bills – payback within 2-5 years
- Enhances temperature regulation and comfort
- Corrects condensation and moisture issues
- Reduces incoming noise levels
- Does not require full renovation like new construction
- Can be tailored to budget and schedule needs
- Increases property value and marketability
Types of Retrofit Insulation
Various insulation materials work for retrofit projects:
Batt Insulation: Fiberglass or rockwool batts make an affordable option for walls, floors and ceilings with enough space between framing.
Blown-in Insulation: Loose fill cellulose or fiberglass pieces easily insert into tight spaces.
Spray Foam: Polyurethane foam adheres well to surfaces and cracks for irregular shapes. Highest insulation value per inch.
Rigid Foam: Polystyrene or polyisocyanurate foam boards attach well to surfaces like basement walls.
Factors to Consider
When planning a retrofit, consider factors like:
- Location needing insulation
- Depth of cavities and access to fill spaces
- Existing airflow gaps that need sealing
- Surface materials and condition
- Local climate conditions and R-value needs
- Budget for materials and professional install
The Retrofit Process Step-By-Step
A professional retrofit entails:
- Initial Home Evaluation
Assess areas lacking insulation and options for each. - Air Seal Gaps Caulk, spray foam and weather strip leak points before insulating.
- Prepare Installation Plan Figure logistics like materials, required R-value and estimated costs.
- Insulate Open Cavities
Blow or stuff insulation into spaces like walls and hard-to-reach ceilings. - Create Protective Barriers
Add vapor retarders/facing materials if needed before enclosing insulation. - Patch Entry Points Seal any holes cut for nozzle access, re-install drywall, outlets, etc.
Cost Considerations
Retrofit costs vary based on house size, accessibility, insulation type and DIY vs. professional install. Expect to invest at least $1,000, but know that insulation leads to energy savings that typically pay for itself in under 5 years.
Getting the Most from Retrofit Projects
To maximize investment returns from insulation:
- Take advantage of rebates and tax incentives where available
- Ensure proper R-values for climate zone
- Leverage professional installer knowledge
- Perform recommended air sealing first
- Obtain all needed permits
- Consider layering insulation types for maximum efficiency
The optimal thermal protection and efficiency gains make retrofitting insulation in existing homes well worth the initial install costs. Start reaping rewards this year through temp regulation, air sealing, energy and cost savings.
Conclusion
Do not resign older homes as eternally drafty, inefficient and uncomfortable. Strategically planning and executing insulation retrofit projects can cost-effectively transform the functionality of existing spaces without full scale remodeling. Tailor insulation solutions to the unique needs of each room or area, sealing leaks and gaps prior to installing quality insulation designed for regional climate challenges. Consult qualified attic insulation contractors to evaluate your home and propose custom retrofit recommendations that make sense. A home with insufficient insulation wastes money and misses out on benefits to comfort, air quality, safety and market value. Take control this season – make your next retrofit project all about insulation.