Commercial insulation is the backbone of your building, keeping your customers or employees warm and comfortable. However, as warm air retreats and winter weather settles in, maintenance is essential for reducing air leaks, boosting heat flow, and keeping utility bills low.
Luckily, there are a few ways you can keep your existing insulation energy efficient. To find out more, let’s dive into everything you need to know about maintaining mineral wool, spray foam, and other types of insulation this winter.
5 Essential Winter Maintenance Tips for Your Commercial Attic Insulation
1. Inspect The Insulation
While this might seem self-explanatory, it’s important to understand what you’re looking for. Whether you have mineral wool or spray foam insulation, a solid inspection is the first step to any winter maintenance. Here’s what you should look out for:
- Gaps or Voids: Check for any missing sections or uneven coverage throughout the attic.
- Signs of Moisture: Leaks and condensation can cause major issues, so look for damp spots, water stains, or signs of mold.
- Compression or Settling: Analyze the space to see if the insulation has shifted or compacted.
- Pest Damage: Check for signs of rodents or insects, such as droppings, nests, or gnawed material.
- Air Leaks: Put water on your hand or use smoke pencils to identify areas that need better air sealing.
2. Clean The Attic Thoroughly
Whether you notice any issues with your insulation or not, deep cleaning the attic can help boost the performance of both your insulation and heating system. We recommend this step-by-step process:
- 1. Remove Surface Dust: Dust can cause air quality issues, especially in loose-fill insulation. Use a broom or handheld vacuum to clear dust from accessible areas.
- 2. Check for Debris: Once smaller dust particles are removed, pick up any loose debris or small objects scattered throughout the attic insulation.
- 3. Organize Stored Items: Poorly stored items can attract pests and create fire hazards. To avoid this, take the time to belongings neatly, using plastic bins to protect them or moving them when possible.
3. Remedy Roof and Wall Leaks
With nothing to stand between your commercial building’s attic insulation and roof, sealing leaks is essential for preventing insulation damage and the unwanted temperature changes that follow.
After cleaning the attic, try to pinpoint where air leaks or wet spots are coming from. Sometimes loose shingles and roof leaks can be fixed with simple roofing tar or sealant, but generally, we recommend hiring a professional. Eco Tec’s technicians are experts in sealing leaks and adding insulation to replace any damage.
4. Winterize Plumbing
Commercial buildings often have insulated plumping in the attic. Interactions between these pipes and insulation can cause a host of problems, from water leaking into the insulation to poorly insulated pipes freezing. During the cleaning process, take note of any water damage with no visible external source. In many ways, a lack of proper insulation can be one of the primary culprits in causing your pipes to burst. Here are some ways you can prepare your plumbing for the colder months:
- Wrap Exposed Pipes: Use foam pipe insulation or heat tape to protect pipes from freezing temperatures.
- Seal Gaps: Seal any gaps around pipe openings to prevent cold air from entering.
- Check Insulation Coverage: Make sure pipes are fully surrounded by insulation for protection against freezing.
- Drain Unused Water Lines: Drain any pipes that won’t be used during winter to prevent freezing.
- Monitor for Condensation: Look for excess moisture on pipes and address ventilation issues if needed.
5. Consider New Insulation Installation
If you find that your insulation is beyond repair, or simply don’t know where to start, Eco Tec’s expert technicians can help. We can add insulation or fully replace it, helping you save on energy bills all winter long. Unlike DIY attempts, professionals apply insulation evenly and effectively to gaps and prevent air leaks that could undermine energy efficiency.
Signs It’s Time for an Insulation Overhaul
Knowing when your existing insulation is no longer doing its job is crucial. Look out for:
- Increased Utility Bills: A spike in heating and cooling costs, especially if your usage hasn’t increased, could signal an insulation issue.
- Inconsistent Room Temperatures: Hot or cold spots (spaces with both hot and cold air) within your home are often indicative of inadequate insulation levels.
- Pest Infestations: Rodents and insects are attracted to certain insulation types or use them for nesting, which could damage or contaminate them.
- Visible Damage: Water damage, mold, or signs of deterioration are clear indicators that your insulation is likely compromised.
Schedule an Insulation Assessment Today
To maximize energy efficiency and comfort in your commercial building this winter, Eco Tec Insulation can assess your current insulation and create a detailed plan. Schedule a consultation with our experts to evaluate your insulation and receive personalized installation services. Contact us today at (847) 675-1400 to schedule your insulation assessment and enhance your building’s performance.