A home needs insulation in order to function properly. Thermal insulation helps regulate the temperature inside the home. It can help prevent ice from forming on the roof and can keep mold and mildew from growing inside the home. Insulation may also be used for soundproofing. Technological advances have made insulation more energy efficient and homeowners now have a wide variety of choices and price points. Some home insulation projects are easy to DIY and some may benefit from a professional installer. Regardless of which route you choose, keeping your insulation project on schedule is an important part of keeping your costs down.
Create a budget and timeline for the project
When interviewing insulation contractors, you’ll want to get an accurate bid or quote for the project along with an estimated timeline for installation. Some installation projects are very quick and some may be more involved. If you are simply replacing or adding to your attic insulation, for example, your quote should include the removal of ineffective insulation, installation of new materials and any other fixes that may need to get done. If you need to remove sections of your wall, re-route electrical or create more energy-efficient rooms, your project might take longer. Having a detailed conversation with your contractor, as well as having a paper trail of the scope of work, will ensure that you know the overall time schedule.
If you plan on doing the insulation work yourself, be sure you have a solid understanding of the type of work that needs to be performed. Make sure you have set enough time aside to prep the area, order materials and have proper access to your work space.
Materials may take time
Insulation is offered in a variety of material weights and types. Your contractor may recommend a specific brand or quality of insulation; or you may choose to purchase your own from the building supply company. Regardless of your method, be sure you understand if there is a lead time for receiving insulation to the project site. Additionally, ask how long it will take to re-order materials in case you come up short.
Communicate regularly to ensure timeliness
For more lengthy projects, communicate regularly with your contractor or crew to make sure the project is going according to plan. If the schedule appears to be deviating from the initial plan, be sure you find out why and if there is the ability to make up lost time. Finding out where the delays are can help ensure heading off issues before they become major problems.
Verify the contractor’s schedule
Check their schedule and your own to make sure there is ample time for your project. If it’s during the busy season, schedule projects a little earlier.
Permits take time
If you simply need to replace or add to your existing insulation, and won’t be moving walls or making structural changes, it is likely you will not require a permit. However, many remodeling projects, as well as mechanical (HVAC) projects, do require a permit. Start your project by checking with your local planning and development agency to determine if your particular project requires a permit. The scope of your project will determine the type of project as well as how long it will take to get the permit. Some permit offices are affected by seasonal influences so allow yourself plenty of time.
Top image credit: Improveit! Home Remodeling
