When to Replace Your Attic Insulation
Canadawarm Insulation for Northern Winnipeg
Why Attic Insulation Matters More Than You Think
Attic insulation isn’t just about keeping your home warm in winter and cool in summer. It plays a major role in your home’s energy efficiency, indoor air quality, and overall structural health.
Poor or outdated insulation leads to energy waste and higher utility bills, and in places like Manitoba where winters are long and harsh, that inefficiency really adds up. Whether you live in an older home or just haven’t checked your attic in years, understanding the condition of your insulation is key.
Signs Your Attic Insulation Is No Longer Doing Its Job
Not all insulation problems are obvious. If your energy bills are creeping up or some rooms feel drafty, your attic insulation might be underperforming. Other signs include uneven temperatures throughout your home, frequent ice damming on the roof, or the presence of pests in the attic. These symptoms often point to air leaks and weakened insulation, both of which contribute to attic energy loss.
How Moisture Can Ruin Attic Insulation Over Time
One of the most common hidden threats in an attic is moisture. A small roof leak, humid air from inside the house, or poor ventilation can all lead to damp insulation. Over time, this moisture can cause the insulation to compact, grow mold, or lose its insulating value altogether. Effective attic moisture control—through vapor barriers, sealing, and the right materials—can prevent this damage and extend the life of your insulation.
Understanding R-Value and Energy Efficiency
R-value is the measurement of an insulation material’s resistance to heat flow. The higher the R-value, the better it insulates. In Manitoba, it’s generally recommended to aim for R-50 to R-60 in the attic to ensure efficient temperature control throughout the year. If your current insulation isn’t reaching that level, your attic may be a major source of heat loss in winter and heat gain in summer.
Common Types of Attic Insulation
Different insulation types have different lifespans. Blown-in cellulose typically lasts around 20–30 years but can settle and lose effectiveness earlier. Fiberglass insulation can also degrade, especially if it has been exposed to moisture or pests. Spray foam insulation—particularly closed-cell—has one of the longest lifespans and offers excellent air sealing. Understanding what type is in your attic helps you gauge whether it’s time to replace or upgrade.
What to Consider When Replacing Attic Insulation
Before you install anything new, the space should be inspected and prepped. Air leaks need to be sealed, ventilation assessed, and moisture barriers installed where needed. Some attics may need baffles installed to maintain airflow from soffit vents. Choosing the right material is important too—fiberglass, cellulose, and spray foam all serve different purposes depending on the structure and condition of your attic.
Spray Foam vs. Blow-In: What’s Better for Replacement?
Blown-in insulation (cellulose or fiberglass) is affordable and fast to install, especially in wide-open attics. However, it doesn’t provide an air seal. Spray foam, while more expensive, offers superior attic energy loss control and acts as a vapor barrier when closed-cell foam is used. In older homes with inconsistent framing or moisture concerns, spray foam may be the better long-term solution.
Final Thoughts: Don’t Let Your Attic Work Against You
Old or underperforming insulation silently drives up your energy costs and affects the health of your home. If you’ve noticed higher utility bills, uneven temperatures, or moisture issues, your attic might be due for an upgrade. Replacing insulation isn’t just about comfort—it’s about protecting your home and making it more energy efficient year-round.