If, despite insulating your home, your energy bills are still rising, your insulation may have deteriorated. Over time, the insulation wears down, which can degrade your home’s thermal protection. That said, it is important to know how long the insulation will last, so that you know when it needs to be replaced. Habitat EnR tells us more!
Typical life span of insulation
Studies have shown that sprayed foam insulation can last more than 80 years. While cellulose wadding and rock wool can last up to 100 years. Although this may seem long and reassuring, many homeowners may neglect this important parameter. Owners often buy a property with old insulation. When this happens, they overestimate the lifespan of their insulation.
What affects the life of the insulation?
The insulation in your home is durable and modern insulation is weather and moisture resistant. That said, all insulation is weak in many ways. Even if you use modern insulation, you will need to check for water damage. Roof leaks can cause the insulation to degrade over time because mould growth can corrode the outside and inside of the insulation.
The Different Types of Insulation
Although time can damage any type of insulation, different types of insulation have advantages against regular degradation:
Cellulose wadding
Cellulose is made from recycled paper. It is a green option that fits easily into enclosed spaces, wall gaps and attics. It is the best choice for floor insulation, but it requires a lot of maintenance.
Fiberglass
Fibreglass is a widely used type of insulation. It is inexpensive and is easily installed in exposed ceilings and floors. It has a very good life span, is easy to install and can protect your home for many years.
Polyurethane foam
Although spray polyurethane foam insulation is a little more expensive than fiberglass, it can better limit air leakage, prevent water leakage and even prevent mold growth. It’s an insulation that’s in high demand, and its instant installation capabilities make it an incredibly popular alternative to other types of insulation.
Whichever insulation you choose, it will require constant monitoring. Your insulation can degrade over time, and it is your responsibility to make sure it lasts. If you are buying an older home, ask the previous owner for information on the date and type of insulation used. If you need to evaluate the state of your insulation or to redo it, we recommend that you contact Habitat ENR, its team will not only explain the different possible solutions, but will also offer you a heat balance free of charge.
