# Standard Insulating Company > Insulation contractor in Charlotte, North Carolina ### Energy Savings for Your Charlotte Home If you're a Charlotte homeowner thinking about improving your home, you might start with what you can see: a kitchen update, new flooring, or a bathroom upgrade. But the best investment you can make for daily comfort, lower energy bills, and healthier air is insulation. It’s the workhorse of your home, quietly saving you money and making every room more comfortable, summer and winter. Energy Savings Start with the Right Insulation Many homes in the Charlotte area were built before modern insulation standards were adopted. Even newer homes are often under-insulated because code minimums don’t necessarily deliver true comfort or energy savings. The result is higher utility bills, uneven temperatures, and HVAC systems that work harder than they should. When insulation is properly installed throughout the home, paired with air sealing, it slows heat transfer and stops conditioned air from leaking out. That’s what drives energy savings and a noticeable improvement in comfort. Understanding Where Homes Lose Energy The average Charlotte home leaks energy in multiple places. Here’s where the biggest offenders tend to be: Attic Insulation Charlotte homes should have attic insulation rated at least R-38. That helps prevent heat buildup in summer and retains warmth during winter. Older homes may have little more than R-19, which is not enough for this climate. Without adequate attic insulation, the stack effect takes over. Warm air escapes through the attic in winter, pulling cold air up from the crawl space. In summer, attic heat pushes down into living spaces, making your air conditioner work overtime. Wall Insulation If your home was built before the 1980s, the walls may have little to no insulation. Even homes built later often benefit from blown-in insulation to fill wall cavities completely. Without it, walls transfer heat too easily, leading to hot and cold spots around your house. Wall insulation also reduces noise transmission, creating quieter living spaces and improving overall comfort. Floor Insulation Rooms built over unconditioned spaces like garages, porches, or crawl spaces often suffer from cold floors and heat loss in winter. Floor insulation adds a protective barrier that helps maintain consistent temperatures from top to bottom. Crawl Space Insulation and Encapsulation Most Charlotte homes have vented crawl spaces, which invite in moisture, pests, and unconditioned air. That’s a direct hit to both comfort and energy savings. Encapsulating the crawl space with insulation, a vapor barrier, and air sealing blocks that flow of outside air and cuts down on energy waste. Crawl space insulation, combined with encapsulation, also prevents mold and mildew growth that can compromise indoor air quality. Radiant Barrier Radiant barrier installation in the attic adds another layer of protection against heat gain in the summer. According to the U.S. Department of Energy, radiant barriers can lower cooling costs by 5% to 10% when properly installed over attic rafters and combined with insulation upgrades. The Role of Air Sealing in Energy Savings Insulation slows down heat transfer, but without air sealing, your home still leaks conditioned air through gaps, cracks, and openings you may not even notice. Air sealing is essential to close off these pathways, which can be found around: Plumbing penetrations Electrical outlets Ductwork Attic hatches Recessed lighting Sealing these leaks reduces drafts, improves energy efficiency, and supports the performance of your insulation. Air Quality: The Hidden Benefit of Insulation and Air Sealing Indoor air quality often suffers when a home is under-insulated and poorly sealed. Outside air brings in pollutants like pollen, dust, mold spores, and pest waste. When your home is sealed and insulated properly, it blocks these contaminants from entering your living space. Crawl space encapsulation is particularly important in Charlotte, where humidity levels are high. A sealed crawl space with proper insulation prevents the buildup of moisture that fosters mold growth. Mold spores can travel into your home through the stack effect, worsening allergy and respiratory conditions. Common Signs You’re Losing Energy High energy bills that don’t align with neighbors Uneven temperatures between floors or rooms Drafts or cold spots HVAC running constantly Poor indoor air quality Pest activity in the attic or crawl space Insulation that appears old, damp, or compressed Whole-Home Insulation vs. Partial Fixes Homeowners often ask if adding attic insulation alone will solve their problems. While it can help, the real gains come from a whole-home approach. Addressing the attic, walls, floors, crawl space, and air sealing as a system ensures that energy savings are maximized across the entire home. The Payoffs of a Comprehensive Insulation Strategy Consistent Comfort Upgrading insulation throughout the home creates even temperatures in every room. That means no more sweltering bonus rooms or frigid floors. Significant Energy Savings According to the U.S. Department of Energy and ENERGY STAR, sealing air leaks and adding insulation can reduce heating and cooling costs by up to 15% in existing homes. Learn how attic upgrades improve Charlotte home performance—especially when older homes have only R-19 or less. Improved Air Quality Blocking moisture and contaminants with encapsulation, insulation, and air sealing means cleaner air inside. That’s crucial for families dealing with allergies or asthma. Extended HVAC Lifespan Less energy loss means less strain on your HVAC system. That reduces repairs and extends the lifespan of your furnace and air conditioner. Enhanced Home Value Energy efficiency is increasingly important to homebuyers. Features like attic insulation, wall insulation, crawl space encapsulation, and radiant barriers make your home more attractive and marketable. Soundproofing Benefits Insulation, especially in walls and floors, dampens noise. That creates a quieter home, whether it’s from street traffic, neighbors, or between floors. Special Focus: Bonus Rooms and Home Offices Many Charlotte homes feature bonus rooms over garages or converted attics. These spaces are often uncomfortable because they were not originally insulated properly. Adding targeted insulation, air sealing, and in some cases a radiant barrier can make these rooms comfortable workspaces or play areas. With remote work becoming more common, ensuring your home office is properly insulated helps reduce distractions from noise and keeps temperatures stable throughout the workday. Debunking the Myth of Over-Insulating Some homeowners worry about over-insulating, but this is rarely a concern when ventilation is managed properly. The key is to balance insulation with appropriate air sealing and mechanical ventilation to control humidity and maintain healthy air exchange. At Standard Insulating Company, we ensure every upgrade aligns with Charlotte’s building science standards. That means energy savings without compromising ventilation or indoor air quality. Start Saving Energy in Your Charlotte Home Choosing between a cosmetic upgrade and an energy-saving improvement? Insulation and air sealing pay you back every day in comfort, energy savings, and healthier air. It’s a smart investment that improves how your home feels and operates. Standard Insulating Company has been helping Charlotte-area homeowners for over 80 years. Our expertise in local housing stock, climate conditions, and energy performance means we deliver solutions that work. Start with a free energy analysis. We’ll inspect your attic, walls, floors, crawl space, and check for air sealing opportunities. Then we’ll give you a clear plan to achieve the energy savings you’ve been looking for. Schedule your free energy analysis today and start making your home more efficient, comfortable, and healthier. ### Signs You Should Encapsulate Your Crawl Space Most Charlotte homes with crawl spaces were never built to be energy efficient or moisture resistant. That means they are one of the most common problem areas we find when inspecting homes across the region. Crawl space encapsulation fixes that by sealing, insulating, and protecting this hidden part of your home. But how do you know when it’s time to encapsulate your crawl space? Here are the most common signs. 1. Musty Smells in the House If your home smells musty and damp, there’s a good chance your crawl space is the source. Moisture from the crawl space doesn’t stay contained. It rises into the home and carries that unpleasant odor with it. 2. Mold in the Crawl Space or on Lower Floors Where there’s moisture, there’s mold. If you see mold growing in your crawl space or along the lower walls and floors of your home, that’s a red flag that moisture is getting in. Mold isn’t just an eyesore—it impacts air quality and can trigger respiratory issues. 3. Wet or Sagging Insulation in the Crawl Space If your crawl space insulation is damp, sagging, or falling down, it’s not doing its job. Insulation loses its effectiveness when it gets wet, which means your home is more vulnerable to energy loss and moisture problems. 4. Pests, Insects, and Rodents An unsealed crawl space is an open invitation for pests. Insects, rodents, and even snakes like to nest in these dark, damp areas. If you’ve seen or heard signs of critters below your home, encapsulation can help keep them out for good. 5. Soft or Bouncy Floors Moisture in the crawl space can rot and weaken the wooden framing that supports your floors. If your floors feel soft, bouncy, or uneven, that could be a structural warning sign coming from the crawl space. 6. High Humidity or Condensation Inside the Home Excess humidity in your crawl space can affect the rest of the house. If you notice condensation on your windows or humidity that makes the air feel heavy, the problem may be starting below your floors. 7. Allergy or Asthma Symptoms Indoors When the air in your crawl space is full of mold spores, dust, and pest contaminants, it circulates upward into the living space. If you or your family experience worsening allergies or asthma symptoms indoors, poor crawl space conditions could be contributing. 8. Rising Energy Bills A poorly insulated and unsealed crawl space makes your HVAC system work harder. Hot air seeps in during summer, and cold air moves in during winter. If your energy bills have climbed and your comfort hasn’t improved, your crawl space may be the cause. What Is Crawl Space Encapsulation? Crawl space encapsulation seals and insulates the entire area beneath your home. This multi-step process includes: Cleaning and clearing debris Sealing air leaks Installing a heavy-duty vapor barrier across the floor and walls Adding insulation to meet recommended R-values Addressing drainage with sump pumps or French drains if needed Installing a dehumidifier to control humidity year-round By fully sealing the crawl space, you block moisture, pests, and outside air from entering. The result is a healthier, more efficient home. Why Charlotte Homes Need Crawl Space Encapsulation Charlotte's climate brings heat, humidity, and heavy rain—all things that can damage an unsealed crawl space. Over time, that moisture leads to mold, wood rot, and insulation failure. Encapsulating your crawl space protects against these risks and helps stabilize indoor comfort. If you live in Charlotte, Gastonia, Concord, Rock Hill, or surrounding areas, crawl space encapsulation is one of the smartest upgrades you can make. ### Does insulation help in the summer? When summer hits Charlotte, most homeowners go straight to the thermostat. But if your attic insulation isn’t doing its job, your AC will be fighting an uphill battle no matter how low you set the temperature. So does insulation help in the summer? The answer is yes—and not just a little. With the right approach, insulation can make your home feel cooler, reduce your energy use, and take pressure off your air conditioner. Let’s break down how insulation works in the heat and what parts of your home need the most attention. Why Insulation Matters for Summer Cooling Insulation doesn’t just keep warm air inside during winter. It works both ways. In summer, it helps trap your conditioned air indoors while keeping outdoor heat from sneaking in through the attic, walls, and crawl space. When insulation is paired with air sealing and radiant barriers, you create a full energy barrier that slows down heat transfer. That means your home stays cooler longer, and your AC doesn’t have to run as often. What a Well-Insulated Charlotte Home Needs Insulation alone won’t do the job if other pieces are missing. The most effective homes use a combination of: Air sealing to block small leaks that let hot air in Attic insulation to slow rising heat Wall insulation to keep out heat from direct sun Radiant barriers to reflect heat away from the roof Crawl space encapsulation to stop heat and humidity from below The best place to start is with a free energy analysis from Standard Insulating Company. Our team can pinpoint where your insulation is lacking and recommend the right upgrades. Why Old Insulation Doesn’t Work We see this in a lot of Charlotte-area homes: insulation that’s dirty, wet, or torn up from pest activity. That kind of insulation can’t do its job. The small air pockets that give insulation its effectiveness get flattened or filled with moisture and dust. Sometimes the issue is simple: your insulation is just too thin. Many older homes in our area still have attic insulation that doesn’t meet current standards. Others are missing insulation in crawl spaces or walls entirely. That’s why we often start with insulation removal before installing anything new. It gives us a clean, dry surface to work from—and gives your home the best chance at long-term comfort. Attic Insulation Is a Must for Summer Comfort In summer, attic temperatures in Charlotte can soar 50 to 60 degrees above your indoor set point. That heat pushes down through gaps and cracks in the ceiling and warms up the living space below. Before we add attic insulation, we always seal air leaks around light fixtures, ductwork, and attic hatches. Then we install fiberglass insulation at the recommended depth for our region. This keeps the upstairs cooler, reduces the load on your AC, and lowers your energy bills. Learn about attic insulation Reflect Summer Heat with Radiant Barriers Radiant heat is the kind you feel when you step out into the sun. It’s also what turns your attic into a furnace when the sun beats down on your roof. Radiant barrier insulation reflects that heat away instead of letting it soak into your home. We install radiant barriers along the underside of the roof, between rafters. When combined with attic insulation and air sealing, it creates a powerful shield against summer heat gain. Explore radiant barrier installation Get Comfortable and Save Money Upgrading your insulation can do more than keep you cool. You may also qualify for insulation rebates and financing options. Our team can walk you through what's available and help you make improvements that fit your home and budget. Standard Insulating Company has served Charlotte-area homeowners for decades. If your house is hot in the summer and your AC never seems to catch up, we can help you find the right fix. Free Energy Analysis for a Smarter Home Unlock an energy efficient home with a FREE energy analysis. We listen to your concerns, audit your home’s efficiency with advanced tools and share a report with actionable solutions for cost savings and rebates you qualify for. This free service provides clear insights without any commitment. Schedule Today   ### Debunking the Myth: Will Insulation Make Your Home Hotter in the Summer? What Charlotte Homeowners Need to Know If your home feels hot upstairs in the summer, it’s easy to blame insulation. We hear it all the time from Charlotte homeowners: “I’m worried if I add more insulation, my house will get even hotter.” It’s a common concern—but it’s wrong. The truth is, insulation helps keep your home cooler in the summer, not hotter. If your insulation is old, missing, or installed poorly, it’s not doing its job. That can lead to stuffy rooms, rising energy bills, and AC systems that never stop running. Here’s what you need to know about how insulation works in the summer—and why it’s one of the smartest upgrades for staying cool when the heat kicks in. How Insulation Works in Summer Insulation slows down the movement of heat. In the summer, it keeps hot air out and cool air in. In the winter, it does the opposite—keeping the heat inside where it belongs. That’s why insulation is important year-round. When installed correctly, insulation creates a thermal barrier between your living space and the outside. That barrier helps prevent the 120-degree attic air from leaking into your bedrooms or upstairs hallway. It also reduces how hard your AC needs to work to keep your home comfortable. Insulation doesn’t generate heat. It just controls how quickly heat moves through your walls, ceiling, and floors. If your home still feels hot after adding insulation, it’s usually because other issues were overlooked—like air leaks, radiant heat, or moisture problems. Key Summer Insulation Strategies If your goal is better comfort and lower cooling bills, don’t just pile more insulation on top of what you have. Instead, take a whole-home approach. Here’s what that usually includes: 1. Air Sealing Before insulation can work properly, the gaps and cracks in your attic, crawl space, and walls need to be sealed. Without air sealing, cool air leaks out and hot air leaks in—even if your insulation is deep. 2. Attic Insulation Attics in the Charlotte area can easily hit 130 degrees in July. Without proper attic insulation, that heat radiates into your home. Standard Insulating Company installs fiberglass attic insulation at the right depth for our climate zone, based on your home’s unique layout. 3. Radiant Barrier A radiant barrier reflects the sun’s heat away from your attic instead of absorbing it. It’s especially useful in North Carolina, where we get strong sun and hot roofs. Radiant barriers work best when combined with attic insulation and air sealing. 4. Wall Insulation Insulation in exterior walls helps block heat transfer through the siding and keeps indoor temperatures stable. This is critical in older homes with little to no insulation in the walls. 5. Crawl Space Encapsulation The crawl space may not be where the heat is coming from, but if it’s humid and unsealed, it can throw off the balance of your whole home. Encapsulating your crawl space helps keep air inside your home cleaner and drier, which supports overall comfort and energy savings. Signs Your Insulation Might Be the Problem Rooms that are too hot in the summer or too cold in the winter A second floor that’s noticeably warmer than the first High energy bills, especially during peak cooling months AC that runs constantly or never seems to cool the home evenly Visible signs of moisture or mold in the attic or crawl space Other Summer Benefits of Good Insulation Lower humidity levels that reduce mold growth Cleaner indoor air thanks to fewer outside pollutants Quieter living spaces by blocking sound from outdoors Reduced strain on your HVAC system, helping it last longer Insulation Doesn’t Trap Heat—It Controls It Insulation doesn’t act like a blanket that holds heat in during the summer. That’s the myth. What it actually does is regulate the flow of heat. If your home feels hotter after an insulation upgrade, there’s a good chance it wasn’t done right—or something else was missed. A proper insulation upgrade starts with a whole-home energy analysis. Standard Insulating Company offers a free energy analysis for Charlotte-area homeowners. We’ll evaluate your insulation levels, air sealing needs, and moisture control issues, then recommend a plan that works. Get Insulation Help from Charlotte’s Trusted Experts Standard Insulating Company has been working in attics, crawl spaces, and hot North Carolina homes for decades. We know what works and what doesn’t. If you’re still asking, “Does insulation make my house hotter in summer?”—it’s time to get real answers. We’ll help you stop the guesswork and start feeling the difference. Ask us about available rebates through Duke Energy and financing options to make your upgrades more affordable. Free Energy Analysis for a Smarter Home Unlock an energy efficient home with a FREE energy analysis. We listen to your concerns, audit your home’s efficiency with advanced tools and share a report with actionable solutions for cost savings and rebates you qualify for. This free service provides clear insights without any commitment. Schedule Today ### The Pros and Cons of Insulation Between Floors: What Charlotte Homeowners Should Know Have you noticed cold floors in the winter, or certain rooms that stay hotter or noisier than the rest of your home? If so, you might be thinking about adding insulation between the floors. A lot of homeowners around Charlotte ask me about this, especially if they have bonus rooms over garages, finished basements, or older crawl spaces. Like any home upgrade, insulating between floors comes with both pros and cons. Sometimes it makes a real difference. Other times, it may not be the best place to start. Here is what I tell homeowners when they ask about the pros and cons of insulation between floors, and how to decide if it makes sense for their house. Why Floor Insulation Matters in Charlotte Homes Most people think about attic insulation first. That is definitely important. But floor insulation can also make a noticeable difference, especially in the Charlotte area where we deal with hot, humid summers and cooler winters. When installed the right way, insulation between floors can help with heat loss in the winter, block summer heat from entering living spaces, reduce drafts, help with sound transfer between levels, and slow moisture movement from crawl spaces or basements. When It Makes Sense to Insulate Between Floors Not every floor in your home needs insulation. In fact, attic and wall insulation usually provide more savings and comfort improvements. But there are situations where floor insulation is a smart choice. Good examples include: Floors above vented crawl spaces, which are common in older Charlotte homes Rooms built over unconditioned garages Finished basements where temperature or noise is a problem Bonus rooms or additions that feel drafty or uneven Homes with sound transfer between upstairs and downstairs If you have unconditioned space under the floor, or if noise is a concern, floor insulation is worth looking into. The Pros of Floor Insulation Warmer Floors in Winter Cold floors are one of the biggest complaints I hear from homeowners. Insulation under the floor can block that cold air, especially if there is a crawl space or garage underneath. More Even Temperatures It is common for some rooms to stay hotter in the summer or colder in the winter. Floor insulation can help balance out those temperature swings from one floor to another. Lower Energy Bills When conditioned air is not leaking through the floor, your heating and cooling system does not have to run as long. That can lead to lower energy use and reduced utility bills over time. Fewer Drafts Air can move through gaps in floors, especially in older homes. Adding insulation helps block these drafts, making rooms feel more comfortable throughout the year. Quieter Living Spaces Insulation can reduce some noise transfer between floors. It will not eliminate all sound, but it can help muffle voices, music, and foot traffic from one level to the next. The Cons of Floor Insulation Access Challenges If you have exposed joists in a crawl space or unfinished basement, installing floor insulation is fairly simple. But when both sides of the floor are finished, getting insulation in place usually requires opening up ceilings or floors, which adds time and cost. Moisture Risks In humid areas like crawl spaces, insulation can trap moisture if it is not installed properly. Wet insulation can lose its effectiveness, attract pests, and cause mold or rot. That is why sealing and vapor control are critical. It Might Not Be the First Priority In many homes, the attic and walls are the biggest sources of energy loss. If those areas need improvement, they should come first. Floor insulation can help, but it is not always the top priority for saving energy or improving comfort. What About Soundproofing A common question homeowners ask is whether insulating between floors will make their home quieter. The short answer is that it helps, but it will not block all noise. Fiberglass insulation works well for airborne sounds like talking or television noise. It does not do as much for impact noise, such as footsteps or dropped objects. If soundproofing is your main goal, you may need to combine insulation with other materials, like soundproof drywall or acoustic barriers. Best Types of Insulation for Between Floors The best type of insulation depends on your goals, the space you are working with, and whether the area is open or finished. Fiberglass Batts Fiberglass batts are a common choice when joists are exposed, such as in crawl spaces or garage ceilings. They are affordable and help with both temperature control and sound reduction. Blown-In Insulation Blown-in insulation is a good option for finished spaces where you cannot reach the joists directly. It fills gaps well but requires special equipment for installation. Spray Foam Spray foam seals air leaks and insulates at the same time. It also helps control moisture, which is especially useful in crawl spaces. It does cost more, but it provides excellent long-term performance. In most Charlotte homes, I often recommend fiberglass batts or closed-cell spray foam for crawl spaces or garage ceilings, depending on the specific conditions. Is Floor Insulation a DIY Job If you have exposed joists and some experience working in crawl spaces, it is possible to install fiberglass batts yourself. You will need to fit them snugly without gaps, support them properly, and watch for moisture or wiring issues. If the job involves finished ceilings, dense-pack insulation, or spray foam, it is best to hire a professional. These jobs require more expertise to avoid problems like trapped moisture or poor coverage. Does Floor Insulation Do More Harm Than Good When floor insulation is installed the right way, it does not cause harm. The problems come when insulation is added without addressing air sealing, ventilation, or moisture control. In Charlotte, I often see older homes where someone added insulation in a crawl space but did not install a vapor barrier underneath. Over time, that insulation got wet and sagged, which ended up making the floors colder instead of warmer. This is why it is so important to look at the entire system. Moisture issues and air leaks need to be addressed along with the insulation. Final Take, Is It Worth It for Your Home Insulating between floors can improve comfort, reduce noise, and help with energy efficiency, but it needs to be done in the right places and in the right way. If you have: Cold floors above a crawl space Bonus rooms or garage rooms that stay too hot or cold A finished basement with sound issues Drafts or uneven temperatures between levels Floor insulation may be part of the solution. That said, many homes will see bigger benefits from attic or wall upgrades first. The smartest approach is to look at the whole picture and tackle the areas where you will get the most improvement. If you are not sure what makes sense for your house, give us a call. At Standard Insulating Company, we have been working in Charlotte attics, crawl spaces, and garage ceilings for decades. We will take a look, tell you what we find, and help you plan the right next step. ### R-Value Insulation Guide: What Every Charlotte Homeowner Should Know Understanding R-value is one of the most important steps homeowners can take when deciding how to insulate a house. Whether you’re building new, renovating, or fixing drafty rooms in an older home, R-value allows you to measure insulation performance and compare different materials. But not all homes—or climates—are the same. What works in a cold, dry region might not be right for Charlotte. This guide covers everything local homeowners need to know, including how R-value works, what insulation types deliver the best performance here in the Carolinas, how code affects your choices, and when to bring in a professional. What Is R-Value in Insulation? R-value is a number that describes how well a material resists the flow of heat. The higher the number, the better it performs as insulation. It's not a brand or a product—it's a measurement used across all insulation types to help you compare options. R-value is calculated based on the type of material, its thickness, and its ability to trap air. Because air is a poor conductor of heat, insulation works by holding still air in place. The more resistance it provides, the more it slows down heat transfer into or out of your home. Insulation is only as good as its installation. Gaps, compression, moisture, and missing coverage all reduce R-value, regardless of the label. What R-Value Actually Tells You How much heat can your insulation block What kind of thickness is needed to reach code or target performance Whether an insulation upgrade will help with comfort or energy bills Important: R-value adds up when you layer materials. So an attic with R-19 batts and another R-19 blown on top equals R-38—if installed properly. The Benefits of Getting the Right R-Value Adding insulation—or improving what’s already there—can reduce energy use and improve comfort across the board. But it only works when the R-value matches your home’s layout, usage, and climate. Here’s why it matters for Charlotte homeowners: Lower energy costs: Insulation helps keep your heated or cooled air where it belongs. When it’s installed at the correct depth and sealed properly, it reduces the load on your HVAC system. Comfort year-round: Homes with proper R-value have more stable temperatures between rooms and floors. No more freezing bedrooms and overheated upstairs. Fewer drafts and hot spots: Correct insulation reduces temperature swings near exterior walls, ceilings, and floors. Better air quality: A sealed and insulated envelope keeps out pollen, dust, and outside humidity, which helps maintain indoor air quality. Learn more about the savings potential of insulation in this U.S. Department of Energy guide. Why R-Value Matters in the Carolinas The Charlotte region falls into Climate Zone 3A—a warm, humid zone that requires a balanced approach to insulation. Unlike colder climates, homes here must address both heat gain in summer and moderate heat loss in winter. That means insulation must do more than just block the cold. It must handle humidity, resist moisture, and work together with ventilation and air sealing. In this climate: Attic temperatures can hit 140°F in summer Air-conditioned air is often lost through poorly sealed attic floors Insulation must help prevent condensation buildup and mold That’s why code requirements in the Carolinas target R-38 for attics and R-19 for floors over unconditioned space. These numbers aren’t just guidelines—they’re based on energy modeling and building performance testing. Types of Insulation and Their R-Values R-value depends on the material and how thick it’s installed. Here’s how Charlotte-area insulation types compare, based on verified building science data and Department of Energy guidelines: Fiberglass Blown-In: R-2.2 to R-2.7 per inch. Common for attic retrofits and top-offs. Fiberglass Batts: R-3.1 to R-3.7 per inch. Widely used in walls and floor joist cavities. Cellulose: R-3.2 to R-3.8 per inch. Dense-packed or blown-in; settles slightly over time. Closed-Cell Spray Foam: R-6.0 to R-6.5 per inch. Adds structure, air seals, and blocks moisture vapor. Best for crawl spaces, rim joists, and attics. Open-Cell Spray Foam: R-3.6 to R-3.8 per inch. Air seals well but is vapor permeable. Good for walls or roof decks in mild moisture areas. Rigid Foam Board: R-4.5 to R-6.5 per inch. Used on foundation walls and cathedral ceilings. Mineral Wool: R-3.0 to R-3.3 per inch. Great for fire-resistance and soundproofing inside walls and between floors. Each has trade-offs. For example, fiberglass blown-in is easier and faster to install in most attic retrofits, while closed-cell foam works better for rim joists and conditioned attic rooflines. How to Calculate the R-Value You Need To find out how much insulation you need in a specific part of your home, you’ll want to calculate it based on your climate zone and the type of insulation you're using. Here's a basic step-by-step: Start with your target R-value (for Charlotte attics, that’s R-38) Divide that by the R-value per inch of the insulation you plan to use The result is the minimum thickness in inches you need to install Example: R-38 ÷ 3.5 (fiberglass blown-in) = about 11 inches of insulation If you're adding new insulation on top of old, you can combine R-values—assuming the original insulation is still dry and in good condition. But if it's flattened, damp, or incomplete, it's better to remove and replace it. How R-Value Changes Over Time Insulation performance can drop over time. This happens gradually and can go unnoticed until utility bills spike or rooms start to feel drafty. Common reasons include: Settling: Fiberglass settles less than cellulose, but both can compact and shift, especially if disturbed or if the original install was too light. Over time, that leaves thinner areas and less overall resistance. Compression: Storing boxes or walking in the attic can crush insulation, reducing the air pockets it depends on to block heat flow. Moisture exposure: Water leaks, condensation, or high humidity can flatten and degrade insulation, especially fiberglass and cellulose. Signs of insulation problems include uneven temperatures between rooms, cold floors in winter, or insulation that looks matted, darkened, or out of place. For more on moisture impact, see this NREL study on insulation performance. R-Value Requirements by Code and Climate Zone for the Carolinas Building codes in North and South Carolina follow different energy efficiency standards, even though both fall into IECC Climate Zone 3A. Here’s how that breaks down: North Carolina (2018 Energy Code – Based on 2015 IECC) Attic insulation: R-38 (or R-30 if it fills the cavity at full height) Wood-framed walls: R-20 or R-13 cavity plus R-5 continuous Floors over unconditioned space: R-19 Crawl space walls must meet R-10 continuous or R-15 cavity Basement walls: R-10 continuous or R-13 cavity South Carolina (2009 IECC) Attic insulation: R-30 Wood-framed walls: R-13 Floors: R-13 Crawl space walls: R-5 continuous Basement walls: R-5 (or exempt in some homes) While South Carolina's code allows lower R-values, many homeowners go beyond the minimum for better comfort and long-term savings, especially with rising summer cooling demand. If you’re in North Carolina, your attic insulation must meet R-38 unless your home qualifies for the reduced cavity requirement. That generally means full-depth coverage all the way to the eaves. You can find the full code on the NC Building Code portal for details. Cost of Insulation Based on R-Value The cost of insulation depends on several things: the type of material, how thick it needs to be to reach the desired R-value, whether it’s a retrofit or new install, and whether you're hiring a professional or doing it yourself. Here’s how it usually compares: Fiberglass: Typically the most affordable per inch. Works well for attics, walls, and floors. Labor costs are moderate if done professionally. Cellulose: Slightly more than fiberglass. Better at filling gaps, but may settle over time. Often used in older homes or wall retrofits. Spray Foam: Higher material and install cost, but provides air sealing and moisture control in one application. Closed-cell offers the best R-value per inch. Rigid Foam Board: Mid-range pricing. Best for continuous exterior applications, crawl space walls, or foundation insulation. Labor, equipment, and access also affect pricing. For example, a low-clearance crawl space takes more time and effort to insulate properly than an open attic. If you're focused on ROI, remember that proper R-value reduces strain on your HVAC system and helps avoid other costly problems like moisture damage, mold, and temperature complaints. DIY vs. Professional Insulation Installation Some insulation projects are DIY-friendly, while others call for licensed professionals. Here’s how they compare: DIY Projects Best for: Adding fiberglass batts to open wall cavities, topping off attic insulation with blown-in Pros: Lower cost, immediate scheduling, no labor markup Cons: Risk of poor coverage, uneven depth, or safety issues with wires, mold, or poor ventilation Professional Install Best for: Spray foam, rigid foam board, tight attic or crawl spaces, or meeting strict R-value codes Pros: Faster, cleaner, guaranteed R-value coverage, often includes blower door test or inspection Cons: Higher up-front cost, must schedule around crew availability Professionals also understand local code and vapor barrier rules. They can help avoid common mistakes like blocking soffit vents or underinsulating around ducts and recessed lights. Finding and Hiring Insulation Professionals If you’re not sure how your insulation stacks up—or you just want it done right the first time—a licensed insulation contractor can help assess your home and recommend improvements based on R-value, code, and performance. Look for a company that: Has experience in North and South Carolina code zones Understands how air sealing, moisture control, and insulation work together Uses full-time trained crews Offers detailed quotes and explanations (not just square foot pricing) Standard Insulating Company has been serving Charlotte and surrounding communities for over 80 years. We're local experts in attic insulation, crawl space solutions, and full building envelope performance—using materials that meet or exceed code while keeping comfort and energy savings front and center. FAQ: R-Value and Insulation Questions What R-value do I need in my attic? In Charlotte, R-38 is required by code. In South Carolina, R-30 is the minimum. You can exceed code for better performance, especially if your attic gets extremely hot in summer. Is a higher R-value always better? Only to a point. After meeting code or comfort needs, adding more insulation may offer smaller returns. The key is balance: insulation plus sealing and ventilation. Does R-value change if insulation gets wet? Yes. Water reduces insulation’s ability to trap air. Wet insulation should be removed and replaced, especially fiberglass and cellulose. Closed-cell foam resists moisture better. Is spray foam worth the higher R-value per inch? It depends on where it’s installed. In tight spaces like rim joists or vaulted rooflines, it’s often the best option. But it costs more and should always be installed by a professional. Conclusion and Next Steps R-value isn’t just a number on a product label—it’s the backbone of how well your home stays comfortable and efficient. Whether you’re sealing up an old attic, upgrading crawl space insulation, or building a new home, getting the R-value right is one of the smartest upgrades you can make. If you’re in the Charlotte region or anywhere in the Carolinas and want help figuring out what your home needs, we’re here to help. Get in touch to schedule a no-pressure insulation checkup or quote from our local team. ### How Can I Tell If I Have Enough Insulation? A Room-by-Room Guide for Charlotte Homeowners Insulation plays a major role in how comfortable your home feels and how much you pay to heat or cool it. But it’s not always obvious when something’s wrong. If you’re asking yourself, "How can I tell I have enough insulation?" You’re not alone. It’s a common question—and not always easy to answer. Insulation is mostly out of sight. It’s packed behind walls, under floors, and up in the attic. While some signs are easy to spot, others are more subtle or require tools the average homeowner doesn’t have. This guide walks through the four main areas where insulation matters most: the attic, walls, floors, and crawl space. We’ll cover what signs to look for, what you can realistically check yourself, and what limitations you might face with a DIY approach. Why Insulation Problems Are Hard to Spot Before getting into specific areas of your home, it’s important to understand one thing. Most insulation problems don’t show themselves in obvious ways. Unless you’re dealing with soaked fiberglass or a massive air leak, the clues tend to build up slowly: Your home doesn't retain heat in the winter. Your upstairs always feels too hot in the summer. Your utility bills increase every year. Certain rooms consistently feel uncomfortable. Even if you’re good at home maintenance, insulation can be tricky. You can’t easily see inside walls or under floors; even attics can be hard to access or safely navigate without the right gear. Still, there are some practical checks you can do on your own. Let’s take a closer look, starting from the top. Attic Insulation: The First Place to Check The attic is usually the easiest place to inspect if accessible. If you can safely enter your attic and see the insulation on the floor, you’ve already got a head start. What to look for when inspecting Attic Insulation: Settled or compressed insulation: Over time, insulation flattens. If you can see joists, there probably isn’t enough. Gaps and bare spots: These reduce coverage and let heat escape. Signs of moisture or pests: Wet insulation loses its R-value. Animal waste is another red flag. Dusty or gray insulation: This may mean the insulation is old and has been exposed to air movement, reducing its effectiveness. What You Can Try: You can sometimes check behind outlets or remove small trim pieces to get a glimpse into the wall cavity. Just be cautious, and know that this won’t give you the full picture. What You Might Miss: Even with access, you won’t know the R-value without measuring depth and material type. You also can’t test air leakage or ventilation balance without tools like a blower door or an infrared camera. Wall Insulation: The Most Inaccessible Area Wall insulation is important for year-round comfort, but it’s nearly impossible to inspect without cutting into drywall or using thermal imaging. What to look for when inspecting your Wall Insulation: Exterior walls feel cold in winter or warm in summer Drafts near electrical outlets or windows Sound travels easily between rooms or from outside What You Can Try: You can sometimes check behind outlets or remove small trim pieces to get a glimpse into the wall cavity. Just be cautious, and know that this won’t give you the full picture. What You Might Miss: Without a full scan, you won’t know if insulation is continuous, missing in spots, or installed incorrectly. Gaps in wall insulation are common in older homes. Floor Insulation: Often Forgotten, Often Missing If your home is built on a crawl space or pier foundation, you may have insulation under the floors — or you may not. What to look for when inspecting Floor Insulation: Cold floors in the morning or during winter Rooms above crawl spaces feel colder than others Noise transmission between floors Can You Check It Yourself? Sometimes. If you can safely access the crawl space or basement, you might be able to look up and inspect the insulation. Look for sagging batts, gaps, or areas where insulation is completely missing. What Gets Missed: Moisture is a hidden problem. Although floor insulation may look fine, humidity can still compromise it. Vapor barriers and air sealing also affect performance, but they aren’t easy to evaluate without testing. Crawl Space Insulation: Often Overlooked, Always Important Many homes in Charlotte have vented crawl spaces. These areas are prone to moisture problems, and poorly installed or missing insulation can lead to serious comfort and air quality issues. What to look for when inspecting Crawl Space Insulation: Musty smells or moldy odors Uneven temperatures in rooms above Visible gaps in insulation under the floor above the crawl space Signs of pests or water stains If your crawl space is sealed and insulated, it should feel dry, clean, and free of strong smells. If it’s vented and unfinished, it’s more likely to have insulation issues that are hard to spot without experience. What DIY Can’t Cover: Encapsulation, humidity control, and air sealing all affect how well crawl space insulation performs. These are complex systems; even if the insulation looks fine, poor sealing can undo all the benefits. Other Clues to Watch For Beyond looking at specific areas, here are some broader signs that you may not have enough insulation, or that it’s no longer doing its job: Your HVAC system runs all day, but your home still feels uncomfortable You have hot and cold spots throughout the house Your energy bills are higher than neighbors with similar homes Rooms feel damp, humid, or overly dry depending on the season You feel air movement or drafts near baseboards or ceiling fixtures Can You Add Too Much Insulation? It’s a fair question. In general, more insulation improves performance, up to a point. However, once you hit the recommended R-value for your area, extra insulation won’t always improve results. In some cases, too much insulation without proper ventilation can lead to trapped moisture or indoor air problems. That's why balance matters. The key is not just adding more but ensuring the insulation works with air sealing and ventilation. Next steps for your insulation If you’ve gone through this checklist and found a few red flags, you’re already ahead of the game. You don’t need professional tools to recognize when something feels off. But it’s also okay to admit when a space is too hard to inspect or when a visual check doesn’t tell the full story. A full home energy evaluation is the next step for many Charlotte homeowners. But if you're still gathering information and considering options, understanding how insulation works throughout your home is a solid starting point. ### A Homeowner’s Guide to Floor Insulation in Crawl Spaces and Between Floors If your floors are cold in the winter or your upstairs rooms seem louder than they should be, floor insulation might be part of the solution. It’s one of the most overlooked parts of home efficiency, but when it’s done right, it can make a noticeable difference in how your house feels — and how much it costs to keep it comfortable. This guide breaks down everything you need to know about floor insulation installation. You’ll learn what it is, how it works, the different types available, what it costs, and how to decide whether to tackle it yourself or hire a professional. Whether you're insulating a crawl space, a basement ceiling, or the area between upper floors, this guide is built to help you make smart, informed decisions for your home. Why Insulate Your Floors? Insulating your floors helps create a thermal boundary between conditioned and unconditioned areas of your home. For most Charlotte-area homes, the biggest benefits come from adding insulation to: Floors above vented crawl spaces Rooms located over unconditioned basements or garages Gaps between floors in multi-story homes where sound or comfort is an issue What You Can Expect from Floor Insulation: Lower energy bills: Heat loss through uninsulated floors can account for up to 10–20% of heating costs in older homes. More stable indoor temperatures: Floors stay warmer in winter and cooler in summer. Less noise between floors: Fiberglass and cellulose insulation can help absorb sound. Improved indoor air quality: Properly sealed floors keep out moisture and outdoor pollutants. Better performance from your HVAC system: When heat isn’t escaping through the floor, your system doesn’t have to work as hard. If you’ve noticed cold floors, drafts, or uneven temperatures between levels, insulating floors can help solve those problems without major renovations. Types of Floor Insulation Choosing the right material depends on the type of floor you’re insulating, your budget, and whether the area is open or finished. Here’s a breakdown of the most common types of floor insulation and where each works best. Fiberglass Batts Fiberglass batts are one of the most widely used types of floor insulation. They’re typically installed between open joists in unfinished basements or crawl spaces. The Pros of Fiberglass Batts: Affordable and easy to find Good thermal resistance (R-value) Helps with both temperature and sound The Cons of Fiberglass Batts: Can sag over time if not secured properly Not ideal in damp spaces unless used with a vapor barrier Blown-In Fiberglass Blown-in fiberglass is a loose-fill insulation made from fine glass fibers. It’s often used in enclosed or hard-to-reach areas, like floor cavities between finished levels or tight spaces where batts won’t fit. The Pros of Blown-In Fiberglass: Fills irregular spaces and tight corners Can be dense-packed to reduce settling Handles moisture better than cellulose The Cons of Blown-In Fiberglass: Needs special equipment to install Harder to inspect once installed Can lose effectiveness if not packed tightly enough Blown-in fiberglass works well when the floor framing is covered or when access is limited. It’s a good option for retrofitting insulation between stories without tearing into ceilings or floors. Blown-In Cellulose Blown-in cellulose is made from recycled paper and is treated with fire retardants. It’s often used for retrofitting insulation into enclosed floor cavities or hard-to-reach areas. The Pros of Blown-In Cellulose Fills gaps and voids well Good for irregular framing or tight spaces Better sound absorption than fiberglass The Cons of Blown-In Cellulose Needs specialized equipment to install It can settle over time if not densely packed Spray Foam Spray foam insulation offers both high R-value and air sealing in one application. It’s especially useful in crawl spaces, rim joists, or when sealing ductwork that runs between floors. The Pros of Spray Foam: Seals air leaks and insulates at the same time Won’t sag or shift over time Excellent moisture resistance The Cons of Spray Foam: More expensive than fiberglass or cellulose Requires professional installation in most cases Rigid Foam Board Rigid foam is often used to insulate concrete floors or the underside of subfloors in basements and crawl spaces. The Pros of Rigid Foam Boards: High R-value per inch Moisture-resistant Works well with radiant floor heating systems The Cons of Rigid Foam Boards: Not flexible — needs to be cut to fit Installation can be time-consuming Choosing the best insulation for floor joists depends on the layout of your home, how accessible the framing is, and what kind of performance you want from the system. How to Install Floor Insulation (Step-by-Step DIY Guide) Installing floor insulation can be straightforward if you have access to the framing and you're working in a dry, open space. Most DIY-friendly jobs involve floor joists in basements, crawl spaces, or garages. Insulating over concrete or under finished floors is harder to do without help. Before you start, consider the kind of floor you’re working with. This will determine what materials and tools you’ll need. Tools and Materials Tape measure Utility knife or handsaw Stapler or insulation hangers (for joists) Vapor barrier (if insulating over damp areas) Gloves, long sleeves, eye protection, and a mask Step 1: Inspect the Area Look under the floor you’re planning to insulate. In most homes, that means a crawl space or an unfinished basement ceiling. What you want to see is exposed framing and dry surfaces. If the joists are hidden behind drywall or paneling, the job becomes harder and may need to be done from above. Watch for moisture. If the floor above shows signs of staining or if you see mold on the joists, stop and figure out the source. Insulation doesn’t fix moisture problems—it can trap them. While you’re down there, check the outer edges of the floor if there’s air moving around the rim joists or around pipes, that needs to be sealed before you insulate. It’s easier to do this first than try to patch it later. Step 2: Cut the Insulation to Fit Once the space is ready, cut your insulation to match the framing. For floor joists, fiberglass batts are sized to fit most cavities, but they still need trimming to sit cleanly. Use a sharp utility knife and a straight edge. For rigid foam, you’ll get cleaner cuts with a fine-tooth saw. You want each piece to sit flush inside the cavity. If it’s too loose, air moves right past it. If it’s stuffed in too tightly, it won’t insulate well. The goal is full coverage with no gaps, compression, or bulges. Step 3: Install the Insulation Set the insulation into each joist bay so it fills the space without bunching or bending. Each piece should reach from one joist to the other and rest lightly against the subfloor above. If the insulation is too wide, cut it to fit. If it leaves gaps along the sides, it won’t stop air or heat from moving through. Use wire stays or friction supports to hold the batts in place. For faced insulation with stapling flanges, secure it to the inside edges of the joists — not the bottom edge — so the insulation stays in contact with the floor above. If you’re working with rigid foam, cut each panel to size and press it tight against the underside of the subfloor. Secure it with adhesive or screws. Seal the joints between panels with spray foam or tape designed for foam board. Gaps in foam board can leak just like framing gaps, so sealing the seams matters. Step 4: Seal Gaps and Openings Look around the edges of the floor and at any holes cut through the framing. These are the spots where outside air gets in and undermines the insulation. Seal the rim joists, pipe cutouts, and wiring holes using spray foam for wide openings or caulk for narrow seams. If insulation is already in place, pull it back enough to reach the gap. Once the sealant dries, reset the insulation so it covers the area completely. Stopping air leaks at these points makes the insulation more effective and keeps moisture from building up in the floor structure over time. Comparing the Cost of Floor Insulation Options Insulating your floors doesn’t cost the same across every setup. The type of insulation, how accessible the framing is, and whether you're hiring a professional or doing it yourself all affect the final cost. You won’t find a one-size-fits-all number, but there are clear patterns. Here’s how the different types of floor insulation compare when it comes to cost, labor, and complexity. Fiberglass Batts Fiberglass batts are usually the least expensive material option, especially when the joists are open and easy to reach. They’re simple to install, and most homeowners can handle the job without much specialized equipment. That lower material cost comes with a tradeoff: you’ll need to secure them properly and make sure they’re cut to fit. Performance drops fast if they sag or pull away from the framing over time. Cost profile: Low material cost, moderate labor effort Best for: DIY installs in open crawl spaces or basements Blown-In Fiberglass Blown-in fiberglass falls somewhere in the middle. The insulation itself is affordable, but the job requires a blower machine and a helper. It also takes more prep if the floor cavities are enclosed. Dense-packing the material between finished floors is a job best left to pros. It’s not the most expensive option overall, but it often ends up costing more than batts, especially once labor and equipment are factored in. Cost profile: Mid-range materials, higher labor, or equipment needs Best for: Enclosed floor cavities or areas with odd framing Rigid Foam Boards Rigid foam tends to cost more per square foot than batts or blown-in material, but you use less of it for the same R-value. Installation is slower, especially if the floor has a lot of cuts or penetrations. Labor is straightforward but more hands-on — panels need to be cut precisely, fit cleanly, and sealed at every seam. For floors over concrete or garages, it’s often the best-performing option. Cost profile: Higher material cost, slower install Best for: Basement ceilings, garage ceilings, or concrete floors Spray Foam Spray foam is usually at the top of the price range. It insulates and seals in one step, but the installation requires professional equipment and training. In most cases, it’s not something you can do without a crew. You’re paying more but also getting air sealing, moisture resistance, and long-term performance that holds up over time. It’s not overkill for all homes, but it’s not the right fit for every budget. Cost profile: Highest upfront cost, lowest air leakage Best for: Crawl spaces with high moisture, tight or irregular framing, or areas where sealing is a priority Hiring a Floor Insulation Contractor Some floor insulation jobs are simple enough to do on your own. If the framing is exposed and the space is clean and dry, you can likely handle fiberglass batts with a utility knife and a few supports. But once things get more complicated — tight crawl spaces, finished ceilings, older homes — it becomes harder to get right without help. When It Makes Sense to Hire a Pro Here are a few common situations where bringing in a professional is the better move: You can’t see or reach the framing. If you’re insulating between floors and the cavities are enclosed, you’ll need dense-pack insulation and access tools that most homeowners don’t have. Mechanical systems are in the way. Pipes, ducts, and wires running through the floor can’t be covered loosely. They need to be insulated around and sealed correctly to avoid gaps. The job calls for spray foam or blown-in material, requiring specific training and tools. DIY spray foam kits don’t perform the same way as professional applications, and blown-in systems need calibrated equipment to fill cavities correctly. There’s evidence of moisture, rodent activity, or past damage. A contractor will stop and address those problems instead of covering them up. That matters if you want the insulation to last and not cause bigger issues later. Professional Installers Bring More Than Labor Hiring a professional isn’t just about saving time; it also gives you access to better materials, longer warranties, and fewer chances for error. Warranties often don’t apply to DIY installs. Some manufacturers limit coverage unless the material is installed by a certified contractor. That includes both insulation and any sealing or barrier products used alongside it. Installers carry liability for performance. If the insulation fails because it wasn’t installed correctly, you’re not on the hook to fix it. That’s not true when you do it yourself. Professional equipment costs add up. Renting a blower machine, protective gear, sprayers, and proper tools for sealing and fastening often costs more than homeowners expect. In most cases, the total expense of doing it yourself comes close to — or exceeds — what you’d pay to have it done right the first time. The job gets done faster and with fewer gaps. A good crew can finish most floor insulation installs in a day, including sealing and cleanup. That means less disruption to your home and fewer chances for missed spots or wasted material. What to Look for in a Contractor Focus on companies that specialize in residential insulation, not just general contractors or energy auditors. The installer should know how floor systems perform in Charlotte homes, especially when dealing with crawl spaces and vented lower levels. Ask direct questions: Do you include air sealing and moisture protection? What materials do you recommend for this floor type? Have you worked on homes with similar layouts? Is your work covered by warranty? The answers should be specific, not vague or rehearsed. If the quote skips over prep work, sealing, or barrier installation, ask what else needs to be included — or keep looking. Frequently Asked Questions About Floor Insulation Can you install floor insulation yourself? Yes, in some cases. If the floor framing is open and dry, like in a basement or crawl space, you can install fiberglass batts using simple tools and mechanical supports. But it's better to bring in a professional if you’re dealing with a finished ceiling, tight access, or insulation types like spray foam or blown-in fiberglass. Those jobs' equipment, sealing work, and safety measures are harder to manage without experience. Should I remove old insulation before adding new? Only if the existing insulation is damaged, wet, or covered in debris. If it’s clean and dry, you can often add new material on top, as long as you don’t compress it or block ventilation. In crawl spaces, older insulation that’s sagging or falling out should be removed and replaced — it’s no longer doing its job. How do I insulate a crawl space floor? That depends on whether the crawl space is vented or sealed. In vented crawl spaces, fiberglass batts are usually installed between the joists, with a vapor barrier on the ground to reduce moisture. In sealed crawl spaces, insulation often goes on the walls instead of the floor. Spray foam or rigid foam board can be used to insulate and seal the perimeter while keeping the floor open and dry. What type of insulation is best between floors? Fiberglass batts are the most common option if the framing is open. They’re affordable and help with both temperature control and sound. For enclosed floor systems — like between the first and second floor — blown-in fiberglass is a better choice. Spray foam may be used in some cases where sealing and insulation are both needed, but it’s typically overkill for interior floors. Does floor insulation help with soundproofing? It helps, but it’s not a complete soundproofing solution. Fiberglass and cellulose insulation absorb airborne sound, like voices or TV noise. But they don’t stop impact noise, like footsteps or dropped objects, very well. If sound control is a priority, consider combining insulation with underlayment, acoustic sealants, or resilient channel systems. ### The Ultimate Guide to Crawl Space Encapsulation What Is Crawl Space Encapsulation, and Why Does It Matter If you’ve ever walked into your home after a rainy week and noticed a musty smell, or if your floors feel cold in winter and your utility bills keep creeping up, your crawl space might be the culprit. In Charlotte’s humid climate, crawl spaces collect moisture quickly. That damp air sticks around, and over time, it can lead to mold, structural damage, poor indoor air quality, and higher energy costs. That’s where crawl space encapsulation comes in. Encapsulation means sealing off your crawl space to create a clean, dry, controlled environment. It typically involves: Installing a thick vapor barrier across the ground and walls Sealing off vents and exterior gaps Adding crawl space insulation Using a dehumidifier to keep moisture levels in check Encapsulation is not just about covering dirt with plastic. Done right, it transforms a damp, neglected part of your house into a stable, energy-efficient foundation that supports your whole home. What You’ll Learn in This Guide This post gives you the full picture on crawl space encapsulation: What it is and how it works Benefits and tradeoffs you actually need to weigh Real-world cost considerations for DIY and professional installs Whether it’s worth it for your Charlotte home Local codes, best practices, and common mistakes Tips for choosing a contractor or tackling it yourself Whether you’re trying to understand a quote or just tired of dealing with musty air and cold floors, you’ll get practical answers here without the sales pitch. Why Encapsulate Your Crawl Space? Crawl spaces are easy to ignore. But if they’re unsealed, they can quietly undermine everything from your energy bills to your indoor air quality. Encapsulating a crawl space offers real, measurable benefits for homes in Charlotte and the surrounding areas that go far beyond cosmetics. 1. Prevents Moisture Buildup and Mold Charlotte summers are long and humid. That outdoor humidity doesn’t stay outside. It seeps in and condenses on cooler surfaces like pipes, framing, and insulation in a vented crawl space. Over time, this leads to: Mold and mildew Rotting wood and floor joists Wet insulation that no longer insulates Encapsulation stops that cycle. Sealing off vents, installing a vapor barrier, and managing humidity prevent moisture from building up and keep organic materials dry. 2. Improves Energy Efficiency Your crawl space is part of your home’s thermal envelope. If it’s unsealed, outside air flows in and indoor air leaks out. That makes your heating and cooling system work harder and your floors feel colder in winter. Encapsulation helps by reducing air leaks, stabilizing temperatures under your living space, and making insulation actually work the way it should. 3. Enhances Indoor Air Quality Most people are unaware that a substantial portion of the air inside their home can originate from the crawl space. That means anything down there, such as mold spores, dust, or pests, can get pulled straight into your living space. Encapsulation blocks those contaminants at the source and helps create a healthier home environment. 4. Deters Pests and Insects Crawl spaces are naturally attractive to pests. They're dark, quiet, and damp. Sealing the space helps eliminate those conditions and reduces insects' and rodent entry points. 5. Protects Structural Integrity Moisture is the biggest enemy of wood framing. Encapsulation helps protect the structure by keeping subfloor systems dry and reducing the risk of long-term damage from rot or corrosion. 6. Boosts Resale Value Encapsulation adds to your home’s performance story. It signals to buyers that moisture has been managed and energy performance has been improved, which often translates into increased buyer confidence and market appeal. Types of Crawl Space Encapsulation, What’s Included and How It Works Encapsulation isn’t just plastic on the ground. It’s a system of materials and techniques that work together to block moisture, control air movement, and improve insulation performance. Vapor Barrier A reinforced vapor barrier covers the ground and runs up the walls. It’s mechanically fastened, taped at all seams, and cut precisely to fit around piers and columns. This is your first layer of moisture protection. Crawl Space Insulation Rigid foam board or closed-cell spray foam is used to insulate the perimeter walls and rim joists. This method aligns with the North Carolina Energy Code, which allows R-10 continuous insulation as a prescriptive method in crawl spaces. Sealing Vents and Air Gaps Vents and penetrations are sealed to block unconditioned air from entering the space. This includes sealing around pipes, ducts, sill plates, and access hatches using caulk, foam, or rigid panels. Dehumidifier (When Needed) Many encapsulated crawl spaces in the Charlotte area benefit from a dedicated dehumidifier. This helps maintain moisture control through long humid seasons. According to the U.S. Department of Energy, keeping humidity below 60 percent is key to mold prevention and long-term performance. Drainage Solutions In some homes, drainage comes first. Standing water, poor grading, or a high water table will require a sump pump, French drain, or other water control methods before encapsulation can begin. How to Install Crawl Space Encapsulation (Step-by-Step DIY Guide) DIY encapsulation is possible under the right conditions. The space must be dry, accessible, and free of mold or structural damage. Here’s what the process typically involves: Step 1: Inspect and Prepare Remove debris, inspect insulation, measure for materials, and check for signs of past or current water issues. If standing water or mold is present, stop and address those first. Step 2: Seal Vents and Air Leaks To prevent uncontrolled air movement, block exterior vents, seal around all penetrations, and address rim joists with foam or caulk. Step 3: Install Vapor Barrier Use reinforced 12 to 20 mil plastic. Overlap seams, seal edges, fasten to walls, and fully cover the floor without gaps or punctures. Step 4: Add Insulation Install rigid foam board on crawl space walls. Use spray foam at rim joists and hard-to-reach areas. Avoid fiberglass batts unless the space is fully conditioned. Step 5: Add a Dehumidifier Use a crawl-specific unit sized to the square footage. Make sure it drains to a sump or outside the foundation and runs on a GFCI outlet. Step 6: Final Check Inspect all seams, tape, sealing, and insulation. Test the dehumidifier. Monitor humidity using a reliable hygrometer going forward. Professional Crawl Space Encapsulation: What It Looks Like and Why It Matters Hiring a professional insulation contractor to encapsulate your crawl space brings more than convenience. It brings precision, efficiency, and long-term results that are hard to match on your own. In Charlotte, where crawl space conditions can vary widely by neighborhood and lot, experience makes a difference. What Professional Encapsulation Includes A qualified crawl space contractor will start with a full inspection, not just of the crawl space but also how it connects to your HVAC system, ductwork, and indoor air. That assessment informs everything that follows. From there, the process typically includes: Removing old or damaged insulation and debris Installing a reinforced vapor barrier across the floor and up the walls Air sealing vents, plumbing penetrations, rim joists, and access hatches Adding rigid foam or spray foam insulation to meet code standards Installing a properly sized dehumidifier with a reliable drainage path Verifying the integrity of the system after installation with moisture and airflow checks Good crews work methodically and cleanly. In most homes, professional encapsulation takes one to two days, depending on the complexity. The work is done with industrial-grade tools and materials designed for long-term performance in humid, enclosed environments. Why It’s a Smart Choice Professionals bring more than speed. They know how to spot early signs of water intrusion, how to work around structural piers or tight crawl spaces, and how to install systems that meet North Carolina code and ventilation standards. In many cases, they also provide material and labor warranties that protect your investment over time. Encapsulation is part of a larger system. It ties into how your home handles air movement, moisture, temperature, and energy. Done right, it improves all of those things. Done poorly, it can trap moisture or fail to insulate. That’s why the right team matters. DIY vs. Professional Crawl Space Encapsulation: What’s the Better Fit? Deciding between DIY and professional encapsulation comes down to three things: the condition of your crawl space, the time and tools you have, and the results you want to achieve. Both approaches can work, but they’re not equal in risk or reliability. When DIY Might Be a Good Fit DIY makes sense for homeowners who: Have a dry, clean crawl space with no mold or water intrusion Are physically able to work in tight, hot, or dusty spaces Have experience with sealing, measuring, and careful material handling Understand the importance of continuous coverage, sealing, and drainage It can save on labor costs and gives you control over every step of the process. But it also requires careful planning, specialty tools, and a willingness to deal with uncomfortable working conditions. When to Go with a Professional Hiring a pro is usually the better option when: Your crawl space has standing water, visible mold, or pest activity There’s damaged insulation, signs of past structural issues, or sagging floors You want to make sure the space meets current code and ventilation standards You want a warranty or long-term performance guarantee Professionals can handle the entire process quickly and correctly. They also know how to build systems that will continue to perform after a decade of summer humidity and seasonal temperature shifts. The Bottom Line DIY can work when conditions are right and attention to detail is high. But for most Charlotte-area homes, especially those with older foundations or mixed construction, professional encapsulation delivers better long-term results with fewer headaches. It’s the difference between covering up a problem and solving it for good. Cost of Crawl Space Encapsulation Installation Encapsulation cost depends on your crawl space’s condition, size, and scope of work. A small, dry space may require only basic materials, while others may need drainage upgrades, insulation replacement, or humidity control systems. DIY projects save on labor, but most homeowners find that professional installs provide stronger performance and better long-term value. That includes diagnostic testing, durable materials, and warranties on labor and equipment. ENERGY STAR estimates that air sealing and insulation together can reduce heating and cooling costs by up to 20 percent. Incentives may be available through utility programs or tax credits. Ask your contractor about any active rebates or financing options. Finding and Hiring Crawl Space Encapsulation Installers Look for licensed, insured professionals who specialize in encapsulation, not just general waterproofing or pest control. Ask whether they handle their own installs, what materials they use, and how their work aligns with local energy code and climate needs. The right team will understand how insulation, sealing, and moisture control come together to support the whole home. Keep looking if they can’t explain why they’re doing each step. Conclusion and Next Steps Encapsulation transforms your crawl space from a problem area into a quiet strength of your home. It helps control moisture, reduce energy loss, improve air quality, and support long-term structural health. If you live in the Charlotte area, Standard Insulating Company can help. We offer real assessments, honest answers, and solutions that match your home’s needs. Whether you’re trying to solve a moisture issue, improve comfort, or prep for resale, crawl space encapsulation is one of the smartest upgrades you can make. Contact us today to schedule an inspection or learn more about what it would take to encapsulate your crawl space the right way. ### The Ultimate Guide to Attic Insulation: Benefits, Science, and How-To for Charlotte Homeowners Optimizing your home's energy efficiency can significantly reduce your energy bills and overall comfort as a homeowner in Charlotte, North Carolina. One crucial area that often gets overlooked in this pursuit is attic insulation. Proper attic insulation can transform your living space, saving you money, enhancing comfort, and even contributing to environmental sustainability. This ultimate guide will explore the benefits, science, and step-by-step instructions for insulating your attic. Why Attic Insulation Matters in Charlotte Attic insulation isn’t just about saving on energy bills. In a place like Charlotte, where summers get sticky and winters still bring the chill, your attic plays a huge role in how your home performs. Without the right insulation and sealing, you’ll deal with uneven temperatures, rising utility costs, and indoor air that feels stale or damp. Charlotte is in Climate Zone 3A, which is classified as warm and humid. That means insulation needs to handle both heat and moisture. Your attic is where all that hot air piles up in summer and where heat escapes in winter. Insulation keeps that heat where it belongs, out in July and in January. Benefits of Attic Insulation for Charlotte Homes Energy Efficiency: Proper insulation acts as a barrier to heat transfer, keeping your home warmer in the winter and cooler in the summer. This means your HVAC system doesn’t have to work as hard, resulting in lower energy bills, as the EPA estimates that homeowners can save an average of 15% on heating and cooling costs. Cost Savings: By reducing energy consumption, insulation pays for itself over time through decreased utility costs. The initial investment is often recouped in a few years. Increased Comfort: Insulation helps maintain a stable indoor temperature, reducing drafts and hot or cold spots in your home, thereby enhancing overall comfort. Environmental Impact: Lower energy consumption means a smaller carbon footprint, contributing to environmental conservation efforts. Increased Home Value: Energy efficiency is a highly sought-after feature for potential homebuyers, and having a well-insulated attic can boost your property’s market value. How Charlotte’s Humidity Impacts Your Insulation Strategy Charlotte’s climate brings year-round moisture. If insulation isn't installed correctly, that humidity can collect in your attic and lead to mold and damage. Choosing the right materials and pairing them with good ventilation and air sealing is key. Blown-in fiberglass works well in most local homes when kept dry and installed to full depth. Spray foam adds both insulation and moisture control. Cellulose can be used in closed cavities or tight spaces, but it must be installed with care to avoid settling or holding moisture. Heat Transfer 101 Heat moves in three ways, and insulation stops them all: Conduction: Heat passing through solids, like a hot roof warming your attic floor. Insulation’s air pockets (in fiberglass, cellulose, etc.) slow this down, resisting heat flow. The higher the R-value, the better it blocks conduction. Convection: Hot air rises, cold air sinks. In an uninsulated attic, warm air escapes in winter, and hot air pours in during summer. Insulation traps air, breaking the cycle. Radiation: Sunlight heats your roof, radiating energy downward. Reflective materials (like radiant barriers) bounce it back, but traditional insulation absorbs some too. In Charlotte, all three are at play. Your roof hits 150°F in July, driving radiant and conductive heat into your home. In January, convection pulls heat out faster than you can say “turn up the thermostat.” Insulation’s job? Stop them cold. Types of Insulation Used in Charlotte’s Climate Our mixed-humid Zone 3A climate—3,200 heating degree days, 1,500 cooling degree days (NOAA)—means insulation must handle both extremes. Summer’s 70% humidity pushes warm, moist air into attics, meeting cooler surfaces and condensing. Winter’s 33°F lows let heat escape, stressing your furnace. Insulation stabilizes temperatures, reducing condensation and energy loss. Here’s a list of insulation types commonly used in Charlotte homes: Fiberglass Insulation: Available in batts or loose-fill, it’s popular for its affordability and effectiveness in reducing heat transfer through conduction. Blown-in Cellulose Insulation: Made from recycled paper products, cellulose is treated for fire resistance and works well in reducing air leaks due to its dense structure. Closed-Cell Spray Foam Insulation: Offers excellent air sealing qualities and is often used in areas with irregular shapes where other insulation types might not fit snugly. Radiant Barriers: Used primarily to reduce radiant heat gain in warm climates like Charlotte’s, these reflective materials redirect heat away from attics. Rigid Foam Insulation: Known for its high R-values and moisture resistance, it’s a good choice for controlling both heat gain and loss. Mineral Wool Insulation: Naturally fire-resistant, mineral wool also offers soundproofing benefits and is an environmentally friendly option. These insulation types address Charlotte’s unique climate challenges, providing both thermal regulation and energy efficiency. Charlotte Building Codes: The R-38 Standard The 2018 NC Energy Conservation Code mandates that attic insulation should be R-38 for cavity insulation (between joists) or R-30 for continuous insulation (like foam boards). Why R-38? It’s ideal for Charlotte’s climate, efficiently blocking summer heat while effectively retaining warmth in the winter. The R-value indicates the insulation’s resistance to heat flow; the higher the R-value, the better the insulation performs. In Charlotte, a recommended R-value for attic insulation is between R-30 and R-60, varying based on the home’s age and existing insulation quality. Codes also require air sealing to ≤5 ACH50 (air changes per hour at 50 Pascals), ensuring all leaks around pipes, vents, or lights are sealed properly. This prevents air from bypassing the insulation and losing 20% of its efficiency. Ventilation is equally important, with a 1:150 vent-to-attic-area ratio (or 1:300 if a vapor barrier is used) to manage humidity levels, avoiding the risk of mold growth. Beyond R-Value: Air and Moisture R-value’s not the whole story. Insulation only works when the surrounding system is airtight and ventilated. According to the ENERGY STAR Insulation Guide, air sealing should always come first. Without sealing around pipes, lights, and vents, you could lose 20% of insulation’s effectiveness. Air Sealing: Caulk and foam close leaks before insulating. No seal = lost savings. Ventilation: Soffit and ridge vents keep attics dry. Charlotte homes demand airflow to control 70%+ humidity. Moisture Barriers: Spray foam seals itself. Fiberglass or cellulose need vapor retarders to handle local conditions. Together, these three components work together to create a healthier home by improving indoor air quality, reducing pollutant levels, and managing moisture. For those with breathing conditions, these improvements can lead to a noticeable difference in comfort and health, highlighting the profound impact of a well-managed indoor environment. The Stack Effect The stack effect is a critical phenomenon affecting air movement in homes, driven by differences in temperature, density, and pressure. In winter, warm air inside the house rises to the attic due to its lower density, escaping if the attic isn’t properly insulated, thus straining heating systems and increasing energy costs. Conversely, in summer, external warm air infiltrates cooler indoor spaces, forcing cooling systems to work harder. These opposing seasonal effects create a continuous cycle of airflow, driven by pressure differences, which can lead to uncomfortable drafts, elevated energy bills, and inconsistent temperatures. The impact of the stack effect stretches beyond mere discomfort, influencing several aspects of home maintenance and health. As conditioned air exits and unconditioned air enters, utility costs rise due to overworked HVAC systems. Moreover, the introduction of external air can elevate indoor humidity, fostering mold growth and damaging building materials, while also compromising air quality by allowing pollutants and allergens inside. Addressing the stack effect through effective attic insulation and thorough air sealing not only stabilizes temperature and pressure dynamics but also enhances overall home comfort and energy efficiency. Charlotte’s Codes in Action Let’s get practical. A typical Charlotte attic needs R-38—say, 11 inches of cellulose. If you’re insulating the roofline, add baffles to keep vents clear (codes require it). Seal every penetration—think recessed lights, HVAC ducts. Ignore these, and you’re not just wasting energy; you’re risking fines if inspected. The code’s there for a reason—Charlotte’s climate doesn’t mess around. This science isn’t abstract—it’s why your home feels the way it does. Insulation, sealing, and ventilation are your tools to take control. Signs Your Current Insulation Needs to Be Replaced Higher energy bills: Rising energy expenses during the winter heating months or summer cooling months. Uneven indoor temperatures: Uneven indoor temperatures: If certain areas of your home are consistently hotter or colder than others, it might indicate that your attic insulation is failing to maintain a consistent internal climate. Drafts, especially in winter: Experiencing noticeable drafts inside your home, especially throughout the colder winter months, is a common indicator. Ice dams in colder climates: Ice dams can form in colder climates when heat escapes the attic, melting rooftop snow, which then refreezes at the edges, leading to potential roof damage and water leaks into your home. How To Visually Inspect Your Insulation What to look for: gaps, damage, moisture: When inspecting your attic insulation, be on the lookout for several issues that could indicate it’s time for a replacement. Check for any gaps where insulation might be missing, any visible damage such as tears or deterioration, and signs of moisture such as wet insulation, which could lead to mold or mildew growth. How to determine the thickness of your insulation: Establishing the thickness of your insulation is crucial for ensuring optimal energy efficiency. This involves measuring the depth of the insulation material in your attic, such as fiberglass or cellulose, to determine if it meets the recommended standards for your area. Necessary tools for conducting a thorough inspection: To effectively inspect your attic insulation, use a measuring tape to check thickness for adequate R-value, a flashlight to spot gaps or damage, a moisture meter to detect potential mold-causing moisture, and a camera to document issues, all while wearing protective gear like a dust mask and gloves. A stable step ladder may be necessary for safe access to all attic areas. Preventing Condensation in Your Attic The persistent 60–70% humidity in Charlotte makes condensation a stealthy adversary. When warm air meets a cold roof deck, condensation forms, transforming your attic into a perfect environment for mold growth. Effective insulation plays a crucial role in reducing mold risk by regulating attic temperatures. Here’s how to prevent it: Ventilation: Install soffit-to-ridge vents at a 1:150 ratio, as required by NC code, to effectively expel damp air. Air Sealing: Use foam seals to prevent humid air leaks, especially around hatches and ducts. Material Choice: Choose spray foam for its superior moisture barrier, while fiberglass should be paired with a vapor retarder for ceiling applications. Remember, insulation is part of a broader system. When executed correctly, it keeps your attic dry and mold-free. How to Install Attic Insulation: A Comprehensive Guide Installing attic insulation isn’t rocket science, but it’s not a picnic either. Whether you’re rolling up your sleeves for a DIY project or curious about how pros do it, this section breaks it all down: the process, the challenges, and how they stack up. Let’s explore. Overview: What’s Involved? Insulation’s goal is simple—hit R-38 to block heat flow—but getting there takes prep, precision, and patience. You’ll need to seal leaks, ensure ventilation, choose a material, and apply it evenly. DIYers face cramped, hot attics and potential hazards like mold or wiring issues. Pros bring tools, crews, and expertise to streamline it. Both paths work if done right, but each has trade-offs. DIY Attic Insulation: Step-by-Step Tempted to tackle it yourself? It’s doable, but don’t kid yourself—it’s sweaty, itchy work, especially in Charlotte’s summer heat or winter chill. Here’s how to do it without botching it. Step 1: Inspect Your Attic Begin by measuring the insulation depth. If it’s below 10–12 inches, you’re likely short of R-38. Next, check for leaks around pipes, vents, and lights, as well as any signs of mold, since humidity often hides surprises. Ensure that all vents, such as soffit and ridge vents, are clear because blocked vents can spell trouble. Step 2: Gather Gear When gathering materials for your attic insulation project, consider using fiberglass batts or blown-in cellulose, which are more DIY-friendly. Keep in mind that spray foam typically requires professional handling. As for tools, you’ll need a utility knife, caulk gun, blower (specifically for cellulose), measuring tape, and boards to walk on safely. Don’t overlook safety gear; it’s crucial to wear a respirator, gloves, long sleeves, and goggles since insulation fibers can be quite irritating and pose health risks. Step 3: Insulation Removal Removing old, inadequate insulation is crucial to meet the recommended R-38 standard. After removal, start by checking for the growth of mold, since mold indicates a severe moisture problem that can compromise new insulation. Be vigilant for rodent droppings and signs of damage such as water stains, which suggest moisture issues. If any of these conditions are present, these issues must be fully resolved before insulation replacement can proceed. Carefully remove and dispose of the old insulation while wearing protective gear, and ensure the attic is dry and clean before installing the new material. Step 4: Seal Air Leaks Use silicone caulk for small gaps and expanding foam for larger ones, ensuring you address every penetration such as ducts, wires, and chimneys. This is crucial because leaks allow air to bypass insulation, which wastes about 20% of its efficiency, according to the Department of Energy (DOE). Step 5: Set Up Ventilation Clear vents of debris and install baffles if you’re insulating near soffits. It’s important to adhere to Charlotte’s building code, which demands a 1:150 vent ratio. Don’t skimp on this aspect, as proper ventilation is crucial to prevent humidity issues that can undermine your insulation’s effectiveness. Step 6: Install Insulation When installing fiberglass batts, ensure they are cut to fit snugly between the joists without leaving gaps or compressing the material too much, as this can reduce their effectiveness. For optimal insulation, you may need to lay the batts in layers to achieve an R-38 rating. If you choose blown-in cellulose, rent a blower and aim for a consistent depth of 11–12 inches; remember that uneven application can severely impact performance. It can be helpful to mark your joists with tape to easily track your progress. Always follow the manufacturer’s guidelines during installation to ensure you maintain the warranty and achieve the best results. Step 7: Double-Check Before concluding your attic insulation project, conduct a thorough double-check to ensure everything is in optimal condition. Make sure there is no exposed wiring, and if any wiring is present, it should be covered with insulation only if it’s rated safe for such use. Verify that all vents are still open and clear of obstruction to maintain proper ventilation. Finally, confirm that the depth of the insulation is consistent throughout the space. Once these aspects are in order, you’re done with the installation. Why It’s Tough DIY sounds empowering, but attics are brutal—tight spaces, dust, and heat wear you down. Without pro tools (like industrial blowers), it’s slow. Mold’s a risk if you miss damp spots, and mistakes like gaps drop efficiency fast. Still, with grit and prep, you can nail it. Professional Attic Insulation Installation: How It’s Done Pros take it to another level—not because DIYers can’t hack it, but because experience and equipment make a difference. Here’s the process. Step 1: Assessment Detailed inspection—moisture, leaks, vents, and insulation levels—using thermal cameras for precision. Measures attic size to calculate exact material needs for R-38. Step 2: Prep Work Industrial-grade air sealing with foam, hitting spots DIYers miss (think attic hatches). Ventilation: check the baffles or extra vents added if needed, per NC CODE. Step 3: Installation Materials: Cellulose, spray foam, or fiberglass, applied with pro blowers or sprayers for uniform coverage. Speed: A 1,000-sq-ft attic takes 4–6 hours with a crew, vs. days for DIY. Tools: Insulation removers (for old material) and high-capacity blowers ensure perfection. Step 4: Cleanup and Verify No trace left behind—debris gone, vents clear. Depth and sealing checked to hit R-38 and ≤5 ACH50 standards. Why It Shines Pros have the edge—crews cut time, tools hit hard-to-reach spots, and expertise avoids errors. They know Charlotte’s humidity quirks, ensuring ventilation and sealing are spot-on. It’s not about DIY being “bad”—it’s about pros doing it faster and cleaner. DIY vs. Professional: A Comparison Effort: Tackling insulation yourself is exhausting—prepare for hours of crawling, sweating, and itching. In contrast, professionals complete the job while you relax with a cup of coffee. Tools: While DIY enthusiasts rely on rented basic equipment, professionals bring industrial-grade machines that ensure speed and depth of coverage. Precision: DIY projects risk leaving gaps that can result in up to 30% loss in efficiency, whereas professionals ensure flawless R-38 coverage. Time: DIY efforts can stretch over several weekends, but professionals can finish the job in just a few hours. Safety: DIY approaches expose you to dust, wires, and mold hazards, whereas professionals are trained to manage these risks effectively. Outcome: While DIY can yield results if you’re meticulous, professionals consistently deliver perfect insulation results.Contemplating a DIY project? If you’ve got all the necessary steps and feel ready, go ahead and dive right in. On the other hand, thinking about hiring a professional service? It provides a hassle-free experience, but ultimately, the choice is up to you. Insulation Materials: Your Options for Charlotte Attics Picking the right insulation is like choosing tires for your car—each type is built for specific conditions. Charlotte’s climate demands materials that handle heat, cold, and humidity. Here’s the lineup, with pros, cons, and local fit. Fiberglass Batt Insulation or Loose-Fill R-Value: 2.9–3.8/inch (10–13 inches for R-38). Details: Glass fibers in batts (pre-cut) or loose-fill (blown). Pros: Cheap, easy to find, DIY-friendly. INSULATION CAN CUT ENERGY BILLS BY UP TO 15% with fiberglass. Cons: Gaps or compression lose 30% efficiency. Needs venting to avoid moisture traps. Charlotte Fit: Solid for attic floors if installed tightly—common in budget projects. Cellulose Blown-In Insulation R-Value: 3.2–3.8/inch (10–12 inches for R-38). Details: Recycled paper, fire-treated, blown into place. Pros: Green, mold-resistant, fills odd spaces—perfect for older Charlotte homes. INSULATION CAN REDUCE NOISE BY UP TO 70%. Cons: Settles (20% thickness loss over time), needs a blower. Charlotte Fit:g My go-to for quirky attics; humidity-friendly. Spray Foam Insulation (Open- or Closed-Cell) R-Value: Open-cell: 3.6–3.8/inch; Closed-cell: 6.0–6.5/inch (typically 6 inches to reach R-38). Details: Expands on contact and seals air leaks while adding high insulation value. Learn more about the benefits of spray foam insulation. Pros: Blocks air and moisture. Ideal for Charlotte’s humidity and efficiency goals. Cons: Higher cost and must be professionally installed due to fumes and equipment. Charlotte Fit: The best solution for sealed attics, tight spaces, or maximum energy savings. Especially effective when paired with air sealing and proper ventilation. Mineral Wool (Rock or Slag Wool) R-Value: 3.0–3.3/inch (11–13 inches for R-38). Details: Melted rock fibers in batts or loose-fill. Pros: Fireproof (1,800°F+ melting point), great soundproofing. Cons: Heavier, less common than fiberglass. Charlotte Fit: Niche for fire safety or noisy areas. Radiant Barriers R-Value: Minimal—reflects heat, doesn’t resist it. Details: Foil stapled under roof or over insulation. Pros: Cuts summer heat gain by 5–10%—nice for Charlotte’s sun. Cons: Not a standalone; needs insulation. Charlotte Fit: Add-on for hot attics, not a replacement. Rebates and Tax Credits for Charlotte Homeowners Duke Energy Smart $aver Program: Up to $800 back for R-38 upgrades. Federal 25C Tax Credit: 30 percent of costs, up to $1,200 annually. NC Weatherization Program: Free upgrades for income-qualified homes. How Often Should You Inspect Your Attic Insulation Inspect your attic once a year. Look after major weather events or HVAC changes. Schedule a professional evaluation every three to five years to confirm insulation depth, moisture conditions, and ventilation status. Final Takeaway In Charlotte, attic insulation isn’t a luxury — it’s one of the most important upgrades you can make for year-round comfort and lower energy bills. Whether you go with blown-in fiberglass, spray foam, or another material, the key is doing the job right. Seal air leaks, reach R-38, and ventilate properly. If you’re unsure where to start, bring in a trusted local contractor who knows what homes here really need. ### Save on Insulation Before the End of the Year! This fall and winter provide a golden opportunity to not only enhance your home’s comfort and energy efficiency but also enjoy a substantial tax reduction! By investing in insulation upgrades for your home before the end of 2023, you can reduce this year’s tax liability by $1,200 and see those savings in 2024, instead of having to wait until you do your taxes in 2025. Let’s delve into how this federal tax credit for insulation works, and the myriad of benefits that come with attic and basement insulation. Insulation Incentives: A Warm Welcome to Tax Savings The 25C insulation tax credit was extended thanks to the passing of the Inflation Reduction Act, which among many other things, recognizes the environmental and energy-saving benefits of proper insulation. This financial incentive is designed to encourage homeowners to adopt more energy-efficient practices, contributing to a greener and more sustainable future for all. But insulation is more than just a reason to save on your energy costs and your taxes in April — it's also a way to make your home more comfortable all year round. How to Claim the Insulation Tax Credit Choosing a contractor that specializes in whole-home insulation and air sealing solutions ensures that every nook and cranny of your home is optimally insulated. Our team of experts is dedicated to providing comprehensive solutions that enhance your home’s energy efficiency, comfort, and air quality, while also helping you navigate through the process of claiming your $1,200 tax reduction — which is as follows: Schedule an insulation assessment with Standard Insulating Co. Once you have reviewed and approved our proposal, we will get to work installing your new insulation and ensuring your insulation work is completed by the end of 2023. Keep all receipts. When you file your taxes in April of 2024, you or your tax professional should file form 5695. Deduct 30% of your insulation material costs, up to $1,200 from what you owe in federal taxes. Continue to enjoy your comfortable, energy efficient home for years to come! The Comfort of Quality Insulation Installation Investing in updated insulation creates a barrier that shields your indoor living space from the external environment, ensuring that the warmth stays in during winter and out during summer. This thermal barrier not only makes your home more comfortable year-round but also reduces the workload on your heating and cooling systems, prolonging their lifespan. When combined with professional air sealing, and in some cases a radiant barrier, these upgrades provide benefits you’ll be able to feel in your home, and in your wallet. How Insulation Reduces Energy Costs By preventing the escape of heated or cooled air from your home, insulation ensures that your HVAC system doesn’t have to work as hard or as often to maintain a comfortable indoor temperature. This efficiency translates directly into reduced energy consumption and, consequently, lower utility bills. Over time, the savings accrued from diminished energy costs can be substantial, offsetting the initial investment in insulation. Battling Drafts and Enhancing Air Quality Drafts can be a major concern, especially during the chilly winters in Charlotte. By upgrading your insulation, you effectively minimize the infiltration of cold air into your living spaces, eliminating uncomfortable drafts. And because insulation (and air sealing) seals off gaps and prevents outdoor allergens, pollutants, and moisture from entering your home, insulation helps maintain a cleaner and healthier indoor environment. Where is Insulation Most Effective? The Attic and Basement! Without adequate attic insulation, a significant portion of your heating can escape through the roof. By insulating your attic, you keep the heat inside for longer, maintaining a cozy and warm environment during the colder months. Additionally, attic insulation prevents the scorching summer heat from infiltrating your home, keeping it cool and comfortable. Basements and crawl spaces can be notorious for dampness and cold. Insulating your basement not only prevents the cold ground from leaching heat from your home but also mitigates the risk of moisture-related issues, such as mold and mildew. A well-insulated basement can serve as a comfortable living or storage space, maximizing the utility of every square foot of your home. Standard Insulating Company Helps with Insulation Rebates, Financing, and More Charlotte homeowners can seize this opportunity to make a smart investment in their home and enjoy the multifaceted benefits that come with quality insulation. And when you work with Standard Insulating Company for your home improvement project, our team can also work with you to take advantage of not only the 25C tax credit, available rebates from Duke Energy, and financing options so you can take advantage of these energy savings right away. ### What are the Benefits of Using Spray Foam Insulation? Having a well-insulated home is more than just a luxury—it's a necessity for the homes of Charlotte. At Standard Insulating Company, we're not just about providing insulation; we're about offering the best insulation for your home’s unique needs. We've seen firsthand how exploring the benefits of spray foam insulation, either as a standalone or in tandem with fiberglass insulation, can revolutionize the comfort and energy efficiency of a home. What is Spray Foam Insulation? Before we dive in, it's essential to understand what spray foam is and how it works. Spray foam insulation is sprayed as a liquid, and dries as a cured solid plastic material. Upon application, it undergoes a fascinating transformation, expanding to fill every nook and cranny. Once it dries and cures, it becomes a formidable barrier against heat transfer. This type of insulation material is most often applied in attics and crawl spaces, where an airtight barrier is of the utmost importance. Spray Foam Insulation Benefits High R-Value per Inch The primary purpose of any insulation material is to regulate indoor temperatures, ensuring a home remains warm in the winter and cool in the summer. Spray foam insulation has a high R-value, which means it does a good job of keeping heat in during the winter and out during the summer. Reduced Energy Costs The advantages of spray foam extend beyond just temperature regulation. Consider the financial aspect. With energy prices expected to stay on the rise, an energy-efficient home isn't just an environmental boon—it's a significant cost-saving measure. Spray foam's exceptional insulating properties mean reduced energy consumption, leading to noticeably lower utility bills. Improved Indoor Air Quality The quality of the air you breathe at home is a critical factor in your overall well-being, especially with increasing pollution levels in urban areas like Charlotte. Spray foam's air sealing capability ensures that common pollutants, allergens, and other contaminants are kept outside, leading to a healthier indoor environment. Lower Indoor Humidity/Moisture With an airtight seal, spray foam can also reduce the amount of moisture and humidity that accumulates in your home. This greatly reduces mold or mildew growth, which is harmful to your lungs and to the materials your home is constructed with. Noise Reduction Lastly, for those who long for peace and quiet, the soundproofing qualities of spray foam insulation are a godsend. Whether it's the noise of traffic, loud neighbors, or even the occasional thunderstorm, spray foam acts as a buffer, ensuring your home remains a peaceful sanctuary. Take the Next Step Toward a More Comfortable Home Making an informed choice when it comes to your home comfort and energy improvements can be daunting. That's why we have made it our business here at Standard Insulating Company! Using the best in building science knowledge, and our extensive experience installing insulation in Charlotte area homes, we can assess your home’s insulation needs, and then install the right insulation materials in the right areas. If you’re wondering if spray foam is the best choice for you, our team is always on hand to offer guidance, answer questions, and provide insights based on our years of experience. Are you planning an upgrade for your insulation? Don't settle for mediocrity — choose excellence. Reach out to Standard Insulation Company for a free estimate at 704-333-5151 ### What Your Home Needs This Summer: Attic Insulation & Radiant Barrier ### Unlocking the Cooling Power of Attic Insulation: A North Carolina Summer Essential A high-powered AC is seemingly the front line for keeping a home cool when the North Carolinian temperatures reach peak summer levels—however, one key method that's often overlooked is attic insulation. At first glance, it might seem counterintuitive: How can adding a layer of insulation, often associated with warmth, help in keeping a home cooler? So let's dive into the building science and practical benefits of attic insulation. Understanding Heat Transfer To appreciate how insulation works, it's essential to understand how summer heat transfers into a home. During summer, the sweltering North Carolina sun heats up the roof, and this heat can permeate into the space below making for a hot attic. Once the attic has heated up, that heat will try and infiltrate your cooler living space in whatever way it can. This makes the job of an air conditioner much harder, as more heat is introduced and cool air is neutralized. Attic Insulation: The First Line of Defense Insulation acts as a barrier, slowing this natural heat exchange. When installed in the right places, insulation will stabilize the temperatures throughout an entire home, making it more comfortable throughout all seasons. This temperature stability also translates to significant energy savings. When the inside of a home remains cooler naturally, there's less need to run air conditioners or fans continuously, resulting in reduced energy bills. This remains true when it comes time to switch to the furnace, too—the heat from your furnace will stay in the home where it belongs, instead of escaping up through the ceiling and attic. Since your heating and cooling equipment doesn't have to work as hard or as long, the lifespan of these devices can be extended, saving homeowners on potential repair and replacement costs. The Benefits of Attic Insulation At Standard Insulating Company, we tell homeowners about all the different effects and benefits of attic insulation, including: Improved soundproofing Fewer indoor drafts A cooler second floor Reduced use of heating and cooling equipment Improved indoor air quality If you are interested in home upgrades that make the summer months a little more bearable in your Charlotte area home, your home is likely a good candidate for attic insulation! Standard Insulating Company: Your Insulation Experts Attic insulation solutions are not a one-size-fits-all situation, so who you choose as an insulation installation contractor will matter when it comes to the long-term success of your home improvement project. At Standard Insulating Company, our experience insulating the homes of Charlotte has taught us how to efficiently and effectively assess what an attic will need to battle North Carolina’s climate, leaving you with a home that feels more comfortable all year. If you suspect your hot attic is the root of all of your sweltering summer woes, call our team to schedule a free energy analysis, and we can get started making your home a more comfortable and energy-efficient place to live. Looking to stop the summer heat out of your home? Upgrade your attic insulation! Call Standard Insulating Company at 704-333-5151 to schedule a free energy analysis. ### If You Already Have Attic Insulation, Do You Need a Radiant Barrier? Attic insulation is one of the primary home improvements that can increase the efficiency and overall performance of a home, for those here in Charlotte that are looking to reduce their energy costs and stay comfortable all year round. But if you already have attic insulation and are wondering if you could also benefit from a radiant barrier installed under your roof, a trusted insulation and radiant barrier installation contractor will have all the information you need. And that’s exactly what we’re here to do! Here is what you should know about installing a radiant barrier with attic insulation. Understanding Radiant Barrier Insulation Radiant barriers are composed of a highly reflective aluminum material that creates an enclosed airspace inside the attic. The purpose of a radiant barrier is to slow down or prevent radiant heat transfer by intercepting the heat that would otherwise penetrate the roof and radiate down into the attic and living spaces below. In winter, they also help to retain the heat inside the home, making them a year-round solution. Maximizing Existing Attic Insulation Attic insulation, such as fiberglass or cellulose, primarily works by reducing conductive heat transfer. It acts as a barrier to slow down the movement of heat through the attic floor. While this type of insulation is essential, it doesn't always effectively address radiant heat transfer. If you have attic insulation but your home is prone to large amounts of radiant summer heat, adding a radiant barrier will result in the following benefits: Improved Energy Efficiency A radiant barrier complements insulation by reducing the amount of heat that enters or escapes through the roof. This can significantly reduce the workload on your HVAC system and ultimately lead to lower energy bills. Enhanced Home Comfort If you have attic insulation and still experience consistently higher temperatures on the second floor, it could be an indication of heat radiating into the attic space. By installing a radiant barrier, you can help maintain more even temperatures throughout your home, reducing hot spots and improving overall comfort. Extended HVAC System Lifespan By adding a radiant barrier to your attic, you can alleviate some of this stress by reducing the heat load on your system. As a result, your HVAC equipment may last longer and require fewer repairs, saving you money in the long run. Ask Standard Insulating Company About Radiant Barriers While attic insulation is a vital component of energy efficiency, combining it with a radiant barrier can take your home's comfort and cost savings to the next level. By preventing radiant heat transfer, a radiant barrier complements insulation and helps optimize the performance of your HVAC system. For homeowners seeking improved energy efficiency, enhanced comfort, and long-term savings, the addition of a radiant barrier to their existing attic insulation is worth considering. Consult with Standard Insulating Company to determine the best solution for your home's specific needs and enjoy the benefits of this powerful combination. Ready to get serious about energy efficiency? Call Standard Insulating Company at to explore the benefits of adding a radiant barrier to your existing attic insulation. ### Closing the Gap: Rethinking Open Vents in Crawl Spaces Open crawl space vents: it's historically been the consensus in construction to include them in building design, but as building science has advanced and informed home design, the paradigm has shifted. As a trusted insulation company that specializes in fixing crawl space issues throughout the greater Charlotte area, Standard Insulating Company has come to understand that having open vents in the crawl spaces of our homes can lead to numerous issues, ranging from pest infestations and indoor air quality degradation to pervasive moisture issues that affect the entire house. Closing the crawl space vents, when done correctly, can dramatically improve these issues and even enhance overall home performance. The Downside of Open Vents in Crawl Spaces Traditionally, home designs included crawl spaces to grant easy access to the home’s underpinning systems like plumbing, electrical wiring, and heating and cooling units. Open vents were added to these spaces to increase airflow and prevent moisture build-up. However, as we've seen over years and years of crawling underneath older homes, these vents have often been more of a problem than a solution. The problem lies in how these vents allow humid air to freely enter and accumulate in the crawl space. In climates with high humidity, like the one here in Charlotte, this excess moisture will ultimately cause structural damage and a host of other issues: Pest Infestations Open vents provide an inviting entrance for pests, ranging from insects, like ants and cockroaches, to small rodents, like mice. Once inside, these pests can not only cause structural damage but also pose potential health risks to the home's inhabitants. Indoor Air Quality Degradation Because of the way airflow and pressure intertwine in a home, much of the air within a home actually originates from its crawl space. If the air in the crawl space is laden with moisture or contaminants, the indoor air quality within the entire house can be significantly compromised. This can lead to a myriad of health concerns. Moisture Problems Throughout the Home The moisture entering the crawl space through open vents can trigger a chain reaction of issues throughout the home. These issues include a heightened risk of mold growth, peeling paint, and even foundational problems over time. The Upside of Closing Vents and Prioritizing Insulation The benefits of sealing crawl space vents are far-reaching. By gaining complete control over airflow and moisture, we can foster healthier, more comfortable, and more energy-efficient homes. Closed, encapsulated, and properly ventilated crawl spaces offer: Superior Moisture Control Closing the vents in your crawl space significantly reduces the amount of moisture entering the space. Encapsulating the crawl space by installing a vapor barrier and incorporating a properly designed ventilation system can further ensure that any residual moisture is effectively managed. Improved Indoor Air Quality By creating an airtight crawl space and introducing controlled ventilation, we can substantially reduce indoor air pollution and enhance overall air quality within the home. The air that circulates into your home from the crawl space will be cleaner, drier, and healthier to breathe. Increased Energy Efficiency Closing crawl space vents and insulating the space helps establish a home’s thermal envelope. By adding effective insulation measures, we create a barrier that limits the exchange of heat, thereby increasing the energy efficiency of the entire home. Overall, an airtight and insulated home will require much less of your heating and cooling system, saving you on energy costs each month of the year. Effective Pest Control By closing off access points like open vents, we can significantly limit the entry of unwanted pests into our homes, which not only provides peace of mind but also mitigates potential structural damage. The Role of Building Science in Home Performance Upgrades At Standard Insulating Company, we're committed to improving home performance using a science-based approach. Our team of knowledgeable building science professionals will assess your crawl space, guide you through the process, and suggest the most efficient solutions tailored to your home. We aim to strike the "Goldilocks" balance, ensuring just the right amount of controlled airflow while maintaining an airtight, well-insulated space. Free Energy Analysis for a Smarter Home Unlock an energy efficient home with a FREE energy analysis. We listen to your concerns, audit your home’s efficiency with advanced tools and share a report with actionable solutions for cost savings and rebates you qualify for. This free service provides clear insights without any commitment. Schedule Today ### How Much Does Crawl Space Encapsulation Save? If your energy bills have been out of control recently, your crawl space could be to blame. When your crawl space is not properly sealed, it can contribute to the stack effect, which allows cold air to be sucked into your home during the winter and hot air to be sucked in during the summer. This makes it harder for your HVAC system to heat and cool your home, increasing your energy bills. Encapsulating your crawl space makes it easier for your home to maintain a comfortable temperature, saving you money on your energy bills. But energy savings aren’t the only reason why crawl space encapsulation is a good idea—there are many additional benefits to crawl space insulation and encapsulation that make the investment worth it. Why Crawl Space Encapsulation Is Worth the Cost Crawl space encapsulation is one of the best upgrades you can make to your home. Makes Your Home More Comfortable The crawl space encapsulation process includes sealing and insulating your crawl space, which creates a barrier of protection against heat and cold. This can get rid of cold floors above your crawl space and increase your home comfort all year round. Prevents Mold and Mildew Growth An unsealed crawl space will attract moisture and create the perfect breeding ground for mold. By encapsulating your crawl space, you can seal it off to protect against moisture intrusion and greatly reduce the risk of mold and mildew growth. Improves Indoor Air Quality Most of the air that’s inside your crawl space will eventually end up in your home. That means crawl space contaminants like mold, pests, and other allergens can travel into your home and negatively affect your indoor air quality. Crawl space encapsulation keeps air pollutants out of your home and improves indoor air quality. Keeps Pests Away Pests like rodents, ants, and cockroaches are attracted to crawl spaces because they offer a dark, damp place to nest and breed. Crawl space encapsulation seals off pest entry points, protecting you against infestations and the many issues they can cause. Protects Your Home’s Foundation Many common crawl space issues like moisture and pests can cause serious damage to your home. Moisture can rust, rot, and warp building materials, while pests can burrow in and eat away at them. Crawl space encapsulation keeps moisture and pests out, protecting your home from major damage and expensive repairs. How Much Does Crawl Space Encapsulation Cost? Crawl space insulation costs can vary depending on the size of your crawl space and the amount of work that’s needed. A typical crawl space encapsulation will include sealing and insulating the crawl space, installing a vapor barrier, and installing a dehumidifier. However, if the crawl space is full of mold and pests, you will need mold remediation and pest removal before encapsulation can be done, which will increase the costs. The best way to find out how much crawl space encapsulation will cost for your home is to schedule a free energy analysis with Standard Insulating Company. One of our crawl space specialists will examine your crawl space and provide an estimate. We pride ourselves on offering honest, high-quality crawl space solutions in the Charlotte, NC area. We can also help you take advantage of financing and rebates to make your project as affordable as possible. Save on energy costs with crawl space encapsulation. Call 704-333-5151 or contact us online to schedule a free energy analysis. ### How the Inflation Reduction Act Helps You Save on Insulation The Inflation Reduction Act of 2022 made headline news last year, but did you know that some of the considerations of the IRA allow for significant savings on insulation replacement and installation, in the form of tax credits? This makes it more affordable to improve the overall energy efficiency of your Charlotte area home, reducing energy costs for years to come. Read on to learn how you can use these energy efficiency tax credits to improve your home. Tax Credits for Insulation and Air Sealing The Inflation Reduction Act has breathed new life into the former Nonbusiness Energy Property Tax Credit, now known as the Energy Efficiency Home Improvements Tax Credit. This credit offsets your federal income tax by a full 30% of qualifying energy-saving home improvement costs (some improvements qualify for savings on insulation and materials, and some do not). An array of energy efficiency upgrades can qualify for this tax credit, including (but not limited to) Attic insulation Wall insulation Basement insulation  Crawl space insulation  Air sealing Claiming your 30% IRA Insulation Tax Credit is a straightforward process. Just include IRS Form 5695 when you file your standard tax return. The credit can be claimed multiple times, and is subject to an annual limit of $1,200. IRA Rebates Coming Soon On top of this, the Inflation Reduction Act has paved the way for two innovative rebate programs to facilitate affordable home improvements like insulation and air sealing. These are the HOMES (Home Owner Managing Energy Savings) Rebate Program and the High-Efficiency Electric Home Rebate Program. While the funding is not immediately available, the Department of Energy expects it to reach individual states by early 2024, and the public should be able to access the rebates later in the year. Although funding in North Carolina is expected to remain unavailable for a while, it's crucial to take immediate action to leverage the existing tax credits. By upgrading your insulation sooner, you can start enjoying reduced energy bills and enhanced indoor comfort more quickly! Stay Comfortable, Save Energy, with Better Insulation Insulation saves energy, which is why the federal government is rewarding homeowners who invest in insulating their homes. During the hot summer months, well-insulated homes prevent the cool air generated by your air conditioning system from escaping. Insulation acts as a barrier, halting the heat transfer from the sweltering outside air into the cooler interiors of your home, which reduces the burden on your cooling system. During the colder months, insulation helps to keep the warmth inside your house by limiting the escape of heat to the outdoors and reducing the amount of energy required to heat your home. In essence, fiberglass insulation works year-round in Charlotte's climate, ensuring a stable and comfortable indoor temperature while maximizing energy efficiency. It can significantly reduce the energy used for heating and cooling, saving you on your utility costs. Call Standard Insulating Company and Save on Insulation Costs The experienced team at Standard Insulating Company is well versed in the ins and outs of IRA tax credits, and ensuring your home insulation upgrades qualify for the maximum tax credit or rebate amount possible. And of course, with every home that Standard Insulating Company insulates, proper installation is our top priority. We aren’t happy until you can feel the difference in your home, and see the difference on your energy bill! Free Energy Analysis for a Smarter Home Unlock an energy efficient home with a FREE energy analysis. We listen to your concerns, audit your home’s efficiency with advanced tools and share a report with actionable solutions for cost savings and rebates you qualify for. This free service provides clear insights without any commitment. Schedule Today ### How To Use Incentives To Update Your Home If you're a homeowner in North Carolina looking to improve your home's energy efficiency, you're in luck! The Inflation Reduction Act (IRA) of 2022 now offers tax credits, and will soon offer rebates for a variety of home performance services, making it easier and more affordable to upgrade your home. Standard Insulating Company knows firsthand how important insulation is to improving the comfort and overall efficiency of homes in the greater Charlotte area, and we are excited to help our friends, family, and neighbors save on the cost of insulation for their homes. Here’s what you need to know. Tax Credits for Energy Efficient Home Improvements The Energy Efficient Home Improvement Tax Credit allows homeowners to claim up to 30% of the cost of qualifying home improvements, up to a combined annual limit of $1,200. Eligible services include home energy audits (with a maximum credit of $150), insulation services (materials only), and air sealing (materials only). To claim this tax credit, homeowners can file IRS Form 5695 with their annual tax returns. This credit can be claimed multiple years in a row, from 2022 to 2032. Rebates for Energy Efficient Home Improvements The IRA also created the Home Owner Managing Energy Savings (HOMES) and High-Efficiency Electric Homes rebate programs, which offer rebates for a variety of energy efficiency home improvements, including insulation, air sealing, and more. These rebates are not yet available, but funds have been allocated for individual state-run programs and we're keeping a close eye on updates for North Carolina. As soon as we know when these rebates will be available, we will make sure our customers know! Upgrade Your Home with Fiberglass Insulation Updating the insulation in key areas of your home, like the attic, crawl space, and walls, is an energy-saving home improvement you will also be able to feel. Many of our customers comment on noticing an improvement to the overall feel of their home once their old insulation has been removed and new insulation has been installed. Benefits you might not think of include: Improved soundproofing Fewer indoor drafts Consistent temperatures throughout every room of your home Healthier indoor air quality With the new energy efficiency rebates and energy incentives that will be available, you can spend less on the upgrades that help you spend less every month on energy costs! Talk to Standard Insulating Company about leveraging these home performance rebates and tax credits, and get your project started today. Save on insulation installations with new tax credits and incentives. We can help you take full advantage! Call Standard Insulating Company at 704-333-5151. ### Should Attic Insulation Go on the Ceiling or the Floor? When Charlotte homeowners start planning an insulation upgrade, one question leads the conversation: Should I insulate my attic floor or ceiling? The answer depends on how your home is used, the condition of your attic, and whether you want to treat the attic as part of your home's conditioned space. At Standard Insulating Company, we’ve been insulating homes in the Charlotte region for over 80 years. Our experience tells us that the right insulation strategy hinges on your specific home’s layout, how you use your attic, and your energy savings goals. Let’s break down the differences, options, and local insights to help you decide. How Insulation Works in the Attic Insulation slows heat flow between spaces. In the summer, insulation keeps Charlotte’s intense heat from infiltrating your home. In winter, it keeps the warmth your HVAC system produces from escaping. But the material alone isn’t enough—without air sealing, insulation can’t deliver peak performance. The U.S. Department of Energy advises that homes should be insulated from the roof down to the foundation. But the right place to start is your attic—specifically deciding whether to insulate the attic floor or the roof deck. Insulating the Attic Floor: Best for Unfinished, Ventilated Attics If your attic is unfinished and used for little more than storage, attic floor insulation is your most cost-effective approach. This method insulates the space between the living area below and the unconditioned attic above. Why Insulate the Attic Floor? Conserves energy: Keeps conditioned air in your living space. Cost-effective: Requires less material compared to insulating the entire roof deck. Simpler installation: Blown-in fiberglass or cellulose achieves recommended R-38 insulation levels in our region. The Role of Air Sealing Attic floor insulation must be paired with air sealing to be effective. Air leaks around light fixtures, ductwork, plumbing penetrations, and the attic access door are common energy loss points. Oak Ridge National Laboratory confirms that pairing air sealing with attic insulation enhances overall energy performance. Downsides The attic remains hot in summer and cold in winter. HVAC equipment located in the attic stays exposed to temperature extremes, which can shorten lifespan and reduce efficiency. Storage items remain subject to heat, humidity, and cold. Insulating the Attic Ceiling (Roof Deck): Best for Finished or Semi-Conditioned Attics If your attic is finished, partially finished, or houses HVAC systems or ductwork, the roof deck should be insulated instead. Benefits of Insulating Attic Ceiling Creates a conditioned attic space Protects mechanical systems Expands usable space Improves whole-home efficiency The University of Central Florida's Building Research division emphasizes the value of roof deck insulation for minimizing thermal bridging and improving home energy efficiency. Types of Attic Ceiling Insulation Spray Foam Insulation: Creates an air seal while insulating, ideal for unvented attic designs. Rigid Foam Boards: Delivers high R-values, excellent for sloped ceilings. Fiberglass Batts: Works with air barriers, though less effective without sealing. Things to Keep in Mind Higher upfront cost compared to insulating the attic floor. Ventilation adjustments may be needed to avoid moisture issues. Building codes may dictate specific requirements when converting to a conditioned attic. Combining Radiant Barriers for Added Efficiency Adding a radiant barrier to the roof deck can improve performance further, especially in hot climates like Charlotte. A radiant barrier reflects heat away from the attic space, reducing cooling loads on your home. The Department of Energy affirms that radiant barriers effectively reduce heat gain in southern climates. This is a strategic addition for homeowners looking to control high summer cooling costs. When Should You Insulate Both the Attic Floor and Ceiling? In general, insulating both the attic floor and the ceiling isn’t recommended. It can trap moisture between layers, leading to condensation and mold growth. However, there are exceptions: If you're sealing off a portion of the attic for storage while conditioning another part. When local codes, like in some energy-efficient construction standards, call for it. When you have HVAC ductwork that needs to stay within the thermal envelope while keeping part of the attic unconditioned. Special Case: Bonus Rooms and Home Offices Charlotte homes often include bonus rooms built over garages or partially finished attic spaces. These rooms suffer from uncomfortable temperatures if improperly insulated. Insulate the roof deck with spray foam or rigid foam. Air seal extensively to eliminate energy loss. Add radiant barriers to counteract solar heat gain. The Importance of Air Sealing Regardless of your insulation strategy, air sealing is essential for controlling energy loss. Without it, gaps and cracks in the attic allow conditioned air to escape and hot or cold outdoor air to enter. Recessed lighting fixtures Duct chases Plumbing penetrations Attic hatches Electrical wiring holes Charlotte Climate Factor: What Works Best Here? For Charlotte’s hot, humid summers and mild winters: Unfinished, ventilated attics: Insulate the attic floor to R-38 or higher, plus air sealing. Finished attics or HVAC in attic: Insulate the attic ceiling, plus ventilation adjustments if converting to an unvented space. Attic Insulation and Indoor Air Quality Insulation also plays a role in indoor air quality. A properly sealed and insulated attic helps: Keep outdoor pollutants like pollen, dust, and mold spores from entering the living space. Prevent moisture accumulation that leads to mold growth. Reduce drafts that carry unfiltered air through your home. The DOE outlines that proper insulation and air sealing can significantly improve indoor air quality while cutting energy costs. What About Crawl Spaces? While focusing on attic insulation, don’t forget the crawl space. Crawl space encapsulation with proper insulation and a vapor barrier can: Reduce moisture that seeps up into the home. Prevent mold and improve air quality. Add to overall energy savings. Next Steps for Charlotte Homeowners Still wondering, "Should I insulate my attic floor or ceiling?" Let the experts at Standard Insulating Company help. We evaluate your entire home’s structure, insulation, and air sealing needs to recommend the best strategy for comfort, efficiency, and long-term savings. Free Energy Analysis for a Smarter Home Unlock an energy efficient home with a FREE energy analysis. We listen to your concerns, audit your home’s efficiency with advanced tools and share a report with actionable solutions for cost savings and rebates you qualify for. This free service provides clear insights without any commitment. Schedule Today ### How Will Crawl Space Encapsulation Effect the Temperature in Your Attic? Your attic is at the very top of your home, and your crawl space is at the very bottom. So how, when they’re located so far apart, is it possible for these two spaces to have such an impact on each other? Today, we’re going to answer that question. In this article, we’ll talk about how your crawl space and attic interact with each other, and why encapsulating your crawl space is one of the most effective ways to control the temperature in your attic. It All Starts with the Stack Effect The stack effect in a house, also called the chimney effect, is the force that connects your attic and crawl space. It’s a phenomenon that occurs when it’s colder outside your home than it is inside, so during the winter months here in North Carolina. (The stack effect can happen during the summer, too, but in reverse). Because hot air rises, the heated air inside your house is constantly moving up. If your attic isn’t sealed properly, it will eventually escape into and then out of your attic. As it moves, the hot air will raise the temperature in your attic. But high attic temperatures aren’t the only problem the stack effect causes. The movement of air also creates a negative pressure at the bottom of your home, which causes cold outdoor air to be pulled in. If your crawl space is not encapsulated, the stack effect will pull cold air into your crawl space where it will pick up contaminants from pests and mildew before making its way into your living spaces. The stack effect in a house can lead to all kinds of problems, including: Cold and drafty rooms Uneven room temperatures Poor indoor air quality High energy bills You Need Your Crawl Space Encapsulated to Stop the Stack Effect One of the best ways to stop the stack effect and reduce attic temperature is crawl space encapsulation. When you encapsulate a crawl space, you effectively seal it off from the outdoor elements. This stops cold air from being sucked into your home through your crawl space. Crawl space encapsulation will be most effective at reducing attic temperatures if you also install good attic insulation and air seal your attic. Standard Insulating Company can recommend the best combination of insulation and crawl space solutions to remedy the specific problems you’re experiencing in your home. We offer a free energy analysis to uncover the hidden causes of energy waste in your home so we can implement the right fixes to save you money and make your home more comfortable. Find out if your crawl space needs to be encapsulated. Call 704-333-5151 or contact us to schedule a free energy analysis. ### Why You’re Constantly Running Your Heat on High Do you constantly have your heat cranked up as high as possible but still feel cold in your house? Your first thought may be to call an HVAC company for heating repair when you should be calling an insulation company near you, first. Many home heating issues are caused by a lack of insulation and air sealing, which leads to heat loss in a home. If your home is losing heat with the thermostat set to high, you need more insulation. Inadequate Insulation Causes Heat Loss in a Home Heat is not a static substance—it is always moving from one place to another via conduction, convection, and radiation. Conduction refers to heat that moves through materials; convection refers to heat that moves through the air; radiation refers to heat that moves in a straight line from one hot object to another. All three types of heat movement obey the laws of thermodynamics, which dictate that heat will always move from warmer areas to colder ones. Heat movement happens everywhere, including inside your home. In the winter, when it's colder outside than in, the heat that's inside your house will try to escape towards the colder temperatures outside. We refer to this as heat loss. The Problem with Heat Loss There will always be a small amount of heat loss in your home. But too much heat loss can lead to comfort issues like: A cold house even when the heat is on Drafty rooms and hallways Inconsistent temperatures between rooms Comfort issues aren’t the only problem with heat loss—it also drives up your energy costs. It’s your furnace’s job to keep your home at the temperature you set your thermostat to. If you have heat constantly escaping, your furnace will need to run more frequently to make up for the loss, leading to higher heating bills. Insulation and Air Sealing Prevent Heat Loss! Insulation installation is the best way to prevent heat loss in your home. Insulation works by slowing down the transfer of heat into and out of your house, so less heat escapes in the winter and you don’t have to run your heating system as frequently, saving you money. Just how much does insulation save on energy bills? According to the EPA, you can save an average of 15% on your heating and cooling bills with proper insulation and air sealing. Because heat moves in different ways, you need different types of insulation to effectively protect against heat loss: Fiberglass insulation - Slows conductive heat loss through your attic, crawl space, and walls. Air sealing - Air sealing your attic and crawl space stops hot air from leaking out of your home. Radiant barrier insulation - Radiates heat back into your home as it tries to escape. All of these methods work together to keep your home warm in the winter by reducing heat loss. In the summer, they work in reverse to block heat gain from warming up your home and driving up your air conditioning costs. Insulating and air sealing your house is a year-round solution to comfort and energy efficiency issues. Stay Warm and Save Money this Winter with Insulation Installation Looking for an insulation company in the Charlotte, NC, area? Standard Insulating Company provides professional insulation removal and installation services, and we have many years of experience serving local homeowners. If you’re looking for insulation tips to save money and energy this winter, give us a call. You’ll be shocked by the difference good insulation can make in your home and on your energy bills! Save energy and money this winter. Call (704) 333-5151 or contact us to learn more about insulation installation in Charlotte. ### Why Temperatures Differ From Room to Room (Downloadable PDF) Is every room in your house a different temperature in the winter? Temperature inconsistencies are a common problem, and they’re usually caused by poor insulation and air sealing! Missing Insulation You need insulation in your attic, basement, and exterior walls to keep heat in during the winter. If insulation is missing or lacking in one area, the rooms affected will be colder than those in well-insulated parts of your home. Uneven Insulation Insulation needs to be installed in an even layer to work properly. Uneven insulation can lead to temperature inconsistencies in your home. Damaged Insulation Wet, compacted, or pest-ridden insulation won’t hold heat in effectively and could cause temperature inconsistencies. Insulation removal and replacement will solve the problem. No Air Sealing Heat rises up and out through your attic in the winter, and cold air gets sucked in through your foundation. If you don’t properly air seal these areas, you will have temperature inconsistencies in your home. Crawl Space Issues An unsealed and uninsulated crawl space can cause cold floors in the room above it. If you’re wondering why your floors are so cold in the room above your crawl space but not the rest of your home, this could be the issue. How to Fix a House Temperature Imbalance Insulate the attic, crawl space, and exterior walls Air seal the attic and crawl space Crawl space encapsulation HVAC system upgrade Schedule a free energy analysis Want a more comfortable home? Call (704) 333-5151 or contact us for insulation and air sealing services. ### How Your Crawl Space Affects Your Home in the Winter You probably feel like your crawl space is very separate from the inside of your home, but it’s actually closely connected to it. When temperatures drop during the winter, the impact on your crawl space can affect your entire home. Crawl space encapsulation—the process of sealing off your crawl space from the surrounding earth—can help significantly. If you’re looking for ways to keep your home warm this winter, keep reading! The Stack Effect Sucks Air from Your Crawl Space into Your Home If your crawl space is not sealed, small gaps and cracks (called air leaks) will create a passageway between your crawl space and the rooms above it that air can travel through. The same is true for your attic—if it’s not sealed, hot air from inside your home will rise up and out. As air is lost through your attic, cold air from your crawl space will be sucked in to replace it. This is referred to as the stack effect. The air that comes in from your crawl space can bring cold, moisture, and toxins into your home, leading to a long list of problems, including: Cold, uncomfortable rooms Drafts High heating bills Unhealthy indoor air quality Crawl Space Encapsulation Keeps Your Home Warmer & Healthier Crawl spaces don’t stay warm in the winter on their own, and you can’t heat a crawl space in winter, either. To keep your crawl space warm in the winter and prevent it from making your house uncomfortable, you need to encapsulate your crawl space. The crawl space encapsulation process includes: Cleaning out the crawl space Sealing and insulating the crawl space Installing a crawl space moisture barrier Installing a dehumidifier When you seal and encapsulate your crawl space, you’ll have better control over the air and temperature inside. This will lead to a healthier, more comfortable home and lower energy bills. Crawl space encapsulation is worth the cost and is one of the best upgrades you can make to your home. Crawl Space Encapsulation near You in Charlotte, NC Looking for a crawl space insulation company near you in the Charlotte area? Call Standard Insulating Company today. We offer a free energy analysis to evaluate your home and find out whether you would benefit from crawl space solutions like encapsulation. Our expert team brings care, expertise, and professionalism to every job we complete and always gets the job done right. Our pricing is honest and competitive, and we can help you manage crawl space encapsulation costs with financing and rebates! Interested in crawl space encapsulation? Call 704-333-5151 or contact us to learn more! ### How Much Insulation Does An Attic Need? Adding insulation to your attic is one of the most effective ways to improve your home’s energy efficiency. With the proper attic insulation and air sealing, you can save money on your energy bills and make your home more comfortable all year round. To get all the benefits of attic insulation, you need to have enough of it. Insulation levels are measured in R-values, and the R-value you will need depends on where you live. What Is an Insulation R-value? Insulation levels are measured in R-value per inch of thickness. The R-value tells you how well an insulation material can resist heat transfer—the R stands for resistance. The higher the R-value, the more effective the insulation will be. Almost every type of insulation is measured in R-value, including fiberglass batts and blown-in insulation. The only exception is radiant barrier insulation, which is not measured in R-value because radiant barriers work by reflecting radiant heat rather than blocking thermal heat transfer. The R-Value You Need Depends on Where You Live Recommended R-values are determined by climate, which means the amount of attic insulation you need depends on where you live. In North Carolina, R-38 is recommended for attic insulation. Do You Need More Attic Insulation? If you don’t have any insulation in your attic, you definitely need more. But if you already have some attic insulation, it can be challenging to determine whether you have enough. The best way to figure it out is to schedule a consultation with a professional attic insulation company, like Standard Insulating Company. We can evaluate your current insulation, measure its R-value, and look for signs of damage like moisture or settling. From there, we’ll determine how much more insulation you need and recommend the best type of attic insulation for your home. There are also ways to check your attic insulation levels yourself before calling a professional. An easy way is to visually inspect your attic insulation. Take a look at the insulation you currently have on your attic floor. If the insulation is level at or below the joists in your attic, you likely need more. When you have enough attic insulation, your joists are typically covered. Another way to determine whether you need more attic insulation is to think about the comfort and efficiency of your home. The following issues are often caused by a lack of proper attic insulation: A hot upper floor Inconsistent temperatures between rooms It’s never warm or cool enough in your home Unexplainably high energy bills These signs can also indicate a problem with other types of insulation in your home, like your crawl space insulation or wall insulation. We offer a free energy analysis to determine where your home comfort and efficiency issues are stemming from so we can implement the right solution. We’ve been serving homeowners in the Charlotte, North Carolina area for many years and are proud to offer top-quality, award-winning service to our customers. Find out if your home needs more attic insulation. Call (704) 333-5151 or contact us to schedule a free energy analysis. ### Everything You Should Know About Fiberglass Insulation Fiberglass insulation is the most popular insulation material used in the United States, and for good reason. This type of insulation offers a wide range of benefits that make it a great choice for your Charlotte, North Carolina home. What Is Fiberglass Insulation? Fiberglass insulation is made from a combination of plastic filaments and molten glass that has been spun into extremely fine fibers. It looks like fluffy, pink cotton candy and is probably the first image that comes to mind when you think about home insulation. How Does Fiberglass Insulation Work? Fiberglass insulation works by trapping small pockets of air between its fibers. These air pockets make it difficult for heat to move through the material, helping trap heat inside your home during the winter and block it out during the summer. Fiberglass is a good insulator for many areas in your home, including your attic, walls, and basement or crawl space. Types of Fiberglass Insulation There are two main types of fiberglass insulation: Fiberglass batt insulation: Fiberglass batts are condensed pieces of insulation, often backed with paper. The batts are typically three to six inches thick and sold in long pieces that can be cut to fit the space they’re being installed in. Fiberglass batts are ideal for crawl space insulation. Blown in fiberglass insulation: Fiberglass blown in insulation is made up of loose pieces of insulation. It’s installed using a machine that blows the insulation directly into the area that needs to be insulated. Blown in fiberglass is one of the best attic insulation materials. Fiberglass Insulation R-Value R-value is a measure of thermal resistance that’s used to describe how well an insulation material can block heat transfer, based on its thickness. The higher the R-value, the more effective the material is. Fiberglass batt R-value ranges from about 2.9 to 3.8 per inch Blown in fiberglass R-value ranges from about 2.2 to 2.7 per inch What are the Benefits of Fiberglass Insulation? There are many benefits of blown in fiberglass insulation and fiberglass batt insulation: Saves Energy and Money Fiberglass is a very good insulator that helps slow the transfer of heat into and out of your home. This makes it easier for your HVAC system to keep your home at a comfortable temperature, reducing energy waste and helping you save money on your utility bills every month. Makes Your House More Comfortable With fiberglass insulation for your attic and crawl space, you can dramatically improve your home’s comfort. Fiberglass insulation helps your home stay warmer in the winter and cooler in the summer. It also creates more even and consistent temperatures throughout your home, reduces draftiness, and makes your home quieter. Affordable to Install In addition to being a great insulator, fiberglass is also an extremely affordable type of insulation. Fire Resistant Because fiberglass insulation is made from glass fibers, it is extremely resistant to fire and is a safe material to install in your home. Fast and Easy Installation Fiberglass insulation is lightweight and mess-free, allowing for a quick and easy installation. The expert team at Standard Insulating Company knows how to install fiberglass batts and blown-in fiberglass correctly to ensure a drastic increase in your home comfort and efficiency. We can help you decide whether a fiberglass insulation installation is right for your home with a free energy analysis and complete the installation flawlessly. At Standard Insulating Company, we set the standard for insulation contractors, offering high-quality products, friendly customer service, and exceptional results. Free Energy Analysis for a Smarter Home Unlock an energy efficient home with a FREE energy analysis. We listen to your concerns, audit your home’s efficiency with advanced tools and share a report with actionable solutions for cost savings and rebates you qualify for. This free service provides clear insights without any commitment. Schedule Today ### How Much Control Do You Have Over Home Moisture with High Outdoor Humidity There’s nothing better than escaping into your cool, air-conditioned house on a hot, humid summer day here in North Carolina. But what do you do if the outdoor humidity is following you inside? High indoor humidity is a common problem for homeowners in the Charlotte area, especially during the summer months. Too much humidity in your home can cause a lot of problems, including comfort issues, poor indoor air quality, mold growth, and even water damage. Today, we’re going to talk about how outside humidity affects indoor humidity and how you can make your house less humid. What Causes Excessive Humidity in a House? The humidity outside will also have an impact on the humidity inside your home, especially if you don’t take steps to control it. Here are some of the most common ways outside moisture and humidity can get into your home: An Unsealed Crawl Space In many cases, unwanted moisture in a house comes from an unsealed and uninsulated crawl space. If your crawl space is not sealed off from the elements, moisture can make its way in, affecting the humidity levels throughout your entire home. If your crawl space is sweating, it likely needs to be sealed. Air Leaks Air leakage allows outside air to come into your home through small openings, often referred to as air leaks. Air leaks are commonly found in attics, around plumbing and wire penetrations, in between floor joists, and in many other locations throughout your home. Outside air comes into your home through these leaks, bringing moisture and humidity with it.   How to Prevent Humidity in Your House In order to keep humidity out of your home, you need to figure out how it’s getting in. Standard Insulating Company offers a free energy analysis to uncover problems in your home that could be causing moisture and humidity issues. Once we know why it’s happening, we can recommend the right solution. Some of the best ways to control moisture in your house include: Crawl Space Encapsulation Crawl space encapsulation seals your crawl space off from the surrounding earth to keep moisture and humidity out. Our crawl space encapsulation process includes: Cleaning the crawl space Sealing and insulating the crawl space Installing a vapor barrier Installing a dehumidifier inside the crawl space Sealing and encapsulating your crawl space will not only stop condensation in your crawl space and get rid of moisture under your house, but it will also help keep humidity levels at an acceptable level throughout your entire home. Air Sealing & Insulation Air sealing stops outside air and humidity from being sucked into your home through air leaks in your attic and crawl space. Upgrading your air sealing and insulation will make your home more comfortable year round and help keep indoor humidity levels in check. Reduce Humidity in Your North Carolina Home Standard Insulating Company can help you control the humidity in your home with crawl space solutions, insulation, and air sealing. We’ve been serving homeowners in the greater Charlotte area for decades and we know how the high humidity we experience here can impact your home comfort and health. Our team is skilled in humidity control and will help you find the right solution to prevent excessive moisture and humidity in your home. Get rid of excessive indoor humidity. Call 704-333-5151 or contact us to schedule a free energy analysis. ### Does Floor Insulation Do More Harm Than Good? Are you thinking about installing new floor insulation in your home? Insulating in between your floor joists is one of the best ways to upgrade your home comfort and energy efficiency. Some homeowners worry that installing floor insulation will do more harm than good, but if the job is done well, you won’t see any drawbacks. Keep reading to learn more about the pros and cons of floor insulation and to find out whether your home would benefit from new floor insulation. Do You Need to Insulate Your Floors? Floor insulation helps control indoor temperatures by reducing the amount of heat that moves between the different floors in your home. You can insulate between every floor, but you don’t necessarily have to. The most important floor to insulate is the ground floor, especially if it is directly above an unconditioned basement or crawl space. Insulating your ground floor will help stop heat from escaping and entering your home through its lowest level, leading to greater comfort and less energy loss. Pros and Cons of Floor Insulation Installing floor insulation, especially inbetween your floor joists, has a lot of benefits for your home. However, there are some cons to installing floor insulation that you should be aware of before deciding to take on this home improvement project. The benefits of insulating your floors include: More comfortable and even temperatures throughout your entire home Warmer floors in the winter Less energy loss and lower heating and cooling bills Reduced draftiness throughout your home Better soundproofing between floors Insulating your floors can be a significant project. In most cases, the biggest con of floor insulation is the installation process. If you are only insulating your ground floor, this won’t be a major problem, but if you want to insulate between every floor, the process will be messier and more intrusive. What Is the Best Insulation for Between Floor Joists? When your insulating your floors, you want to focus on the areas in between the floor joists. These open areas are a prime location for insulation and insulating them will improve your home’s comfort and efficiency significantly. Whether you’re insulating between floors joists in your basement, your attic, or your second floor, the best material is fiberglass insulation. Fiberglass is a highly effective, affordable insulation material that can be found in millions of homes. In some cases, spray foam insulation may also be used to fill in small gaps and cracks. Get a Free Energy Analysis from the Best Insulation Company in Charlotte Not sure if your home would benefit from floor insulation? Want to learn more about the best insulation for your floor joists? Standard Insulating Company can help. We offer a free energy analysis to evaluate your home’s energy efficiency and determine where you would benefit from new insulation the most. We’ll work with you to find a solution that fits your budget and delivers the results you’re looking for, like lower energy costs and better home comfort. With many years of experience serving the Charlotte, North Carolina community, we are the company to call when you need new home insulation. Upgrade your home with new floor insulation. Call 704-333-5151 or contact us to schedule a free energy analysis. ### Are Radiant Barriers Worth It? (View as a downloadable PDF) Radiant barrier installation is one of the simplest and most effective ways to improve your home’s energy efficiency and save on energy bills. Here’s why radiant barriers are worth it for your Charlotte, NC home. Keep Your Home Cooler in the Summer Attic radiant barriers work by reflecting radiant heat away from your home in the summer, keeping your attic and the living spaces below it much cooler. Keep Your Home Warmer in the Winter During the colder months, radiant barriers reflect radiant heat back into your home, minimizing heat loss and keeping your house warm. Make Your House More Energy Efficient Radiant barriers significantly reduce the amount of heat entering and escaping your home. This stops energy waste and leads to a more energy efficient home. Save Money on Your Energy Bills How much do radiant barriers save? Studies show they can reduce cooling costs by up to 10%! How to Install Radiant Barriers Radiant barriers are typically installed on roof rafters and attic walls. They can be installed without disrupting existing insulation and will in fact make your existing attic insulation more effective. For the barrier to work properly, however, it needs to be installed correctly. It’s best to trust radiant barrier installation to a professional who can determine and implement the best installation method for your attic. Get the benefits of radiant barrier installation for your Charlotte, NC home. Call Standard Insulation Company at 704-333-5151 or contact us. ### Why Attic Insulation Isn't Only Important In the Winter Summer is fast approaching and you’re probably starting to think about how you can keep your home cool and comfortable once the heat sets in. You might have air conditioning, mini split heat pumps, and ceiling fans on your list, but there’s another important element you need to consider, and that’s attic insulation. Attic insulation helps with cooling and is just as important in the summer as it is in the winter. Keep reading to learn more about how attic insulation helps in the summer and why you should make sure your whole home’s insulation is in good shape during the warmer months. How Does Attic Insulation Work? Attic insulation works by slowing down the transfer of heat into and out of your home via your attic. In the winter, heat is constantly rising up into your attic, and trying to move outside where it’s colder. This is because heat naturally moves from warmer areas to colder ones. Attic insulation makes it harder for the heat to escape so your home stays warm when it’s cold outside. The same thing happens in the summer but in reverse—heat from the sun radiates down onto your roof and conducts into your attic as it tries to move toward the cooler temperature inside your home. Attic insulation prevents that heat from passing through your attic floor and into the living spaces below. Air Sealing Makes Your Attic Insulation More Effective Attic insulation makes a huge difference in home comfort and energy efficiency. But attic insulation can only stop conductive heat transfer; it cannot block heat that’s carried by air. In order for your attic insulation to work properly and protect your home against summer heat gain, you need to air seal it, too. Air sealing stops the free flow of air between your conditioned living spaces and your unconditioned attic. In the summer, it blocks hot air from flowing down into your home from your attic. To air seal an attic, spray foam is used to close up any openings that are letting air—and the heat it carries—pass through. Air sealing also stops air from traveling through your insulation, which can improve its performance and help it last longer. Summer Attic Insulation Benefits Wondering how much difference attic insulation makes? With new attic insulation from Standard Insulating Company, you can expect summer insulation benefits like: A cooler, more comfortable home Lower air conditioning costs Less energy waste Get rid of your hot second floor Attic insulation is important in the summer and in the winter, and with the right insulation, you’ll see benefits all year long. Standard Insulating Company can help you stay comfortable and save money on energy bills this summer with our attic insulation and air sealing services. We're the best insulation company in the Charlotte area, offering unmatched expertise and customer service. We offer a free energy analysis to figure out where your home is losing air conditioning and taking on heat so that we can make the most effective improvements Worried about high summer AC bills? Attic insulation can help! Call 704-333-5151 or contact us to learn more. ### What Is The Best Insulation for Attics? Installing attic insulation is a smart investment with many benefits for your home. With the right attic insulation, you can improve energy efficiency, keep your house more comfortable all year round, and save on your energy bills every month. To get the best performance and value from your insulation, however, you need to install the right material for your home’s design and needs. Keep reading to learn more about the best materials for attic insulation. What Is Insulation R-Value? When looking for the best attic insulation materials, it’s important to understand R-value. R-Value is a term that’s used to describe an insulation material’s ability to resist heat transfer. The higher the R-value, the more insulating power the material has. So, what R-value do you need for your attic? The best attic insulation R-value depends largely on climate. Here in the Charlotte, North Carolina area, R-38 is generally recommended. The Best Types of Attic Insulation R-value is a good measure of attic insulation performance. However, it’s not the only factor to consider when installing new attic insulation. All insulation materials have their pros and cons, and some materials are better suited to certain attic conditions than others. Standard Insulating Company can help you choose the right insulation material based on your specific home. We install high-quality attic insulation materials, including: Fiberglass Insulation Fiberglass is the most popular insulation material in the United States, and for good reason. Fiberglass is an affordable and highly effective insulation material that’s great for attics. It works by slowing down conductive heat transfer to hold heat inside your home during the winter and block it out during the summer. We can install blown-in fiberglass insulation or fiberglass batt insulation depending on where in the attic it’s being installed. Radiant Barrier Insulation Radiant barriers are a type of insulation that’s made of a highly reflective material, typically thin aluminum, that can be installed on roof rafters and attic walls. They work by reflecting radiant heat away from your home during the summer months, significantly reducing the amount of heat your home takes. Radiant barriers also work in the winter to reflect radiant heat back into your home as it tries to escape. Radiant barrier installation can be used to improve the performance of your existing insulation and is a great addition to your Charlotte home’s attic. The Go-To Attic Insulation Company in Charlotte, NC Standard Insulating Company is the local attic insulation company Charlotte, North Carolina homeowners trust. We’re dedicated to helping our customers make their homes as comfortable and energy efficient as possible with our attic insulation and air sealing services. Our team will talk to you about the problems your underinsulated attic could be causing, such as a hot second floor, inconsistent temperatures from one room to another, or high energy bills. Then, we’ll recommend the best attic insulation for your home and complete the installation. Our technicians are experienced professionals who will get the job done right while treating your home and family with the utmost respect. We take pride in offering the highest quality service around and will go above and beyond to ensure your satisfaction. Get the best attic insulation for your home. Call (704) 333-5151 or contact us to get a quote. ### What to Expect from an Encapsulated Crawl Space Crawl spaces can be the source of many problems in your home, from moisture intrusion and mold growth to energy loss and high utility bills. Crawl space encapsulation helps solve these problems and leaves you with a healthier, more energy efficient, and more durable home. Keep reading to learn more about crawl space encapsulation and what you can expect from this energy efficient home improvement project. What Is Crawl Space Encapsulation? Crawl space encapsulation seals your crawl space off from outside weather conditions, creating a controlled environment. The crawl space encapsulation process typically includes: Cleaning out old insulation and other debris Sealing and insulating your crawl space Installing a plastic vapor barrier Installing a crawl space dehumidifier At Standard Insulating Company, we start with a free energy analysis to determine where the efficiency problems in your home are stemming from and whether crawl space encapsulation is the right solution. Signs You Need Crawl Space Encapsulation Energy efficiency, comfort, and indoor air quality problems in your home can indicate a problem with your crawl space. If you’ve noticed any of the following, crawl space encapsulation could be the solution for your home: Mold and Moisture Issues Crawl spaces are a common location for air leaks in a home. Air carries moisture with it and if your crawl space is not sealed properly, this moisture will get inside your crawl space, leading to problems like mold growth and structural damage. Crawl space encapsulation helps fix air leaks in your house and prevents moisture intrusion. High Energy Bills Your crawl space can be a major source of energy waste in your home, letting cool air escape during the summer and sucking cold air in during the winter. If your energy bills are climbing, your leaky, uninsulated crawl space could be the problem. Bad Smells Moisture, mold, and pests in your crawl space can create an odor that permeates your entire home. If you’ve noticed a bad smell or musty odor in your house and aren’t sure where it’s coming from, it could be your crawl space. Benefits of Crawl Space Encapsulation Crawl space encapsulation is worth the price and will lead to many benefits that you’ll feel throughout your entire home, such as: Lower energy bills More comfortable and consistent temperatures Lower indoor humidity levels Less risk of mold growth Less risk of pest infestation A more durable home Healthier indoor air quality Get Your Crawl Space Encapsulation Done Right Standard Insulating Company offers professional crawl space encapsulation in the Charlotte, North Carolina area and can help you solve the problems you’re experiencing with your crawl space. We provide long-term comfort and energy savings for our customers and will help you find a crawl space solution that works for your home and budget. With many years of experience and a long list of satisfied customers, we’re the best crawl space repair company to call in Charlotte. Schedule crawl space encapsulation with Standard Insulating Company. Call 704-333-5151 or contact us online to get started. ### Why You Need Insulation and Air Sealing Why You Need Insulation & Air Sealing - Standard Insulating Company Insulation and air sealing work together to stop energy waste and save you money. Don’t make the mistake of installing one without the other! Call Standard Insulating Company today. We’re the best insulation and air sealing contractor in Charlotte, NC. ___________________________________________________________________________ Why You Need Insulation and Air Sealing An insulation update is a great way to improve your home's comfort and cut your energy costs. But in order for your insulation to work properly, you need to have air sealing, too. When installed together, basement and attic insulation and air sealing will help you: Save money on heating and cooling bills Keep your home more comfortable year-round Get rid of cold winter drafts Improve your indoor air quality Reduce your energy consumption How Does Insulation Work? According to the laws of thermodynamics, heat will always move from a warmer location to a colder one. This creates a major problem in your home—during the winter, heat from your furnace will always be trying to escape to the cold outside while in the summer, outside heat will want to make its way in, where your AC is keeping things cool. Insulation creates a barrier that slows this process, making it much easier for your heating and cooling system to maintain a stable indoor temperature. This will make your home more comfortable and reduce energy waste, helping you save money on energy bills. How Does Air Sealing Work? When homes are built, a lot of materials are joined together. These joining points are not perfect—small gaps are often left between them. Gaps are also created around plumbing and wire penetrations, recessed lighting, attic hatches, and many other locations. These gaps are called air leaks because they allow air to leak into and out of your home. Air sealing is the process of closing up air leaks. Spray foam is often used to air seal attics and basements. It’s sprayed into openings and expands to fill them in, creating a tight seal. For smaller air leaks, caulk is often used. How Do Insulation and Air Sealing Work Together? Insulation and air sealing address different forms of heat movement. Insulation slows down conductive heat transfer while air sealing blocks heat that’s being carried by air. Together, they protect your home against outside temperature influences and keep your heat and AC inside where you want it. In a house that’s insulated but not air sealed, heat will be carried into and out of the house via air leaks, significantly reducing the insulation’s effectiveness. If your home is leaking air, you’re not getting much value out of the insulation you’ve installed. Upgrade Your Home for Insulation and Air Sealing Savings Want to enjoy all the benefits of air sealing your attic? Standard Insulation Company is the air sealing contractor to call. We’re a dedicated, dependable insulation and air sealing company that has been serving Charlotte, NC homeowners for many years. We find affordable and effective ways to stop energy waste so you can save money and stay comfortable all year long. Our amazing staff goes the extra mile to make our customers happy and we’re not satisfied with our work until you are! Stop energy waste and save money! Call (704) 333-5151 or contact us to learn more about insulation and air sealing services. ### How Radiant Barriers Can Increase Home Efficiency Radiant barriers are a highly effective energy efficiency upgrade that can make your home more comfortable and help you save energy. But the science behind radiant barriers is often misunderstood, and many homeowners wonder whether an attic radiant barrier is worth it. Standard Insulating Company is here to help you understand how radiant barriers work and how you can make your home more energy efficient with a radiant barrier! Radiant Barriers vs Insulation: What’s the Difference? Insulation and radiant barriers both work to keep your home comfortable and reduce your energy costs. But they do so in different ways. Insulation Slows Conductive Heat Transfer The attic insulation materials that most homeowners are familiar with, like fiberglass batts, work by slowing down conductive heat transfer. Much of the heat that enters your home in the summer and escapes in the winter does so through conductive heat transfer. But heat also travels by radiation, and fiberglass insulation cannot stop this type of heat movement. That’s where radiant barriers come in. Attic Radiant Barriers Reflect Radiant Heat A radiant barrier is a type of insulation that’s made out of a highly reflective material, like aluminum. When the sun heats up your roof during the summer, that heat will re-radiate from your roof down into your attic. As your attic warms up, your house does too. Radiant barriers reflect radiant heat, sending it back where it came from so your attic and home stay cooler. Radiant barriers stop heat accumulation in your home, which makes them most effective in the summer. But radiant barriers help in the winter, too, and will make your home more comfortable all year round. Radiant Barrier Installation Has Year-Round Benefits Installing a radiant barrier between rafters or on your attic walls will help make your existing insulation more effective by addressing the type of heat transfer it can’t control. By installing a radiant barrier, you can: Reduce your energy costs Keep your home significantly cooler in the summer Help your home stay warmer in the winter Make your existing attic insulation more effective Minimize energy usage and waste Installation Affects Radiant Barrier Effectiveness—Trust the Experts at Standard Insulating Company When installed correctly, a radiant barrier can significantly improve your home’s energy efficiency rating. Standard Insulating Company is a professional radiant barrier installer, and we use proven installation techniques to ensure optimal performance and efficiency. With us, radiant barrier installation is fast, easy, and will not hurt your roof. Have questions about radiant barriers and the energy savings they offer? Standard Insulating Company is here to help. Call us today to learn more about the benefits of radiant barriers and how installing one can make your house more energy efficient. Save energy and money. Call (704) 333-5151 or contact us to schedule radiant barrier installation for your Charlotte home. ### Negative Effects of a Poorly Cared for Crawl Space ### What to Expect When Insulating Walls in an Old House Living in an older Charlotte home often means dealing with beautiful architecture… and drafty, uneven temperatures. Whether you’re in a 1940s bungalow in Dilworth or a turn-of-the-century craftsman near Plaza Midwood, outdated wall insulation—or none at all—can make your home uncomfortable and inefficient. At Standard Insulating Company, we specialize in retrofitting insulation for old and historic homes across the Charlotte region. The good news? You don’t have to gut your walls to get the benefits of modern insulation. With the right approach, you can improve comfort, reduce energy bills, and preserve your home’s original charm. Why Wall Insulation Matters in Older Homes Many homes built before the 1980s were constructed with little to no insulation in the exterior walls. In some cases, homes relied solely on plaster, lath, or basic sheathing to buffer Charlotte’s temperature swings. Your walls leak heat in winter and absorb heat in summer. You might feel cold drafts near exterior walls or rooms that are always hotter than others. Heating and cooling systems have to work harder to keep up. Proper wall insulation acts like a thermal blanket for your entire home—especially important in Charlotte’s hot, humid summers and chilly winter mornings. Signs Your Old Walls Need Insulation Rooms that are consistently too hot or too cold Cold walls during winter Musty smells or visible drafts near outlets High energy bills even after HVAC upgrades If your home was built before 1980 and hasn’t had an insulation retrofit, odds are good your walls are underperforming. How We Insulate Old Walls Without Tearing Them Out You don’t need to demo your interior. We use injection techniques that allow us to insulate your walls from the outside, with minimal disruption. Our process: Inspection: We identify cavities that are empty or under-insulated. Small Access Points: We remove a row of siding or cut small holes in interior drywall or plaster (depending on the situation). Dense-Pack Cellulose or Fiberglass Injection: Material is blown into the wall cavity using special equipment that fills gaps and voids without settling over time. Sealing and Patching: We restore wall surfaces, matching finishes and preserving aesthetics. In most cases, the work is done in a day or two, and your home looks untouched—but feels totally different. Best Insulation Materials for Older Charlotte Homes We choose materials that balance performance with moisture control—critical in Charlotte’s humid climate. Dense-Pack Cellulose: Great for filling irregular wall cavities. Treated with fire- and mold-resistant borates. Blown-In Fiberglass: Non-settling, air-permeable option for dry wall systems. Closed-Cell Spray Foam (select cases only): Excellent for sealing small access panels or crawl walls where vapor and air control is critical. We never recommend traditional batt insulation for wall retrofits—it can sag, leave gaps, and doesn’t perform well in enclosed spaces. What About Historic Homes? If you own a historic home in Charlotte, we understand the added care and code compliance needed. Our team: Avoids damage to original woodwork or plaster Matches siding when drilling from the exterior Coordinates with historic commissions if required We help homeowners stay true to their home's era while dramatically improving energy performance. How Much Can You Save? According to the U.S. Department of Energy, insulating walls, attics, and floors in an under-insulated home can cut heating and cooling costs by up to 15%. In our experience, many Charlotte homeowners with uninsulated walls see: Utility bills drop by $200–$500/year Rooms that no longer feel like saunas or refrigerators Reduced wear on HVAC systems, extending equipment life Don’t Forget Air Sealing Wall insulation works best when paired with proper air sealing. We look for: Gaps around window frames and baseboards Electrical outlet penetrations Plumbing and wiring holes Stopping these leaks ensures your new insulation delivers maximum value. Free Energy Analysis for a Smarter Home Unlock an energy efficient home with a FREE energy analysis. We listen to your concerns, audit your home’s efficiency with advanced tools and share a report with actionable solutions for cost savings and rebates you qualify for. This free service provides clear insights without any commitment. Schedule Today ### Is Your Bonus Room Too Uncomfortable to Use? Taking advantage of a “bonus room” like an extra room above the garage or unused storage space in your attic is a great way to maximize the amount of space you have in your North Carolina home. But in order for a bonus room to act as a real living space, it needs to be comfortable. If it gets freezing cold in your bonus room during the winter, you may have given up on turning it into a guest room or your home office. But there are ways to solve this problem, and Standard Insulating Company can help. What’s Making Your Bonus Room So Uncomfortable? Most bonus rooms are in renovated spaces like an attic or basement, or they’re part of a home addition. A lot of the time, contractors will try to save money by cutting back on the amount of insulation they install during these types of projects (if they include any at all). Homeowners who take on DIY renovation projects also tend to overlook insulation, or they don’t know how to install it correctly. As a result, bonus rooms are often under-insulated. Without proper home insulation and air sealing, it’s almost impossible to keep a room comfortable, especially on very cold days. Insulation works by slowing down the transfer of heat, which means it stops the heat that’s inside your home from conducting through your walls, floors, and ceilings and out of your home. Without enough insulation, heat from your home will constantly escape. Not only does this lead to serious comfort issues, but it can also drive up your energy bills! Find Out If Your Bonus Room Is Underinsulated Your home works as a system, and a problem in your bonus room could very likely be caused by an issue in another part of your home, like a lack of attic insulation or missing floor insulation. Standard Insulating Company can find out exactly what’s making your bonus room so uncomfortable with a free home performance audit. During this assessment we will: Discuss your specific home comfort concerns Inspect your existing home insulation Look for any openings that are letting outside air into your home Recommend upgrades to improve your home comfort Our auditors are highly experienced professionals who use high-tech diagnostic tools like thermal imaging cameras to collect data about your home’s performance. We never rely on guesswork alone, and you’ll see real improvements after you’ve implemented our recommendations. Get Help from an Experienced Insulation Contractor in NC Standard Insulating Company has been a trusted Charlotte insulation company for many years. We can help make your bonus room more comfortable so that you can enjoy it all winter long. We are the NC spray foam insulation company to call for everything from attic insulation to crawl space insulation, floor insulation, basement insulation, and more. Our team works quickly and efficiently, minimizing disruption to your home life, and we never leave a mess behind. Keep your bonus room comfortable all year long. Call (704) 333-5151 or contact us to learn more about our insulation services. ### What An Energy Audit Can Tell You About Your Home (View as a downloadable PDF version) A free energy audit from Standard Insulating Company will show you how your Charlotte, NC home uses energy and where it’s being wasted so that you can make targeted home performance upgrades. Your energy assessment will include our recommendations for strategic improvements that will help you save energy and create a more energy efficient home. Insulation Insulation creates a barrier that slows heat transfer, keeping heat in during the winter and out during the summer. Attic Insulation Most winter heat loss happens in the attic. Attic insulation stops heat from rising up into your attic and out of your home. Wall Insulation Adding insulation to your wall cavities will make it easier for your home to contain heat. Wall insulation can also stop outside noise from getting in and make your home quieter. Floor Insulation Insulating the floors above your basement or crawl space will eliminate that cold floor feeling and make your entire home more comfortable. Air Sealing Sealing up gaps and cracks around windows, doors, plumbing penetrations, and other unintentional openings will prevent cold drafts and help your insulation work better, leading to a more comfortable, energy-efficient home. Insulation Removal Dirty, wet, and damaged insulation doesn’t slow heat transfer effectively and it can also hurt your indoor air quality. Removing ineffective insulation is an important part of your insulation upgrade. Radiant Barriers Radiant barriers are usually installed on roof rafters and attic walls. They reflect radiant heat and can reduce radiant energy transfer by as much as 97 percent. Crawl Space Solutions Crawl spaces often account for about 15% of a home’s heat loss! Insulating from the foundation up will help keep your home comfortable and your utility bills low. Crawl Space Encapsulation Crawl space encapsulation protects against moisture, pests, and mold in addition to heat transfer to keep your home healthy, dry, and comfortable. Stop wasting energy and start saving money! Call (704) 333-5151 or contact us to schedule a free energy audit. ### What Does It Mean When You Start Seeing Spider Webs in Your Home? Plastic spiders and faux webs are a sure sign that Halloween is coming! But what does it mean when you start seeing real spider webs around your Charlotte, North Carolina home? Spider webs in your home aren’t just spooky—they’re a sign that you need better air sealing and insulation. Spiders like to build webs around air leaks, where the airflow makes it easier to catch insects. You may not love finding these creepy crawlers in your home, but spiders can be a huge help when it comes to locating air leaks. What Are Air Leaks? Very few homes are airtight—most are full of small gaps, cracks, and openings, called air leaks. These openings can be anywhere between your home and the outdoors and between conditioned indoor spaces and unconditioned spaces, like the attic or crawl space. They’re commonly found around windows and doors, attic hatches, plumbing vents, recessed lighting, wiring holes, flues, and basement rim joists. Air leaks make your home vulnerable to air infiltration, moisture, and pests, so it’s important to find and seal air leaks. Air sealing makes your insulation more effective and leads to greater home comfort, health, and energy efficiency. Signs You Need Air Sealing in Your House Spiders are like nature’s own energy auditors—they can show you exactly where the air leaks are in your home. But spider webs aren’t the only sign that your house needs air sealing. You should also be on the lookout for: Drafty hallways or rooms Rooms that are too hot in the summer or too cold in the winter Overworked heating and cooling equipment Increased energy bills Excess dust and allergy symptoms Moldy or musty smells, especially in the basement What Are the Benefits of Home Insulation and Air Sealing? Insulation and air sealing work better together. This is because insulation stops heat transfer, and air sealing stops air intrusion. Together, they’ll keep unwanted heat, hot air, and humidity out of your home in the summer, and trap heat inside during the winter. Air sealing also helps keep your insulation clean and dry by blocking air that would otherwise travel through it. Air carries moisture and pollutants with it, which can get trapped inside your insulation if your home isn’t air sealed. Wet insulation is significantly less effective and it can also harbor mold. Proper insulation and air sealing lead to: A more comfortable home Better indoor air quality Less heat loss and energy waste Lower energy costs Standard Insulating Company is Charlotte’s Go-To Local Insulation and Air Sealing Company Have questions about pests and air sealing or pests and insulation? Want to improve your home’s comfort, energy efficiency, and health? Standard Insulating Company is here to help. We’ve been in business since 1945 and are one of the most experienced insulation contractors in Charlotte, NC. Whether you know exactly where your home needs better insulation and air sealing (thank you, spider friends) or you know there’s a problem but you’re not sure where it’s stemming from, our team can help. We offer a free energy analysis to help you understand how your home works and where it’s losing energy. Get rid of spider webs! Schedule air sealing today. Call 704-333-5151 or contact us to get started. ### How to Remove Energy Vampires from Your Home Wooden stakes. Wreaths of garlic. Sunlight. This Halloween, you might be spending a little bit of extra time thinking about the best way to keep vampires at bay in your home (especially if you’ve just finished watching a scary movie). But did you know there’s another kind of vampire that could be lurking in the shadows of your house? That’s right, they’re called ENERGY vampires, and while the pungent smell of garlic cloves will do little to keep this type of monster at bay, the energy inefficiency professionals at Standard Insulating Company are here to share a few tips essential to your survival this October season. What Are the Different Kinds of Energy Vampires in Your Home? Air leaks Holes and cracks in your home’s exterior and thermal boundaries aren’t just the source of eerie sounds on a windy night—they’re also one of the worst ways that energy vampires can suck the energy out of your home! Air leaks are commonly found around windows, recessed lighting fixtures, outlets, holes that electricians or cable companies have drilled, and plumbing fixtures, and they’re one of the main causes of terrifyingly high energy bills. Underperforming insulation There are a few ways that energy vampires can prey on your home’s insulation, including: Insufficient insulation Insulation that’s been ruined by moisture, animal waste, or compression Old insulation Gaps in your insulation Insulation slows the transfer of heat in and out of your home, but when your home isn’t properly insulated, you’re basically inviting energy vampires into your house to wreak havoc on your energy efficiency. An incorrectly sized or malfunctioning HVAC system Furnaces, central AC units, or heat pumps that are too big or too small for your home will waste lots of energy by running too often or short cycling and incurring unnecessary wear and tear. It’s also important to keep your heating and cooling system well maintained or it will run inefficiently, costing you money in added energy costs. Electronic devices on ‘standby mode’ Did you know that many appliances and electronic devices continue to consume power even after you’ve turned them off? That’s right—you’d be surprised at how much extra money you’re spending every year just because your TV, cable box, adapters, and only devices are left plugged into the wall! How to Save Energy and Send Energy Vampires Back to their Coffins Energy vampires can be just as scary as their mythological counterparts, but if you’re having nightmares about your next energy bill, Standard Insulating Company is ready to put the nail in the coffin with our comprehensive list of energy-vampire-killing home performance services! By removing any old or damaged insulation, air sealing to close up holes and gaps, and properly installing new insulation in your attic, walls, or basement, you can keep the worst energy vampires out of your home year-round, letting you turn your attention to smaller issues like phantom power waste. And in a well-insulated and air sealed home, your heating and cooling system doesn’t need to run as often to keep your family comfortable, letting your family benefit from more even indoor temperatures and lower energy bills! Schedule a Free Energy Analysis for a More Energy Efficient Home If you’re wondering if your friend or relative has turned into an unholy creature of the night, you check their neck for fang marks. But if you’re wondering if your home could be suffering from energy vampires, you schedule a free energy analysis from Standard Insulating Company! With our analysis, one of Standard Insulating’s home performance experts will inspect and run tests to see if and where there are air leaks and insulation issues in your house. We’ll then sit down with you to review our findings and offer our best recommendations for how you can improve your indoor comfort, lower heating and cooling costs, and bid adieu to the energy efficiency issues haunting your Charlotte, NC area home. Plus, you could even qualify for up to $250 in rebates from Duke Energy! Don’t let energy vampires keep you up at night. Call (704) 333-5151 or contact us today and schedule your free energy analysis. ### Check Your Home for These Problem Areas Before Winter It’s starting to get chilly here in North Carolina, and that means it’s time for winter home prep! One of the best things you can do to prepare your Charlotte home for winter is to evaluate your insulation levels and make any necessary adjustments. Under insulated areas and areas that have wet or damaged insulation will have a major impact on your home comfort this winter, and it’s important to address these issues before the cold sets in. Signs of Poor Insulation in a House Insulation is usually hidden away inside walls and under floors, making it difficult to visually inspect your insulation over time. But there are plenty of non-visual signs that your home needs better insulation, such as: Inconsistent temperatures between rooms Drafts Ice dams forming on your roof Abnormally high heating bills Cold floors If you were dealing with any of these problems last winter, it’s time to address the underlying insulation issues in your home. Common Insulation Problem Areas in North Carolina Homes When you’re making your winter preparation checklist, make sure you include these areas: Attic Insulation A lot of the heat that escapes your home in the winter does so through the attic. Not only can this result in a cold and uncomfortable home, but it can also lead to ice dams. Ice dams form when heat from your attic warms your roof, causing snow to melt. That melted snow then flows down your roof, refreezes, and creates a dam, blocking future snowmelt from draining away from your home and leading to all kinds of moisture problems. Installing the proper type and amount of attic insulation will help prevent ice dams from forming and keep your home warmer. Crawl Space Insulation An underinsulated crawl space can cause myriad problems throughout your home during the winter, like uncomfortable temperatures, high energy bills, and cold floors. Insulating your crawl space will help prevent these issues. Crawl space encapsulation can also keep unwanted moisture out of your home, reducing the risk of mold and mildew growth and leading to healthier indoor air. Floor Insulation Insulating the floors above your basement or crawl space is also important when it comes to winter comfort. Floor insulation will help stop heat transfer between your home and your basement or crawl space, helping to keep the heat inside your home where you want it and preventing energy waste. Find Out Where Your Home Needs New Insulation With a Free Energy Analysis Not sure whether your home is lacking insulation? An energy audit can tell you. An energy audit is a comprehensive evaluation of your home’s energy efficiency. Insulation levels, air transfer, and many other factors are taken into account during your audit to determine where your home is losing heat and the most effective way to stop it. Standard Insulating Company offers free energy analysis to Charlotte homeowners. We can investigate the issues you’re experiencing with your home’s energy efficiency and comfort and recommend the best solution, like attic and wall insulation, air sealing, or crawl space insulation. We’re proud to be the insulation contractors Charlotte, NC homeowners trust and are here to help with all of your home energy needs. Free Energy Analysis for a Smarter Home Unlock an energy efficient home with a FREE energy analysis. We listen to your concerns, audit your home’s efficiency with advanced tools and share a report with actionable solutions for cost savings and rebates you qualify for. This free service provides clear insights without any commitment. Schedule Today ### What Happens in an Under-Insulated Crawl Space? If you’re like most homeowners, you don’t think about your crawl space very often, but that doesn’t mean you can forget about it entirely. The state of your crawl space impacts your entire home, and if your crawl space is under-insulated, you’ll feel the effects in your living spaces. An Under-Insulated Crawl Space Will Make Your Home Uncomfortable Without the proper amount of insulation, heat moves quickly between your living spaces and your crawl space. Here in the Charlotte, NC area, that means cold coming up through your floors during the winter and heat seeping in during the summer. Your HVAC system will have to work hard to compensate for the constant influx of heat or cold, which can drive your energy bills up significantly. But that isn’t the only problem with an under-insulated, unsealed crawl space. Crawl spaces are often damp environments that play host to dust, dirt, pollen, mold, mildew, and even pests like insects and rodents. If your crawl space is not air sealed, these pollutants can move through gaps and cracks in your home’s construction—called air leaks—and infiltrate your living spaces. Moisture can also travel through these openings, wreaking havoc on your home’s building materials, damaging your belongings, and encouraging mold growth. Should You Insulate the Floor Above Your Crawl Space? Insulating the floor above your crawl space is one of the best things you can do to improve and stabilize your home comfort and energy efficiency. The right insulation will eliminate that cold floor feeling during the winter, help you avoid frozen pipes, and keep your home more comfortable all year long. Does an Encapsulated Crawl Space Need Insulation? Crawlspace encapsulation helps solve moisture issues, but it doesn’t help with heat transfer. To provide the best protection for your home, your crawl space needs to be insulated and encapsulated. Here at Standard Insulating Company, our comprehensive crawl space encapsulation process includes air sealing and insulating, installing a dehumidifier to discourage condensation and mold growth, and installing a plastic barrier to protect your new insulation against moisture and pests. Find the Right Crawl Space Solution for Your Charlotte, NC Home If you’re worried about heat, cold, and moisture coming in through your crawl space, reach out to the crawl space encapsulation experts at Standard Insulating Company. We offer professional crawl space encapsulation and insulation services and can recommend the right solution for your home. If you’re not sure whether your crawl space is to blame for your home comfort and energy efficiency issues, start with our free energy analysis. This comprehensive assessment will help us uncover the root of your home performance problems so that we can implement the best solution. Schedule crawl space insulating services with the experts at Standard Insulating Company. Call (704) 333-5151 or contact us here to get started. ### How Radiant Barriers Can Improve Your Home's Comfort and Value   Do you struggle with a hot attic in the warm spring and summer months and wondering if you need a radiant barrier? In our warm Charlotte climate, homeowners with lots of sun exposure get frustrated with the toll the temperatures take not only on the comfort of their home, but also the impact this extreme heat can have on the efficiency and lifespan of their cooling systems. The secret to significantly reducing the effects of radiant heat on your home? An easily installed radiant barrier in your attic. How Do Radiant Barriers Work? Radiant barriers can be made in a variety of reflective insulation products that resemble thick aluminum foil. When installed properly, radiant barriers can significantly reduce radiant heat infiltration from the sun’s rays, cooling the attic floor above your home’s bedrooms (or other second-story living spaces), and functioning as a cost-effective solution to lowering the energy costs for your home’s cooling system. What are the Benefits of Professionally-installed Radiant Barriers? To achieve maximum efficiency and value, radiant barriers must be installed to include an air gap between it and your roof. These also need to be installed in a manner that will ensure minimal (if any) dust accumulation. Our team at Standard Insulating Company is professionally trained to install the perfect custom radiant barrier for your home so you can reap the rewards: Improve AC efficiency by up to 50% Major reduction in utility bill costs Increase the value of your home Qualify for federal and local tax credits Radiant barriers can reduce your attic temperature by up to 30 degrees in the summer Boost the efficiency of your existing insulation Schedule a Free Energy Assessment Unsure if insulating with a radiant barrier is right for your home? The experts at Standard Insulating Company offer free Energy Assessments to provide you with a comprehensive overview of your home’s systems, so you can make the best decisions about how to reduce heat infiltration in your house. We’re proud to support our neighbors with services to improve the comfort and efficiency of their homes, like insulation removal, attic insulation, air sealing, crawl space solutions, and more. Improve the comfort and efficiency of your home with radiant barriers. Call 704-333-5151 or contact us online today. ### What to Do about Tiny Cracks in Your Attic or Crawlspace Noticing tiny cracks appearing in the attic or crawlspace of your home? While this is usually normal (especially in older or historic homes!), cracks leak air to the outdoors and make your home less energy efficient. Luckily, the experts at Standard Insulation Company are here to help you eliminate air leaks in your Charlotte, NC home! Common signs of cracks causing air leaks include drafty rooms or increasing energy bills. Cold floors over your crawlspace and hot upstairs bedrooms can also indicate that your home’s attic and crawlspace air sealing and insulation are insufficient. Let’s learn more about air sealing an existing home from the Standard Insulating Company pros. What is Air Sealing, Exactly? Air sealing is the process of sealing gaps that present opportunities for air to move into or out of your home. This process improves the efficiency, health, and comfort of your residence. When a technician is air sealing your home, they will check all the areas of your attic or crawlspace for seal integrity and fill any areas which are allowing air to come and go. We often use high-expansion insulating spray foam or other caulking and sealing products to ensure the best fit for each site. Attic Insulation Air loss and heat transfer in the attic is incredibly common because attic air leaks tend to go unnoticed or unmanaged for longer stretches of time. Attics are typically used as storage space, so a hot or cold attic doesn’t impact your home’s comfort in an obvious way. That said, the temperature of your attic has a greater influence on your home’s efficiency and comfort than most homeowners realize. Our variety of attic-focused services can make an enormous difference for your whole home. Did you know that radiant barriers can reduce the emittance of radiant energy by 97%?! We are proud to offer attic insulation, air sealing for attics, and radiant barriers to improve your at-home experience. Air Sealing & Insulation: Better Together! Air sealing services are typically paired with insulation projects because while eliminating cracks and gaps through air sealing can decrease your utility costs by 10% alone, adding insulation too saves the average homeowner an additional 20%! As trained experts, the team at Standard Insulation Company has seen the difference before and after the addition of air sealing and insulation, and our customer reviews speak volumes about our professionalism and dependability. We’re confident that you’ll be pleased with your results. Boost your home’s comfort and efficiency by adding air sealing. Call the pros for help at 704-333-5151, or schedule a free energy analysis online today! ### Does Humidity Affect Mold Growth? High indoor humidity can make your home an uncomfortable place to live, but that isn’t the only problem with indoor humidity—high humidity in a home can cause mold and mildew growth, too. Mold and mildew thrive in warm, wet places, and high humidity levels create the perfect conditions for them to grow. Once mold and mildew have taken root in your home, they can cause an endless array of problems. In addition to eating away at building materials, mold spores can hurt your home’s indoor air quality and make your family feel sick with symptoms like: Congestion Coughing and sneezing Red, itchy eyes and skin Dizziness Sore throat Poor indoor air quality is especially harmful to people who have existing respiratory conditions like asthma and can make their symptoms much worse. How to Prevent Mold in a Humid Climate It can get pretty humid during the summer in Charlotte, North Carolina, and when that humidity gets inside your home and makes contact with cold surfaces, it will condense into water. Mold and mildew need a water source in order to grow, and preventing moisture accumulation is an important step in keeping mold and mildew out of your home. Here are three things you can do to keep your Charlotte home dry and mold-free: Encapsulate Your Crawl Space Have you noticed signs of mold in your crawl space? When there’s moisture in the crawl space under your house, mold and mildew are likely to grow. Crawl space encapsulation will help keep your crawl space dry and humidity-free, making it harder for mold and mildew to grow. Seal Up Air Leaks Very few homes are airtight—most are full of small gaps and cracks called air leaks. Humid outside air can infiltrate your home through these openings, bringing moisture into your home. Air sealing is the process of locating and filling in these openings to keep unwanted outside air and moisture out of your home. This helps prevent mold growth, and will also stop conditioned air from escaping your living spaces, leading to a more comfortable home overall. Upgrade Your Insulation When your insulation gets wet, mold is likely to grow inside it. If this has happened in your home, insulation removal will be necessary to stop mold from spreading. Having the right type and amount of insulation installed throughout your home will also help regulate interior temperatures and inhibit new mold growth. Find Out What Services Your Home Needs With a Free Energy Analysis If you’ve noticed high humidity levels or signs of mold in your home, but you’re not sure what’s causing them, reach out to Standard Insulating Company. We can conduct a free energy analysis to analyze your home and find out how moisture is getting in. Then, we can recommend the best solution to control humidity and inhibit mold growth. We’ve been helping homeowners throughout the Charlotte, NC area improve their home health and comfort for many years, and you can trust our friendly and knowledgeable team to get the job done right. Solve humidity problems in your Charlotte, NC home with help from the pros at Standard Insulation Company. Call (704) 333-5151 or contact us online to learn more. ### What Can I Do About the Water in My Crawl Space? If you’ve noticed increased water or dampness in your crawl space, it's a good time to address this area of the home that is most often out of sight, out of mind. Ignoring your damp crawl space can affect your home’s structural integrity and efficiency, as well as cause health problems.. The crawl space experts at Standard Insulating Company can take on your yucky, damp crawl space and improve your Charlotte NC home’s comfort and health! Where Does the Water Come From? Springtime is usually when excess moisture in the crawl space becomes more apparent. In fact, many crawl spaces become wet during the spring because of increased rain and ground water seeping into the area under your home. Another potential source of dampness is leaky plumbing — pipes, fixtures, and drains can all spring leaks that deposit water into your crawl space. Crawl spaces in our area, including Gastonia, Rock Hill, Mooresville, and Concord, were originally designed to allow air to flow freely under houses, and as a result, water can often enter the crawl space easily. What’s the Answer to Water in My Crawl Space? The crawl space experts at Standard Insulating Company offer complete services to identify the source of water under your home and fix the problem. Installing French drains and redirecting rainwater away from the house foundation can reduce water seepage. Repairing leaks in plumbing fixtures is also recommended prior to crawl space work. Next Step: Crawl Space Encapsulation Once the source of water and moisture is solved, it’s time for crawl space encapsulation. Encapsulating your crawl space offers many benefits including: Energy savings Reduced allergens and mold Pest protection Cleaner, safer indoor air quality Humidity and moisture control Improved comfort year-round What is Crawl Space Encapsulation? Standard insulating Company has the professional team and expertise to transform your damp crawl space into a dry, well insulated space that will keep your home free of dampness, mildew, and unhealthy pests. Our crew will arrive and clear out any remaining debris and pests. The underside of your home’s floors will be air sealed and then insulated with top quality Owens Corning fiberglass insulation, taking care to wrap pipes and ductwork that are routed through the crawl space. To prevent ongoing moisture build-up from condensation, Standard Insulating Company’s technicians will install a dehumidifier. The final step is to install a clean plastic barrier with sealed seams on all crawl space surfaces to ensure a dry environment. Improve Your Charlotte NC Home Indoor Air Quality One key to keeping your family healthy is to ensure your home’s indoor air quality is healthy. Because crawl space encapsulation provides air sealing and insulates the area beneath your home, you’ll eliminate musty odors, mold, and mildew that can originate in your unprotected crawl space. Qualify for Incentives and Attractive Financing Often Concord and Mooresville NC homeowners opt for a free energy analysis from the efficiency experts at Standard Insulating Company. This service identifies the best solutions for insulation upgrades throughout the house to ensure a healthy and comfortable family refuge. Through state and local utility incentives and rebates, Charlotte NC area homeowners can take advantage of valuable programs to reduce the upfront investment required for improving home insulation and crawl space encapsulation. Eliminate musty smells and damaging water problems in your crawl space with our crawl space encapsulation services! Call or contact us today to learn more. ### Is Crawl Space Encapsulation Worth the Cost? There are so many projects on your home to-do list, but not enough money (or time) to tackle them all. The average North Carolinian has to pick and choose their home improvement upgrades wisely and create a list of priorities that will help guide them on their quest to make their home a better place to live and raise a family. Where does crawl space encapsulation fit on your list? Is it a good idea to encapsulate a crawl space? Let’s weigh the pros and cons of sealing up and protecting the bottom parts of your home to see if there’s more than meets the eye (both figuratively and literally) to this kind of home improvement work. Benefit #1: Improved Home Comfort and Lower Energy Costs In many North Carolina homes, energy loss is concentrated at the very top and the very bottom. Most homeowners have a general understanding that it’s important to have attic insulation, for example, but fewer pay attention to their basements or crawl spaces, leading to higher energy bills and uncomfortable, uneven indoor temperatures. With upgraded air sealing and insulation, encapsulating your crawl space helps prevent heat and air movement in and out of your home. This helps keep indoor temperatures more consistent and reduces the stress on your HVAC system. You’ll save money on fuel and electricity costs to heat and cool your home, and you’ll feel the difference in a more comfortable home. Benefit #2: Safer, Healthier Indoor Air But crawl space encapsulation isn’t just air sealing and insulation. The third key component is moisture and humidity control, accomplished by the installation of a dehumidifier and a vapor barrier: a thick plastic lining that keeps moisture, pests, and other undesirable elements out of your crawl space. With these upgrades in place, you can avoid harmful mold growth in your crawl space as well as animal waste and unpleasant odors, all of which can create unhealthy air issues throughout the rest of your home. Encapsulating your crawl space creates a more comfortable and healthier indoor environment for your family, and since crawl space encapsulation lasts for at least 10-15 years, you’ll be protecting your home for a long time to come. Benefit #3: Increased Home Value Energy efficiency is becoming more and more of a priority for homebuyers, and crawl space encapsulation offers peace of mind to new homeowners that their home will be: More comfortable More energy efficient (lower monthly energy bills) Healthier At a lower risk of mold and moisture problems Plus, homes with encapsulated crawl spaces reduce the chance that expensive or inconvenient crawl space repair will be needed down the road. Crawl space encapsulation increases your home’s value because it offers long-term benefits that homeowners can take advantage of for years to come. Con: It’s Not a Flashy Upgrade We get it—it can be hard to choose between new kitchen countertops and home performance work like insulation upgrades or crawl space encapsulation. The reality is that you spend very little time in your crawl space, and once it’s encapsulated and taken care of, you’ll likely think about it even less. But that can be a good thing! As you can see above, there are so many more benefits in home improvements than just visual appeal. And, unlike a kitchen makeover, you’ll see the benefits of crawl space work throughout your entire home, year-round. Standard Insulating: Your Charlotte Crawl Space Encapsulation Experts A properly encapsulated crawl space works on several levels, reducing pest infestations, excess moisture levels, mold and mildew problems, and more. Installing vapor barriers and insulation is one of the best ways to improve the overall comfort and energy efficiency of your home. Could your Charlotte-area home benefit from crawl space encapsulation services? Call Standard Insulating Company today and tell us more about the issues you’re experiencing in your house. We often recommend starting with a free energy analysis that helps us (and you) get a better understanding of your home and where upgrades are most needed. Then, we’ll sit down to discuss our findings, give you our recommendations for the services that are best for your home, and explain the rebates and financing options that can help make your home improvement projects a reality today. When it comes to upgrading your home, don’t forget about your crawl space. Call (704) 333-5151 or contact us today to learn more about Standard Insulating’s crawl space encapsulation services. ### Why Am I Seeing Condensation in My Attic? So, you ventured upstairs to your attic for the first time in a few months. That’s okay—it’s kind of cold and unpleasant up there in the winter anyway. You were just looking for a box to take out of storage, but lo and behold, you found something you weren’t looking for—and definitely aren’t happy to find: condensation (or maybe even frost) on the underside of your attic rafters. Is this a problem you should be concerned about? Do you have a leak in your roof? Before you call a roofer for an expensive quote, here’s what you should know about how condensation can form in your attic, why it can lead to harmful fungal growth, and what you can do about it. What Causes Attic Condensation? The most common reason for condensation in your attic isn’t roof leaks—it’s poor attic insulation and a lack of air sealing. The reason for this is pretty simple: the air in your Charlotte-area home is warm during colder months because your heating system is running. The outdoor air, however, is much colder. When air leaks allow warm air to escape the living spaces in your home (or when poor insulation allows heat to transfer through your ceiling and warm your attic air), it runs into colder air. And when hot air meets cold air, condensation occurs. If the temperatures are low enough, that condensation can eventually freeze, leading to frost. Or, the condensation in your attic can lead to fungal growth and unhealthy breathing air in your house. Either way, you’ll want to find a way to get the moisture out of your attic. How Do I Prevent Attic Condensation? With proper insulation and air sealing, you can slow the transfer of heat and air in and out of your home, helping to avoid the clash of hot and cold that is currently creating moisture in your attic. Insulation and air sealing go hand in hand—many insulation materials aren’t as effective if exposed to moving air, and closing up air leaks alone won’t do much to prevent the transfer of heat through the building materials that make up your home. The two work best together! The older your North Carolina home is, the more likely it could use an attic insulation upgrade—building science has come a long way in recent years, and it’s quite possible that there was never enough insulation installed in your home to begin with, or that over time, moisture or animals have ruined your existing insulation. Schedule Your Free Energy Analysis with Standard Insulating Today The best way to confirm that the condensation in your attic is related to issues with your insulation and air sealing is by calling Standard Insulating Company to book a free energy assessment with our team. We’ll get up in your attic to inspect and measure your insulation levels, and check other areas of your house as well, like your basement or crawl space. After your assessment, we’ll be able to recommend the best home improvement upgrades that will not only help you keep your attic dry and healthy, but will also improve your comfort and lower your energy costs. Find the right, cost-effective solution for condensation in your attic. Call (704) 333-5151 or contact us today to learn more about getting a free energy analysis for your Charlotte-area home. ### Signs You Need to Replace or Upgrade Your Attic Insulation Attic insulation is one of the most important elements of a comfortable, energy-efficient home, especially here in Charlotte where our humid summers and chilly winters can make energy bills climb fast. Yet many homeowners overlook the attic when troubleshooting high utility costs, indoor drafts, or uneven temperatures between floors. If you’re wondering whether your attic insulation is doing its job, here are the key signs it might be time to replace or upgrade it—plus what to expect when you do. Why Attic Insulation Matters in Charlotte Homes In the Charlotte area, our climate falls into Zone 3A, which means hot, humid summers and relatively mild winters that can still bring cold snaps. This kind of climate puts extra stress on attic insulation because of the constant push and pull of heat and moisture. When attic insulation is compromised, the home experiences the stack effect. In winter, warm indoor air rises and escapes through the attic, pulling cold outdoor air in through the lower levels. In summer, hot attic air presses down into the living spaces, making the AC work harder to keep up. That means insulation in Charlotte needs to be installed to the right R-value (R-38 is the recommended level for our area), air sealing needs to be done properly, and ventilation needs to be adequate to control moisture. Common Signs Your Attic Insulation Needs to Be Replaced 1. High Energy Bills If your heating and cooling costs keep climbing even though your HVAC system is well-maintained, your attic insulation might be the problem. Poor insulation allows conditioned air to escape and forces your HVAC system to run longer to maintain your set temperature. 2. Uneven Temperatures or Drafty Rooms Upstairs bedrooms that swelter in the summer and freeze in the winter often trace back to the attic. Uneven indoor temperatures and drafts suggest that insulation has gaps, has shifted, or simply isn't up to standard. 3. Indoor Drafts or Cold Ceilings Ceilings that feel cold in the winter or draftiness indoors despite closed windows and doors indicate that attic insulation isn’t blocking heat transfer effectively. 4. Old Insulation If it’s been 15-20 years since your last attic insulation upgrade, it's probably not performing like it should. Fiberglass or cellulose can degrade faster in Charlotte’s humidity. 5. Wet or Damp Insulation Moisture ruins insulation’s effectiveness. Wet insulation leads to mold growth, poor indoor air quality, and structural problems. If you’ve had roof leaks or smell dampness, your insulation needs checking. 6. Pest Infestation or Damage Pests like rodents and insects tear up insulation for nests, leaving behind waste that contaminates the material. If pests have been present, your insulation likely needs removal and replacement. 7. Visible Signs of Insulation Breakdown Visible signs include flattened insulation, gaps between batts, and insulation pulling away from rafters. Discoloration or mold is a red flag for replacement. 8. Ice Dams or Roof Icicles Though less common in Charlotte, ice dams indicate heat is escaping through the attic, often due to poor insulation and air leaks. 9. Poor Indoor Air Quality or Allergy Symptoms Contaminated insulation contributes to allergies, respiratory issues, and poor air quality. Mold, moisture, and pest waste in the attic can worsen these conditions. How Long Does Attic Insulation Last? Fiberglass: 20-30 years if dry and undisturbed Cellulose: Around 20 years, susceptible to moisture damage Spray Foam: Often lasts longer but can degrade if poorly installed or water-damaged Inspections every 5-10 years help ensure your attic insulation remains effective. The Importance of Air Sealing with Insulation Insulation alone isn’t enough. Air sealing gaps around fixtures, hatches, and framing is essential before adding new insulation to eliminate drafts and block humidity. What to Expect When Replacing Attic Insulation Attic Inspection Insulation Removal Air Sealing Installing New Insulation Ventilation Check Benefits of Upgrading Your Attic Insulation Lower energy bills Consistent indoor temperatures Less HVAC wear and tear Improved indoor air quality Quieter living spaces Eligibility for rebates and tax credits Schedule a Free Energy Analysis If it’s been years since your attic was last checked, or if you’re noticing any of the signs above, schedule a free energy analysis with Standard Insulating Company. We’ll inspect your attic, assess your insulation, and recommend the best next steps to improve your comfort and reduce energy waste. Schedule your free energy analysis today. We’ve been helping Charlotte homeowners with attic insulation for over 80 years—we know what works in our climate, and we know how to help you make a smart investment in your home. ### Radiant Barrier for Your Home ### The Standard Insulating Company Difference Are you frustrated that when you call an insulation company for help, you feel like they’re just trying to upsell you? Do you trust that the salesperson on the other end of the phone has any interest in trying to actually solve the problems you’re experiencing, or that they’re fixated on trying to close as big a sale as possible, regardless of whether your home actually needs it? We’re tired of it, too, which is why we do things differently at Standard Insulating Company, an insulation contractor serving the Greater Charlotte area that prides itself on trustworthy advice and quality, reliable insulation work to benefit your home. From attic insulation to crawlspace encapsulation, we’ll work with you to find a solution that fits your needs. An Insulation Company That Actually Listens When you talk to a team member at Standard Insulating Company, you're talking to someone curious about your home and looking for ways that we can solve your problems. We understand that as a homeowner, you might not be very interested in hearing about the R-value of their insulation or the technical aspects of home construction. You care more about your comfort, your health, and your heating and cooling costs. That’s why we ask the questions that try to get to the bottom of the specific concerns you’re having in your house, so that we can recommend solutions that will actually make a difference. Here’s What Our Customers Say About Working with Us Don’t just take our word for it—Standard Insulating Company works hard to make sure that you’re happy you decided to call our team. Here are just a few customer testimonials from actual homeowners about working with us: “Extremely professional, showed up on time for estimate and installation. Communicated in advance of arriving, gave a very clear estimate, were price competitive and helped with the paperwork to get a rebate back from Duke. Quality installation, cleaned up after install. Top notch. I highly recommend.” —John Lusky “Great customer service! Conscientious and did a great job. Lowered my electricity bills by as much as 45% in some months, year over year.” —Charles Hulburt “Inspection was thorough and provided good info and recommendations based on codes. Work was done as scheduled. Job was clean and removed all materials. Price was fair. Compared to two other sources and Standard provided more info and work detail. Would recommend them highly.” —Ronald C “Our 13-year-old home previously had radiant barrier improperly installed and in many areas the blown-in insulation was never filled to the minimum depth by the builder. Standard removed the old radiant barrier, installed new barrier on the roof deck (where it belongs) and brought our insulation up to R40 or better. The crew was polite and professional, cleaned up after themselves and were done in a day.” —Robert Baust Helping You Save More by Qualifying for Insulation Rebates and Financing Finally, Standard Insulating helps make important home improvements affordable with opportunities to qualify for insulation rebates and financing. Through Duke Energy, you can save as much as $250 on qualified insulation upgrades, and with financing options available through Standard Insulating and Service Finance Co., you can receive: 12-month same as cash 60-month financing at 6.99% interest Working with our team can make all the difference in your home insulation project. Call (704) 333-5151 or contact us today to get started. ### Why Should I Install a Radiant Barrier in My Attic? With so many insulation types available for Charlotte area homeowners looking to improve their home comfort and reduce their heating and cooling costs, it can be understandably confusing to know which might be the best for you. One of the categories of insulation you may have heard about is radiant barriers. If you’re unfamiliar with what exactly radiant barrier insulation is, and are wondering what the benefits of radiant barriers are, we’re here to help sort you out. What is Radiant Barrier Insulation? Radiant barriers are made of a highly reflective aluminum material. When installed, radiant barriers separate to form an enclosed airspace, offering multiple layers of protection. Radiant barriers are designed to slow or prevent radiant heat transfer. When the sun beats down in the summer, it heats your shingles and that heat conducts through the building materials of your roof, where it then radiates down through your attic space. With radiant barrier installation on your roof rafters and attic walls, the heat is stopped before it can radiate into your attic space and throughout your home, helping your other attic insulation work more effectively. In the winter, radiant barriers will stop the heat inside your heat from escaping your home, making it a year-round home performance solution. So could your attic benefit from radiant barrier insulation? Here are a few indicators it may be the right fit. You Have High Energy Bills High energy bills are likely an indication that a significant portion of the conditioned air from your heating and cooling system is being wasted or lost as the result of poor insulation. By installing a radiant barrier in your attic, you can help reduce the amount of time your HVAC system needs to run to keep your home at a comfortable temperature, saving you money and lowering your monthly energy bills. You Have a Consistently Hot Second Floor Do you dread heading upstairs on a hot summer afternoon, because you know it will be significantly warmer than the first floor? This is a classic sign of insufficient insulation (and poor air sealing) in your attic. If too much heat is radiating into your attic space, it will likely find ways to get into the top levels of your home as well. A radiant barrier in your attic helps keep temperatures more even throughout your home. Your HVAC System Is Always Running on High Does it feel like you are always cranking your thermostat up to try to make your home comfortable? Whether it’s an AC that has to run constantly in the summer or a furnace that is always on in the winter, you could be paying for warm or cool air that doesn’t even stick around long enough to keep you comfy. Radiant barrier insulation in your attic can help reduce the stress on your heating and cooling systems, which will not only require less energy to run, but can also reduce the frequency of repair calls and extend the lifespan of your HVAC equipment. Upgrade Your Home with Standard Insulating Company When you call a quality radiant barrier insulation company like Standard Insulating Company, you’ll be speaking to home performance experts who want to find the right solution for your specific problems in the unique home you have. Every home is different, and we don’t use a cookie-cutter approach to solve comfort and energy bill issues. If we don’t genuinely believe you’ll benefit the most from radiant barriers, we won’t recommend them! If you’re looking to add radiant heat barriers and insulation upgrades to your home, but aren’t sure where to start, schedule a free energy analysis. We’ll take a thorough and comprehensive look at your home, and help you pinpoint exactly where the pain points are. Using the results of our analysis, we’ll explain why and where your home isn’t performing as it should, as well as give you our best recommendations for home improvements that will make a difference in your comfort and energy usage. Looking to lower your energy bills by installing radiant barriers in your attic? Call (704) 333-5151 or contact us for expert home performance advice. ### What Does Insulation Have to Do with Healthy Indoor Air? When you think of air pollution, what’s the first thing you think of? Is it the smog that hangs over Charlotte? Did you know that indoor air often contains far higher concentrations of pollutants than outdoor air? In fact, for many people suffering from health issues related to poor air quality, it’s from the air they breathe in their homes, not the air outside. When homeowners in the greater Charlotte area come to us with concerns about their indoor air quality, we often find that the underlying cause can be linked back to their insulation. Today, let’s explore how home insulation can affect your indoor air quality. What are the Signs that I’m Suffering from Indoor Air Quality Issues? Have you been wondering, “Why do I always sneeze at home?” Is your house always dusty? Indoor air quality-related problems with your home can present themselves in many ways. Health symptoms of poor indoor air quality include: Redness or irritation of the eyes, nose, or throat Headaches, dizziness, and nausea Fatigue or shortness of breath Increased allergies or asthma Coughing and sneezing So what does insulation have to do with this? Well, insulation can play an important role in the underlying causes of poor IAQ. Here are a few of the insulation issues you could have going on in your home that you might not even realize. Mold Growth from Wet Insulation If moisture or humid air gets into contact with your home insulation, not only can it affect the ability of your insulation to offer thermal protection for your home, but it can also provide a place for mold to grow. Mold growth, whether it’s on your attic insulation, behind the walls of your first or second floor, or down in your basement or crawlspace, is one of the main causes of unhealthy air in a house. Pest Infested Insulation The other common IAQ issue we can trace back to insulation is when rodents, mice, squirrels, or insects get inside your home. These critters are drawn to insulation, often to nest, but sometimes to eat as well. Pest-compromised insulation won’t keep your home as warm in the winter and cool in the summer. They can also leave behind waste, which creates their own health hazards. Air Leaks It’s hard to talk about insulation without talking about air sealing. The two go hand in hand, and many insulation types are significantly less effective when exposed to moving air. Not only does your insulation work better when the tiny cracks and gaps in your home are sealed up, but you’ll also be preventing outdoor contaminants like pollen and other allergens from getting inside, where they’ll become a bigger issue in the confined spaces of your house. Get Help for Your Home with the Best Indoor Air Quality Company Near You Before you pony up for the cost of an indoor air quality test—which might only tell you that air pollutants exist in your home, not where they’re coming from—find out if your home’s insulation might be the underlying cause. With a free home energy analysis from Standard Insulating Company, you’ll get an in-depth inspection and test of your home and our recommendation as to whether your home could benefit from removing and replacing old insulation and air sealing. These kinds of home improvement upgrades will not only help improve your indoor air quality, but they can make it more comfortable in your home and help reduce your heating and cooling bills as well. Improve your indoor air quality and reduce your allergies at home. Call (704) 333-5151 or contact us to find out if insulation upgrades are the right solution for your home. ### Why can't my AC ever seem to keep my house cool?? When summer is at its hottest, your home’s AC system is put to the test. But often even though your AC is running, it just seems like the house never cools down like it should. If your AC is well maintained, it may not be the culprit of uncomfortable temperatures in your Charlotte NC home. While it may seem like a good idea to move right to an AC upgrade, unless your home can effectively control the flow of energy, your expensive conditioned air could be seeping away. Before upgrading or replacing your air conditioner, It's best to first check your home for air leaks and inadequate insulation. How air leaks can affect your AC performance Like many homes in our area, your home has lots of tiny --and not so tiny-- gaps and cracks where outside air can leak in and expensive cooled inside air can leak out. In many homes these small leaks can add up to the equivalent of leaving a window wide open all the time! Not only is air leakage expensive, it can make your home feel hot, drafty, and more humid during the summer. Don’t put a new AC system into a leaky box! Standard Insulating Company’s performance experts know that the combination of air sealing and insulation delivers the biggest return on investment for saving energy and money. Why? Insulation limits energy from passing through like a warm sweater on a cool day. Adding air sealing is like putting on a windbreaker to help keep your home cozy and comfortable. This combination works in the heat of summer as well by keeping your inside living areas from leaking out cool air, while also blocking heat from the sun and warm humid outdoor air from heating up temperatures inside your living space. The result Is a cooler house. Plus, you'll save money because your AC won’t need to work so hard. Attic insulation improvements can tackle second-floor summer heat If you're wondering why the second floor of your Charlotte home just won’t cool off, the reason, again, may not be failing AC. It may be ineffective or inadequate attic insulation. The insulation in your attic is the first line of defense when it comes to keeping your house both cool in the summer and warm in the winter. In the summer the energy from the sun, radiant heat, can penetrate poor insulation and heat up your home’s second floor. Crawl spaces can also affect summer comfort Many Charlotte area homes also have damp, musty crawl spaces, which if left unimproved can be a source of energy loss and moisture problems. Poor air sealing and inadequate insulation in the crawl space can allow damp musty air to seep into your home from below. Drafty rooms and problems with mold are often the result of air from the crawl space filtering up into the living space. At the same time, cooled AC air can leak out, making your central air struggle to keep up. Crawl space encapsulation services from Standard Insulating Company will clean, seal and insulate your nasty crawl space to keep your home protected from ground moisture and improve the efficiency of your home’s heating and cooling systems. Cooling my house without AC-- one energy saving option! Why spend money on new AC when air sealing and insulation can keep your home cool in the summer? Once our insulation team air seals and insulates, we often find our customers are able to scale back on AC use and save on utility bills. Check your home insulation with the Charlotte, NC experts With years of experience helping homeowners improve their home comfort, Standard Insulating Company is the insulation contractor most trusted by your Charlotte neighbors. We can help avoid unnecessary costs of upgrading your central air system! Plus, most homeowners can expect to save as much as 40% off their energy costs just by improving insulation and air sealing. Don’t put a new AC system into a drafty home! Call (704) 333-5151 or contact us today to learn how proper insulation and air sealing can improve the performance of your existing cooling & heating systems. ### 5 Signs Your Charlotte Home Needs Crawl Space Encapsulation: Is It Time to Seal? Is your Charlotte, NC home drafty, musty, or eating up your energy budget? The crawl space beneath your floors might be the culprit. Often ignored, crawl spaces are a major source of poor home performance in the Metrolina area. At Standard Insulating Company, we’ve seen how encapsulation transforms comfort and cuts bills—but how do you know if it’s right for you? Wondering, “Should I encapsulate my crawl space?” or “What’s a crawl space anyway?” Here are five telltale signs it’s time to act, plus tips to check your Charlotte home. What Is Crawl Space Encapsulation (and Why Does It Matter)? Crawl space encapsulation seals the area under your home with a vapor barrier, often paired with insulation and a dehumidifier. It’s like wrapping your crawl space in a protective shield to block moisture, pests, and air leaks. For Charlotte homes—especially those with brick crawl spaces or humid foundations—it’s a game-changer. But when do you need it? Let’s look at the signs. 5 Signs Your Crawl Space Needs Encapsulation Not sure if your crawl space is crying for help? Here are five red flags Charlotte homeowners should watch for. 1. High Heating and Cooling Bills What You Notice: Skyrocketing energy costs, even with normal usage. Why It Happens: The “stack effect” pulls cold air in through your crawl space in winter (as warm air escapes upstairs) and pushes hot air down in summer. A leaky crawl space amplifies this, wasting energy. Fix It: If bills are climbing, encapsulation with subfloor insulation can plug the leak. 2. Moisture and Mold on First-Floor Walls or Floors What You Notice: Damp corners, mold spots, or peeling paint above the crawl space. Why It Happens: Charlotte’s humidity seeps through concrete or brick crawl spaces, fostering mold that creeps upstairs. Fix It: A vapor barrier and dehumidifier stop moisture in its tracks—don’t let mold win. 3. Indoor Allergy Symptoms What You Notice: Sneezing, coughing, or itchy eyes indoors, especially near the first floor. Why It Happens: Unsealed crawl spaces pull in pollen, VOCs, and mold spores via the stack effect, tanking air quality. HVAC ducts down there make it worse. Fix It: Encapsulation plus air duct sealing keeps your air clean and breathable. 4. Bad Smells Inside Your Home What You Notice: Musty or foul odors wafting up from below. Why It Happens: Mold, pests (think mice or bugs), or rotting debris in a damp crawl space create a stink that rises. Fix It: Seal it up with a barrier—say goodbye to mystery smells. 5. Drafts and Low Comfort What You Notice: Chilly floors or drafts on the first floor, even with the heat cranked. Why It Happens: Without insulation or sealing, cold air sneaks up from the crawl space, stealing your comfort. Fix It: Encapsulation locks in warmth, making your home cozy year-round. Benefits of Crawl Space Encapsulation Still asking, “Do I really need to encapsulate my crawl space?” Here’s what you gain:   Benefit How It Helps Lower Bills Cuts energy loss by up to 18% Better Comfort Warmer floors, fewer drafts Cleaner Air Blocks allergens and mold Pest Protection Keeps critters out Home Value Boost Adds efficiency appeal How to Check Your Crawl Space Yourself Wondering how to spot trouble? Here’s a quick DIY guide for Charlotte homeowners: Peek Below: Crawl in (safely!) with a flashlight—look for damp soil, puddles, or mold. Sniff Test: Musty or odd smells mean moisture or pests. Feel the Floor: Cold or drafty first-floor spots signal air leaks from below. Check Insulation: If it’s soggy, torn, or missing, it’s not doing its job. Call Us: Not keen on crawling? Our free energy analysis covers it all. Does Your Charlotte Home Need Encapsulation Now? Charlotte’s humid summers and wet winters make crawl spaces a breeding ground for trouble—especially in brick foundations common here. With 16311 Impressions but only 36 Clicks (0.22% CTR), locals are searching but unsure. Encapsulation fixes moisture, boosts efficiency (think R-13 insulation under floors), and saves money—around $200-300 yearly on energy. Pair it with insulation? Even better, though it’s not always needed post-encapsulation (we’ll assess that). Trust Standard Insulating Company for Crawl Space Solutions From attic radiant barriers to crawl space encapsulation, Standard Insulating Company tailors fixes for Charlotte homes. Not sure if it’s worth it? Our building science pros will show you—check our testimonials page (#) for proof from happy customers across Rock Hill to Mooresville. Recognize these signs? Don’t wait for mold or sky-high bills to force your hand.   Ready to seal your crawl space? Call (704-333-5151) or contact us today (#) for a free energy analysis tailored to your Charlotte home.   ### 5 Signs Your Charlotte Home Needs Crawl Space Encapsulation Crawl spaces are one of the most neglected areas of homes in the Charlotte area, and yet also one of the primary sources of poor home performance When it comes to home efficiency solutions, crawl space encapsulation can go a long way towards improving your home comfort and reducing your energy bills. But how do you know what kind of insulation to use for a crawl space? And where can you find a contractor who specializes in crawl space encapsulation near you? First, let’s find out how to tell if a crawl space solution will benefit your Charlotte home with these five signs there’s trouble brewing just beneath your floorboards. 1. High Heating and Cooling Bills The way heat moves in your home is often most easily explained by what’s called the “stack effect.” In the stack effect, winter pressure differentials between indoor and outdoor air (due to differences in temperature) cause cold air to be drawn in through the lower parts of your home as warm air escapes through the top. In the summer, this process is reversed, and warmer outdoor temperatures infiltrate through the top of the home, pushing cooler air down and out the bottom. The less home insulation and the more air leaks your crawl space or basement have, the more pronounced the stack effect will be. So if you’re saddled with high heating and cooling bills every month, one of the first places you should look is your leaky crawl space. Adding crawl space subfloor insulation and air sealing can reduce the energy loss from the stack effect in your home and improve indoor comfort. 2. Moisture and Mold on the Walls and Floors of Your First Floor Basements and crawl spaces are prime targets for attracting moisture buildup through a home’s concrete foundation. With enough moisture, mold will surely grow, and if that growth is significant enough, it can migrate up from the hidden areas of your home into your bottom floor. If you start to notice that the bottom corners of rooms directly above crawl spaces are showing signs of moisture or mold, that’s a big sign that the problem is much more significant beneath you. To address this issue, a good home performance contractor will often install a crawl space moisture barrier to prevent moisture from building in those areas, and in some cases even adding a dehumidifier to keep moisture levels low, as well as test for mold to make sure there aren’t any hidden buildups making their way into your living spaces. 3. Indoor Allergy Symptoms In Your Home If you’re noticing you experience an increase of allergy-like symptoms inside your room, you could be suffering from poor indoor air quality, and your crawl space could very well be to blame. Moisture and mold create health issues, and if your crawl space isn’t properly insulated and sealed, the previously mentioned stack effect could be helping to bring in outdoor air full of harmful VOCs and contaminants. For many homes, the crawl space is where HVAC equipment runs, and customers often ask us: When it comes to air duct sealing, “Is it worth it?” The answer is yes! Air duct sealing helps ensure that the air circulating throughout your home is clean and healthy to breathe. 4. Bad Smells Inside Your House Are you smelling something foul coming up below your first story floors? There are several reasons your crawl space could be emitting strange smells. Pests could be living and nesting there, including insects and mice. Also, moisture leads to mold like we’ve mentioned, which has a distinct odor (this is why mold tests are always a good idea). Installing vapor barriers in crawl spaces is a great way to reduce crawl space odors and stop health issues from making their way into your home. 5. Drafts and Low Indoor Comfort A crawl space without proper insulation or air sealing can drastically affect not just your heating and cooling costs (see #1) but your overall indoor comfort as well. Do you find yourself saying “My room is too cold!” too often in the winter season? Are there areas of your first floor where you’d swear there was a chilly draft moving through the house? Encapsulating your crawl space helps prevent conditioned heat from escaping, warming your home and keeping you comfortable all winter long. Crawl Space Encapsulation and Insulation Contractors in Charlotte, NC From the very top of your Charlotte house, where radiant barrier installation and attic insulation materials with moisture prevention can help prevent heat loss and mold growth, to basement insulation and crawl space encapsulation costs, the building science team at Standard Insulating will work with you to find a solution for your home. Check out our testimonials page to hear what some of our customers have to say about working with us! Recognize any of the signs you need crawl space encapsulation? Call (704) 333-5151 or contact us today for your free energy analysis. ### Your Fall North Carolina Home Performance Checklist (Click here for a downloadable version of this infographic) Find & Seal Air Leaks Locating and eliminating air leaks reduces drafts and prevents heated air from escaping your home when it’s cold out. Schedule a free energy analysis to pinpoint air leaks Have a professional seal air leaks with spray foam Insulate Your Home Home insulation keeps valuable heat in all fall and winter, helping you and your family feel more comfortable. Schedule an energy audit to locate problem areas Have new insulation installed in key areas like the attic and walls Update Your Crawl Space Making a few crawl space upgrades now will control moisture and enhance comfort throughout the entire home. Inspect the drainage system Air seal and insulate your crawl space where needed Install a sump pump if needed Schedule crawl space encapsulation for optimum moisture control Standard Insulating Company: Your Charlotte Home Performance Expert Need help checking off some items on your list? Standard Insulating Company is here to help! Contact us or call (704) 333-5151 today to schedule a free energy analysis and find out! ### Just Bought a Home? We Can Assess Your Insulation Purchasing a new home is an exciting time — but homeownership can also come with many worries. You may find yourself asking questions like “How high will my energy bills be?”, “Will the second floor be hot in the summer?”, or “Which home improvement projects should I tackle first?” Fortunately, these are all questions that an in-depth assessment of your home’s insulation can help answer. Why Home Insulation Is So Important Insulation has a larger impact on your home’s energy efficiency and comfort than you might think. Its purpose is to control heat flow into and out of your living spaces through your walls, attic and crawlspace (or basement). In the summer, it keeps unwanted heat out, while in the winter, it keeps valuable heat in. When done right, home insulation can stabilize indoor temperatures year-round, reduce the need to run heating and cooling equipment, and lower annual energy costs. An estimated 90% of homes in the Charlotte area are under-insulated, so chances are your home could use an insulation upgrade. Signs That Your Home Is Under-Insulated It’s not always easy to tell how well insulated your home is. After all, inspecting your insulation on your own would require you to climb into the attic and then somehow look behind your walls. However, there are some telltale signs you can look out for. Signs that your home is under-insulated include: Fluctuating temperatures from room to room A hot upstairs in the summer Cold floors in the winter Constantly running heating and AC equipment High energy bills Assess Your Charlotte Area Home with a Free Energy Analysis Wondering if the insulation in your new home is up to snuff? Whether you live in Chantilly, Plaza Midwood, South End, Dilworth here in Charlotte, or in a nearby city like Gastonia, Mooresville, Kannapolis, or Rock Hill, Standard Insulating Company is your trusted local home insulation company. We offer a free energy analysis to help our customers understand exactly what’s going on with their home insulation. We might find, for example, that your home is lacking important insulation in the attic — and that installing new, blown in fiberglass insulation will keep that second floor cool in the summer. Or, we might find using thermal imaging that your exterior walls are under-insulated. After we’ve inspected your home, we will provide you with our recommended insulation upgrades. After you give the go-ahead for us to complete any necessary insulation work, your new home will be better equipped to run efficiently, save you money on your energy bills, and keep you comfortable. Start your new home off on the right foot with an insulation assessment. Contact us or call (704) 333-5151 today to schedule a free energy analysis! ### Financing Options ### Builder Services ### Owens Corning Certified Energy Expert ### Crawl Space Insulation ### Free Insulation Quote ### Blog ### Floor Insulation ### Crawl Space Encapsulation ### Radiant Barrier ### Free Energy Analysis ### Attic Insulation ### Insulation Rebates ### Wall Insulation ### Testimonials 5.0 5.0 out of 5 stars (based on 552 reviews) Excellent100%Very good0%Average0%Poor0%Terrible0% Karen LindsayJuly 6, 2025Standard Insulating did a great job! They were on time, very professional and did an excellent job in cleaning up! Would highly recommend them.See more from this reviewer on Google Claire SimpsonJuly 1, 2025See more from this reviewer on Google Mike DeLargyJune 17, 2025Standard insulation was a great company to deal with, had to delay twice on my side and they worked with me both times. The crew was on time and courteous and informative. I would suggest if you need insulation work call standard.See more from this reviewer on Google Gretchen WerrellJune 17, 2025Installation of insulation in attic was flawless and fast. Workers cleaned up all traces of thee job. Highly recommend.See more from this reviewer on Google John CampJune 16, 2025Benjie was more than professional and the work crew was on time and did a great job. I would recommend this company to anyoneSee more from this reviewer on Google Doug RumonJune 12, 2025Extremely professional, clean up of all the small pieces on insulation was great only found 3-4 small pieces after removing and replace ~1600sqft of fiberglass batting. Completed the work in minimal time.See more from this reviewer on Google Karla WilliamsMay 13, 2025Everyone at Standard Insulating is top-notch. They are qualified, professional, and affordable. From start to finish, they never missed a beat; adding additional attic insulation to improve my HVAC effciency, to replacing insulation and adding a liner in my crawl space. They would be my first choice in the future!See more from this reviewer on Google Patsy GriffinMay 12, 2025See more from this reviewer on Google Tracey GallowayMay 12, 2025Experience with company was very positive from getting a quote to installation. The team that arrived promptly on the day of appointment was very professional. Did very quality work, explained everything to me and answered questions. Highly recommend.See more from this reviewer on Google Bennie ClementsMay 12, 2025Everything was exceptional. The quoting process, scheduling process and all communication was thorough and above expectations. The best part was the installers attention to detail and cleanliness. Highly recommend.See more from this reviewer on Google Joshua StallardMay 6, 2025They did a nice job and took pictures in the attic to show me the work. They are very easy to work with and very professionalSee more from this reviewer on Google matt haydonApril 30, 2025I had a very complicated and unique insulation need- we had a cantilevered porch that was wide open to the second floor of our home with no air barrier and three other people could not figure out how to do it. David Anderson figured it out and his team came out and knew exactly what to do and how to do it. The were quick, clean and professional. I am a happy customer.See more from this reviewer on Google Cannon StoneApril 25, 2025Impressed from start to finish. Can’t recommend them highly enough.See more from this reviewer on Google Lauren HubertApril 9, 2025The team was so professional and easy to communicate with. They took care of our house while they were working inside. Immediately following their work, our HVAC unit was running half the amount of time it was previously. We were incredibly pleased and would work with them again.See more from this reviewer on Google Scott RohwedderApril 8, 2025Called Standard Insulation and spoke with Cristina about getting a quote on attic insulation and crawl space insulation. Sent Justin out a couple of days later and measured and gave me the quote. I accepted and workers were out to do the job. Friendly quick, clean and did a beautiful job. And got me a $700 rebate from Duke! Can’t say enough good things about Cristina, Justin, and the crew that came to my house. Outstanding!See more from this reviewer on Google Dominique RichardsonMarch 28, 2025Very happy with the work that was done! The crew was knowledgeable, it was affordable, and the work was completed within 3 hours.See more from this reviewer on Google gretchen telkeMarch 28, 2025Great company and experience…accommodating and efficient!See more from this reviewer on Google Ian BakerMarch 27, 2025They were fast and work looks amazing!See more from this reviewer on Google Debbie RobertsMarch 21, 2025They were very professional. They explained everything they did in detail. Completed the job in two hours as estimated and didn’t leave any mess behind.See more from this reviewer on Google Lauren FowlerMarch 20, 2025Duke energy told me I could get a rebate if I updated my insulation, and they put me in touch with 2 different insulating companies. After having both companies come out, it was clear who I wanted to go with. Standard Insulating Company was timely, professional, and offered a much better price for the job. I was pleased with the process from start to finish, and they even file the rebate information for you! I am very happy with their service and will be recommending them to all of my neighbors!See more from this reviewer on Google Carol Song of JoyMarch 17, 2025This company has a history of excellence – all the way from the initial consultation (David) to the completion of the project. We are very pleased with the work done with punctual arrivals, full cleanup and installation. This was a 2 day job and we are very pleased with followup as well!See more from this reviewer on Google Rizk HannaMarch 17, 2025Professional team with very reasonable pricing. They were extremely clean and left my house just as spotless as when they arrived. We hired them to remove our attic insulation and blow in new fiberglass insulation to eliminate an infestation problem. They were quick and we’re very satisfied with the results. Highly recommendedSee more from this reviewer on Google Jeff D. EmersonMarch 17, 2025David was very thorough in the entire quote process and the crew did a great job…kept everything covered and cleaned everything up when they were done.See more from this reviewer on Google Johnny TrinhMarch 13, 2025S.I.C were very respectful of my time and also answered every single question that I had for them. They arrived a bit early and were finished in roughly an hour. They were very clean and ensured no mess was left behind. They showed me the insulation and they were also able to get me a bit more than they quoted. Everything from the consultation to the installion went smooth and I have no complaints, they even did a follow up and asked if I had any issues with anything.See more from this reviewer on Google Christina HannaMarch 8, 2025Today we had a great experience with Standard Insulating Company! Justin, Paulo and their team were great! Very efficient, clean and reasonable. They replaced our entire insulation in our attic! They explained the steps and made sure our house stayed clean in the process! They provided us pictures during the day of their work! Would highly recommend them!!See more from this reviewer on Google Garry A. WolfeMarch 1, 2025Date of install 2/19/2025. The crew showed up early (7:00 A.M.) and I was prepared for them. I made sure there was a clear path to the upstairs access to the interior of our roof thru our garage. I left out drinks and snacks for them and they got to work quickly. We have approx. 1900 square feet and we ordered 7 in blown in corning insulation & the Radiant barrier. This was a big job done professionally and the crew cleaned up nicely. The crew chief kept me informed and gave me a tour of the finished work and answered my questions. I would highly recommend Standard Insulting Company for new or upgraded work. David is well trained and very experienced and sized my job perfectly. Since the install our furnace does not stay on for long periods and our home is quieter now. Cristina handled the paper work and scheduling professionally with a comfortable friendly manner. Thank you, Standard Insulating Company, for a job well done. A happy, much warmer now, Garry A. Wolfe!See more from this reviewer on Google Mary HiceFebruary 27, 2025Mason was great!See more from this reviewer on Google Larry YuntFebruary 24, 2025Crew, personsl, professional, and efficientSee more from this reviewer on Google Caleb BenzFebruary 20, 2025See more from this reviewer on Google Robert SimsicFebruary 13, 2025The team from Standard Insulating Company did an outstanding job. I had radiant barrier installed along with additional insulation blown in the attic. They were professional, CLEAN and efficient. Looking forward to lower energy bills!See more from this reviewer on Google Nanci DeMarcoFebruary 6, 2025I went through Duke Energy to get insulation company referrals. Standard Insulating company was one of four options provided to me. I did receive a quote from another company as well. I went with Standard Insulating as they offered more for less cost. They sealed all areas of accessible penetrations, installed a zippered stair cover, plus the blown insulation. The workers were on time (7:30am), very professional, laid plastic to protect the floors, and did a fantastic job. They were done in two hours and I could not be more pleased. Highly recommend.See more from this reviewer on Google Tom GoebelFebruary 3, 2025Great work and I would highly recommend them.See more from this reviewer on Google Noah BrownJanuary 29, 2025Insulated our house before we moved in so we didn’t have to freeze our butts off. Thank yall.See more from this reviewer on Google John RichardsJanuary 28, 2025The sales / engineer guy was very helpful he went out of his way to meet my schedule, the install crew was on time, very professional and cleaned up behind themselves, and the office staff was communicating with me all the way thru the process, in the end I received the documentation, pics & all, for my filesSee more from this reviewer on Google Maddy VenturellaJanuary 9, 2025I gotta say I was blown away with a level of service and for the job they did in my attic and the price wasn’t that much more than it would’ve cost me to do it myself I couldn’t be more pleased. The men who came were so accommodating and helpful and they treated my attic like it was their own And the sales consultant, David put no pressure on me at all. He just gave me the facts a great price and time to think about it and he even found me a Duke Energy rebate that I didn’t know about which made the job even cheaper.It’s no wonder their ratings are so highSee more from this reviewer on Google Robin FisherJanuary 7, 2025Nice job! In and out in one day. Worked fast, pretty clean. Satisfied customer.See more from this reviewer on Google H RDecember 11, 2024I contacted Standard Insulating Company for quote to insulate my attic space. Justin was courteous, professional and on time, he didn’t try to push any products that weren’t needed. He offered different options to complete the job and he didn’t waste my time. The installers were great and arrived about 25 minutes early which I didn’t mind. They introduced themselves and were friendly and professional. The 2 man crew was in and out in about an hour and 15 minutes, they cleaned up the small mess that was left behind and I was very pleased. I would recommend this company to friends and family!See more from this reviewer on Google Tyler FearonDecember 4, 2024Very knowledgeable and honest. I had soffit vent issues that needed to be addressed before adding insulation. Justin made that very clear and detailed why that was important to fix as well as explained in detail how attics work. I would hire them again if I needed themSee more from this reviewer on Google Connor FaganNovember 21, 2024Outstanding work. whole process was quick and easy the job was done perfectly. Additionally, the quote was cheaper than competitorsSee more from this reviewer on Google Cindy BeanNovember 21, 2024Justin came out to give estimate and he was friendly and informative. He gave good recommendations for our needs. The installers were polite and made sure to protect our floors while they were going in and out. And Christina also was professional and helped with scheduling and answering questions. Very satisfied with Standard Insulating!See more from this reviewer on Google itdiscipleNovember 12, 2024Standard Insulating really impressed me. They were prompt in getting out to do an estimate, their price was very good, and they offered a discount for paying with check or cash. They arrived on time, they knew exactly what needed to be done and went the extra mile with spraying foam to seal any gaps up around the windows and behind the outlets. The crew of two were professional experts in their work, provided me an overview of what they would do, and cleaned up after completing the job in a very short time. I highly recommend them and will use them on my attic when I start that job.See more from this reviewer on Google Janusz GalOctober 30, 2024Team did great work and very quick to install the insulation!See more from this reviewer on Google Jason MarshallOctober 30, 2024Gave me a quote last year that I held off one. Reconnected this year and they still had my info, provided me with an updated quote which was nearly identical, came out right on time and had the work done in an hour with no mess involved. Highly recommend.See more from this reviewer on Google Kathy LOctober 3, 2024They were prompt, efficient and did a great job from giving a quote right through completing the work. I would highly recommend.See more from this reviewer on Google Ashley EdmondOctober 2, 2024Standard insulating company was wonderful. They were incredibly efficient and did a great job. Very professional and got the job done quickly. They arrived on time and were very courteous.See more from this reviewer on Google Jessica NormanSeptember 28, 2024We knew we needed more blown insulation in our attic. I thought we may have needed the old stuff removed. Justin came out and took a look. He knew I thought we needed the old stuff taken out but didn’t sell us on it. He said our existing insulation was clean and gave us a quote to blow more on top to get it up to minimum standards. They sealed all the air leaks into the living space below, added guards to prevent insulation from getting in the soffits, then installed a zippered hatch to prevent air leaks from the access ladder. They also put in little rulers to ensure even coverage and depth. The installation crew was done in less than 2 hours. The difference was NOTICEABLE. As in, within that same day the upstairs was noticeably cooler. I wish we would’ve done this years ago. I have already recommended them to neighbors and family in the area and I’m recommending them to you all now.See more from this reviewer on Google Tim RyersonSeptember 25, 2024I can honestly say that this company is really good. David came out for the initial review and estimate and his crew came out for the insulation and clean up. Everything about David and his crew is professional and fair. I honestly can’t say enough kind things about them. My wife and I are very pleased with their service and highly recommend them.See more from this reviewer on Google marty vanceSeptember 25, 2024They gave me a quote and was able to do the job in the same week, the crew that did the work were excellent and completed the work within 4 hours.See more from this reviewer on Google Laura StrandSeptember 14, 2024The guys came over on time, they took care not to make a mess and did a great job insulating my attic. They gave an accurate time estimate to get the job done. I can’t wait to see next months electric bill!See more from this reviewer on Google Michelle HoustonSeptember 9, 2024I needed the removal of old insulation above the office and porch, air sealing of the attic and new insulation added to the attic. Justin came out to provide a quote for the job. He was prompt, friendly, professional and efficient. There wasn’t any pressure to buy, but options were provided and appreciated. I took the time to process my options. When I needed additional information, Justin was great at following up with me. Once I decided to move forward with the project, Justin provided a step by step process of the job so there would be no surprises during the installation process. The entire crew was awesome! The installers were Masters in their profession. I was more than pleased with the entire insulation process. I highly recommend Standard Insulation for your future needs. Cristina will take care of you.See more from this reviewer on Google Clarissa TesslerSeptember 9, 2024Overall a great experience! They came out quickly, were well priced, completed the job efficiently and cleanly. I appreciate the fast turn around and great service!See more from this reviewer on Google Concord ShopperSeptember 4, 2024Workers showed up on time. Job took as long as they said it would, they were in and out, above expectations. Would definitely use again no complaints.See more from this reviewer on Google Michael McWaltersSeptember 4, 2024Great experience start to finish. Sales pitch was clear and straightforward. The crew was on time, quick and clean, making sure to have me review the work prior to them leaving and answer any questions I had. Would highly recommend.See more from this reviewer on Google Sal ContrinoSeptember 4, 2024They did a good job and were great at communication along the waySee more from this reviewer on Google Karin BauerSeptember 3, 2024I had such an amazing experience with this company, so where do I even begin? I purchased an older two story townhome in January and as the weather got warmer, I began noticing a significant difference in the temperature on the second floor. During my initial inspection, the inspector did comment that the attic insulation may need to be fluffed as it looked a bit compressed so I knew that had to be the issue. I contacted standard insulating company and received a response right away And made an appointment for a consultation. A sales rep came by to check out my attic, explained options to me in detail and provided a reasonable quote. I was able to book the service soon after. The installers came early and worked very efficiently to get the job done in no time at all. The improvement in the temperature upstairs was noticeable that same day. Worth every penny to be comfortable in your home and recommend this business 1000%See more from this reviewer on Google Mike SchmidtSeptember 2, 2024Standard Insulating was one of 4 Duke Energy contractors referred to me for attic insulation. Their sales guy was the most helpful of the bunch and the quote was the lowest price, so I went with them to bring me to R38. The work all went smoothly, but there was some difficulty qualifying for the Duke Energy rebate since my existing insulation was not actually at or below R19. Luckily, Standard followed up for me with Duke Energy and was able to get my rebate processed anyway – excellent service!See more from this reviewer on Google b AAugust 30, 2024They did a great job. Smooth communication, showed up when they said they would, and were very professional.See more from this reviewer on Google Don Ordogne JrAugust 28, 2024Installation crew was professional and efficient. They did a great job! ThanksSee more from this reviewer on Google Larrie ErvinAugust 27, 2024It was a pleasure doing business with you. The service was efficient and on time.See more from this reviewer on Google Ottokar SpecterAugust 27, 2024Team was on-time, professional and did a very good job. Strongly recommendSee more from this reviewer on Google Eric BarradaleAugust 25, 2024Our house is 24 years old. We had moisture in our crawl space at various times over the years due to issues including flooding rains, burst pipes, and moisture from humid summers. The intermittent moisture caused the batted insulation between the floor joists to degrade over time, so our insulation was in need of replacement. Dave came out and assessed the situation and gave us a quote with options. We ended up having all the insulation in the crawl space replaced as well as the vapor barrier on the floor of the crawl space. The crew did a great job and was very professional and courteous. We highly recommend the Standard Insulating Company.See more from this reviewer on Google Cindy PayneAugust 14, 2024Using this company was a pleasure. The crew that cane out was vwey profeasional and courteous. The work they did was done very well. I wouldd cwerainly use them againSee more from this reviewer on Google T LuceroAugust 14, 2024Standard Insulating Company did an excellent job insulating my attic. The gentleman who initially fielded my request and inspected my home was prompt, knowledgeable, and professional. The two technicians who did the work were fast, clean, and walked me through the process. And my attic is feeling much better/cooler. All around great job. Highly recommended.See more from this reviewer on Google Sandra S. JonesAugust 9, 2024I needed to add insulation to my attic to increase efficiency. I chose Standard Insulating Company based on their longevity in the area and reputation. I wanted it done correctly. They far exceeded my expectations with how easy it was to accomplish what I needed. The man came in and did an evaluation and gave me possible ways to go. We planned what I needed based on my needs and budget. They came a few days later and installed it. I was most impressed by how careful they were to keep my house clean. I couldn’t even tell they had been there. I will happily go with this company again should I want to increase my insulation further. They are first rate, no shortcuts.See more from this reviewer on Google Clayton ThornburgAugust 2, 2024Standard Insulating Company was extremely helpful and do an amazing job! I notice a difference in the garage temperature already! I would recommend this company to anyone and everyone!See more from this reviewer on Google Pat PutnalJuly 30, 2024Professional, prompt, excellent products, good price. Very pleasedSee more from this reviewer on Google Amy LeisterJuly 22, 2024Great professional job, Highly recommendSee more from this reviewer on Google Renea BarberJuly 13, 2024I was very impressed with Standard Insulating. I contacted them after receiving a Duke Energy assessment. David did a great job explaining the process and took the time to answer all my questions. I can already tell the difference in my home. I’m looking forward to seeing a reduction in my power bill.See more from this reviewer on Google Christopher Van RynbachJune 25, 2024We had a great experience with Standard Insulating Company. The process was fairly simple and easy. After we made initial contact, David came over to quote the work. After a little back and forth we agreed on the job specifications. Scheduling the work was easy and the team arrived on time, walked through what they were doing, made sure to not leave any messes and finished the job in the required time. They completed work to encapsulate our attic with the radiant barrier, seal any air entry points in the attic and then add additional insulation. In our bonus room they added a radiant barrier to the knee walls as well as the entry doors.See more from this reviewer on Google Beck MillerJune 25, 2024Standard was quick, efficient, clean, and incredibly fairly priced going above and beyond to ensure I had everything I needed. I will be using them again for future homes and improvements.See more from this reviewer on Google Michelle OrcuttJune 20, 2024Justin was fantastic when he came out to provide quotes! He was so thorough with his explanations and didn’t push things we didn’t need to have done right away. The installation team was also great. They arrived on time and were in and out super-fast. They left everything clean, and the end product is amazing! I highly recommend this company.See more from this reviewer on Google Laura PearsonJune 1, 2024We should have called Standard Insulation a long time ago! The response was quick. He gave us more information about the process than other quotes from other companies. During the free energy analysis, we learn about tax benefits, and the Owens Corning lifetime guarantee – a great selling point for owners. Turnaround time was excellent. The crew came in and set up without disturbing normal routines of the day. In and out, and quality work. We can truly feel a difference in our temperatures throughout the house! And savings on our bill. Should have done this years ago! Completely worth it!See more from this reviewer on Google Daniel PartisMay 24, 2024See more from this reviewer on Google Fancy NancyMay 24, 2024Awesome experience, the price was reasonable, they scheduled quickly were in and out, and did a fantastic job. They made sure I was happy and went the extra mile to clean up and protect my home. I would hire again and wish they did more than insulation.See more from this reviewer on Google Jeff RomanMay 19, 2024David and his team are great. They fully explained my options and the pros and cons without pressuring me into the most expensive one. They wanted me to have all the information and make an informed decision. Once I chose the option, the work was scheduled and completed quickly. The crew was great, showed me photos of the work, explained what they did, and answered my questions. I would highly recommend Standard Insulating.See more from this reviewer on Google K WMay 17, 2024The crew was fast and efficient and got the job done right!See more from this reviewer on Google Jeff CouchMay 8, 2024Did exactly what they said they would doSee more from this reviewer on Google NancyMay 2, 2024I was very pleased with my experience with Standard Insulating Company, from my first contact with them through the completion of the job. It is rare to receive such a prompt response from a company. A knowledgeable representative was sent to my home, where he inspected my attic, patiently answered all my questions, and explained what was needed. I then received an estimate via email. I was put on their schedule to have the job done within a few days. The crew was prompt and professional, and completed the work smoothly without any problems. I would not hesitate to recommend Standard Insulation Company.See more from this reviewer on Google Jing ZhouMay 2, 2024Standard Insulating Company did a great job to air seal and insulate our attic. All personnel we encountered, including sales, insulation crew, and office assistant are professional, knowledgeable, and easy to communicate with. They didn’t try to sell more than necessary. The price is reasonable. We are very satisfied with their service.See more from this reviewer on Google Kyle BreitingerApril 30, 2024Highly Recommend! Justin was really knowledgeable and gave us some great ideas on how to go about upgrading our insulation. And Mason and his team did a great job with the install. Left the house and attic very clean and it looks great! Really appreciate the ease of using them. Had some other quotes and they were our pick based on experience, pricing, and quality. 10/10!See more from this reviewer on Google Chris DiOrioApril 23, 2024Literally, the best service I have experienced in any purchase this year. Called x1, Dave came out in few days. Experienced & told me what I failed to realize about insulation needs, facts & what they could do. Didn’t try to sell me, but rather educated me…& he knew his stuff what was best for my attic, insulation & needs. Then the installation was scheduled x3 days later. The x3 guys showed up & had the work done in 2 hours…working together. Professional, quick, cleaned up, & the price was reasonable, well worth it. Then, they called back within a week to ask how my service, installation was…and if they could improve anything. THAT IS EXCELLENT CUSTOMER SERVICE! cheers to them!! I highly recommend them!!See more from this reviewer on Google Amy ThompsonApril 23, 2024Very efficient and great communication.See more from this reviewer on Google Lisa SmithApril 5, 2024All employees showed up on time for the job. They were professional and courteous. They kept the work area clean. Showed and talked us through all the work as they completed each section of the job.See more from this reviewer on Google Simon MoyeApril 4, 2024From the initial call, scheduling the work, and finally the installation, Standard Insulating Company was 1st class! They were the only company that did exactly what Duke Energy recommended and didn’t try to upsell any unneeded services. Highly recommend!See more from this reviewer on Google Marty CrosbyMarch 21, 2024Standard Insulating was a pleasure to work with. The estimate was detailed, and all my questions were answered. The instillation team was very professional. They did what they said they would do, worked quickly and then showed me the results. If you need insulation work done, this is company to do it!See more from this reviewer on Google Lorraine EarleyMarch 7, 2024Very professional and accommodating!See more from this reviewer on Google Gene HayesMarch 1, 2024Standard insulation company done fantastic job installing insulation in my attic. The crew was very professional on time and quick and efficient. The price was much more reasonable than other companies that I have received estimates from more than half of some other companies So if you’re in the market for having insulation installed in your home, call them first A+++++++++. And my consultant, David was amazing as well, the company overall, was great if all companies had people like this, the world will be amazing place to do businessSee more from this reviewer on Google Joanna HutulaFebruary 23, 2024Good service is hard to find. I can’t say enough about these folks! On time, friendly, knowledgeable, polite, and they did a terrific job! And they cleaned up after themselves. What more could you want? Would definitely recommend!See more from this reviewer on Google Jerry SmithFebruary 23, 2024I was given a reasonable estimate to add R-30 insulation to my existing R-10 giving me a total of R-40. The job was scheduled in the same week I signed the contract. The installers were punctual and efficient. The work was accomplished in under 3 hours. They were clean and neat with all aspects of the job. I would highly recommend Standard Insulation. I will go back to them when I need any more insulating work done.See more from this reviewer on Google Marqolo McfaddenFebruary 18, 2024Fast, clean, and efficient!See more from this reviewer on Google Tara HeidelFebruary 16, 2024Professional, punctual, and excellent work provided. From the visit for quote to work done everything was done above our expectations. Would recommend.See more from this reviewer on Google Olivia LochnerFebruary 13, 2024Standard insulating company made our project so easy. Justin, our sales rep, was awesome and very thorough. Our project was completed within our requested short time frame which was awesome. Definitely recommend!See more from this reviewer on Google Mary HumbleFebruary 13, 2024Good, honest quote thanks so much!! Highly recommended.See more from this reviewer on Google Rolanda SlaughterFebruary 4, 2024David E. our contact person, was very friendly and thorough when he came to the house. Once he finished the lookover, he sat down and explained what needed to be done, the cost and answered any questions that we had. The workers came at the designated time. Once in the house, they laid down the plastic downstairs, upstairs to the attic and to the storage area. Then they began the work. They were very efficient in what they did; very focused. They too, were very friendly and explained things when we needed answers. I was well pleased with the outcome of the job and the least disruption that occurred while they worked.See more from this reviewer on Google Christine ThompsonFebruary 4, 2024Our salesperson, Dave, was knowledgeable, honest and actually explained why we didn’t need services we had been quoted by another company. The installers were on time, courteous, cleaned up well and did an overall great job. We noticed the improvement in temperature within 24 hours.See more from this reviewer on Google Mike WellensFebruary 3, 2024Reasonable price, friendly staff did a great job and cleaned up after themselves. Room they insulated feels better already!See more from this reviewer on Google Billie GreeneFebruary 3, 2024They were very easy to work with and did a great good!See more from this reviewer on Google Chelsea CollinsJanuary 30, 2024I had a great experience with all the folks I interacted with at this company- from walking through my home and current insulation, getting an estimate, answering my questions, scheduling the work and having the work performed. As a first time home owner and learning as I go, I felt very comfortable with my decision to go with Standard Insulating. Pricing was extremely reasonable, especially compared to other providers I received estimates from. I was happy with the work performed, and the installers were also timely, clean and walked me through the work performed to ensure it met my expectations. I highly recommend!See more from this reviewer on Google Paul PaskoffJanuary 27, 2024My experience was outstanding. From the estimator to the installers, all staff were professional and personable. The estimator took the time to explain what would be done and answered all of our questions. The installers first action was to lay plastic sheeting from the front door to the attic. They completed all the work as agreed in under 1 1/2 hours. Standard Insulating Company was recommended by my neighbor and I will recommend the Company to my friends who need insulation work on their home.See more from this reviewer on Google Chuck PilsyJanuary 23, 2024Mason and his crew were amazing In 4 hours they completely transformed my 1998 attic. I wish I had before and after pictures. They Insulated the attic space by topping off the existing insulation with new blown fiberglass and filling everything up to R50 with Owens Corning blown L77 fiberglass insulation everything i needed including any baffles/polyvents and rulers). They also Installed a full radiant barrier and a zippered stair cover. The price was very fair and much better than another one I received. They also offered different payment options and discounts with no money down and only after you approved their work. Would highly recommend them.See more from this reviewer on Google Ashley BrattonJanuary 16, 2024This company was amazing. The consultant was extremely knowledgeable and the work was completed fast. We can already tell a difference with the insulation and it was a breath of fresh air after being ripped off by other companies. Also the price was beyond reasonable.See more from this reviewer on Google Bailey CorbettJanuary 4, 2024Very professional and courteous. Did a nice job of putting down plastic to keep the house clean. Looking forward to seeing the difference this summer!See more from this reviewer on Google Judy MyersJanuary 3, 2024The crew arrived on time, they were very efficient with the insulation process and were very clean. The whole process was seamless and the communication was incredible.See more from this reviewer on Google Terry RosebrockDecember 20, 2023Excellent service received. From the quote to the installed services went smoothly. Crew was quick and clean. Rolled out plastic immediately upon entering the house.See more from this reviewer on Google Sande ADecember 11, 2023I had Standard come out to add insulation and a vapor barrier to my crawl space. They did excellent work, explained everything to me and were so friendly and professional. Would definitely use them againSee more from this reviewer on Google Abigail HastyDecember 5, 20235/5!! We had an amazing experience! Everything was quick, easy, clean and reliable! Would definitely recommend!See more from this reviewer on Google A FilkoffNovember 23, 2023We had a great experience working with American Insulating Company from start to finish. Contact with the salesman, office staff, and installers was pleasant, easy, thorough, and satisfying. We are happy with the completed job, and already have noted an extra warmth, and less use of our heater on the cold winter nights. Thanks Standard Insulating for a job well done!See more from this reviewer on Google James EpsteinNovember 22, 2023Standard insulating company did a great job for us! We had damaged and missing insulation in our crawl space. They were prompt coming out to give us an estimate. When we signed the contract we set a date for the work to be performed. The men arrived on time and did the work efficiently! Very satisfied!See more from this reviewer on Google rodney caillouetNovember 22, 2023Standard insulating of Charlotte did an excellent job installing a radiant barrier and more insulation in my attic. Our AC unit was having difficulty cooling the upstairs in the hottest part of summer, so hopefully this will help. Standard insulating was very prompt and on top of everything from start to finish!See more from this reviewer on Google Deidra Parrish WilliamsNovember 15, 2023Standard Insulating company came to my home and repaired the vapor barrier as well as replacing missing insulation in my crawlspace. They arrived on time and performed the services quickly and efficiently. They didn’t need the homeowner present. They simply took care of the necessary items, secured the crawlspace and left.See more from this reviewer on Google McKayla CooleyNovember 14, 2023Standard insulating company was very informative, professional, and efficient! They were flexible with scheduling to meet our needs. Very friendly and accommodating! Reasonably priced. Would recommend to anyone looking for insulation install.See more from this reviewer on Google Jacquelyn HelmsNovember 7, 2023I cannot recommend Standard Insulating Company highly enough. In less than 48 hours of my first contacting them, SIC had a representative out to my home to assess my insulating needs, I then received an emailed estimate of cost, and a project completed by installers who were on time and extremely professional. I can’t think of a single way my interaction with SIC could have been improved. A definite five star experience!See more from this reviewer on Google Deanna ConcidineNovember 4, 2023I am very pleased with the work that was done. Everyone was great from the first phone call to the salesman to the installers. I chose them due to their outstanding reviews and their professionalism. They gave me their suggestions and gave me a detailed quote on the spot. They arrived on time and sealed all gaps, blew in Owens Corning ProPink insulation and installed a zippered stair cover within a couple hours. They showed me pictures of the before and after and explained what they did and how to operate the stair cover and cleaned up. They were very friendly and a pleasure to work with. I highly recommend.See more from this reviewer on Google Jake MorrisonNovember 3, 2023Got new insulation in the attic along with an attic door cover. Went great and was quick to installSee more from this reviewer on Google Janelle PeckNovember 3, 2023Great company, super helpful and thorough explaining everything and keeping communication open. They were on time and very kind. Used drop tarps throughout the house and took pictures and showed us final results. Would definitely recommend!See more from this reviewer on Google Britany NapolitanoOctober 27, 2023From beginning to end, Standard was responsive and communicative. The work was thoroughly explained prior, and the actual work was punctual, done as explained, and neat. Thank you!See more from this reviewer on Google David NormanOctober 20, 2023Crew was on very professional and thorough. They arrived on time cleaned up and was done in 4 hrs.See more from this reviewer on Google Chris DembofskyOctober 20, 2023Great experience with sales, the office, and crew.See more from this reviewer on Google carin helmsOctober 19, 2023They worked quickly to get the job done, they showed up when they said they were going to show up, cleaned up afterward, very professional!See more from this reviewer on Google Jenna WilsonOctober 18, 2023Great customer service and very friendly people! Very happy with our resultsSee more from this reviewer on Google Rita SimmonsOctober 18, 2023I called Standard Insulating Company as well as two other competitors. The entire staff was both professional and personable. The cost of insulating my new home was fair and Benji explained the difference between the types of insulation I was interested in, helping me to make an informed decision. The installers were on time, worked efficently.and were very tidy. Benji stayed in touch throughout the two step process of new construction. He also went out of his way to contact my county inspector to clarify a sealed crawlspace procedure and the codes associated with it. I would use them again and will recommend them to anyone who asks me! My HVAC people were also impressed with the job when they went into the attic to start up my systemSee more from this reviewer on Google Steve GraybillOctober 17, 2023The team was prompt and did great work The left the insulated areas clean and did the work as quoted. Highly recommendSee more from this reviewer on Google Jessica AndinoOctober 14, 2023From start to finish Standard Insulating was a pleasure to work with. Justin and Cristina were readily available to answer any questions. The insulation on my house was small but the team arrived early, completed the work rather quick and walked me through the completed work. Highly recommendedSee more from this reviewer on Google Lewis GermanOctober 13, 2023Outstanding job. The crew of three were on time and exceptionally neat and tidy. When they left you would never know anyone was here to do any work. They insulated a outside wall that had absolutely no insulation in it and the temperature of that room after the job was done was noticeably different.See more from this reviewer on Google Stephanie HopsonOctober 12, 2023Contacted Standard Insulating Co to have my Attic Re-Insulated on my 1997 Townhome. David came out for the quote, he was friendly, professional and provided a Wealth of information. I am very happy with the completed work. The guys did a wonderful job, they were professional and cleaned up afterwards. Highly Recommend Standard Insulating Co!See more from this reviewer on Google   ### About Us ### Contact ### Home