We know how complicated learning about and installing the appropriate insulation can be. At Alamance Insulation and Gutters, our experts have over 20 years of experience in helping homeowners evaluate and fix their home’s insulation needs. Since we focus on only existing homes, we are most able to handle the unique difficulties that come with getting insulation into those hard to reach places. It’s always best to let a professional install and repair your insulation for you. If your home is located in Greensboro, High Point, Burlington, NC or surrounding areas, don’t hesitate contacting us today!
Per our last blog post, we want to spend more time addressing some more frequently asked questions about insulation. Here are a few more common questions about insulation from the Insulation Contractors Association of America:
- What’s the difference between fiberglass, rock and slag wool, cellulose, and foam insulations? Fiberglass is made from molten sand or recycled glass and other inorganic materials under highly controlled conditions. Fiberglass is produced in batt, blanket, and loose-fill forms. Rock and slag wool are manufactured similarly to fiberglass, but use natural rock and blast furnace slag as its raw material. Typical forms are loose-fill, blanket, or board types. Cellulose is a loose-fill made from paper to which flame retardants are added. Foam insulations are available as rigid boards or foamed-in-place materials that can fill and seal blocks or building cavity spaces. Foams are also used in air sealing to fill gaps, cracks, or openings. Reflective materials are fabricated from aluminum foils with a variety of backings such as polyethylene bubbles and plastic film. Reflective insulations retard the transfer of heat; they can be tested by the same methods as mass insulation and therefore assigned an R-value. A Radiant Barrier is a building construction material consisting of a low emittance (normally 0.1 or less) surface (usually aluminum foil) bounded by an open air space. Radiant barriers are used for the sole purpose of limiting heat transfer by radiation.
- Why should I hire a professional insulation contractor rather than a home improvement or general contractor? ICAA-member professional insulation contractors devote their time to insulation contracting services and focus on your energy conservation and comfort. Proper installation is essential for insulation to perform properly. Knowledge of vapor retarders, air infiltration, ventilation, recessed lighting, and water pipes are just a few of the areas critical to installation techniques. Professional insulation contractors have access to a wide variety of training, are familiar with local codes and regulations, and can offer guidance about the type and amount of insulation to be used.
- What should I know before hiring an insulation contractor? Consider focusing your search on insulation contractors who are members of the Insulation Contractors Association of America (ICAA), the nonprofit trade association of insulation contractors and suppliers. You can find contractors in your area by visiting the ICAA contractor locator page. ICAA members must subscribe to the ICAA Members Code of Ethics. Get a written estimate before agreeing to any work. Before you hire a professional insulation contractor, take a look at Title 16, Section 460 of the Federal Trade Commission’s Code of Federal Regulations. The purpose of this regulation is to ensure that consumers are provided essential pre-purchase information about R-values. Find out what insulation contractors must tell their customers. Local or state governments may have additional rules and regulations regarding consumer contracts.
At Alamance Insulation and Gutters, we specialize in providing quality products and expert services to meet the unique needs of our customers. We provide quality gutters and insulation for our clients across central North Carolina, including Greensboro, Burlington, Mebane, Hillsborough, and High Point, NC. Whether you need installation or repairs done, we offer a variety of gutter, insulation, and moisture barrier services that will ensure the safety of your home and the comfort of your loved ones.