Here in the heart of the Midwest, Michigan residents know all too well the challenges posed by extreme weather. From bone-chilling winters under the grip of the Polar Vortex to sticky, humid summers, our homes undergo a seasonal rollercoaster. As winter temperatures often plummet below zero and summer temperatures increasingly soar into the 90s, the insulation needs of your Michigan home become crucial for maintaining comfort and energy efficiency year-round.
The Polar Vortex Effect – Bracing for Subzero Cold
We know Michigan winters are not for the faint of heart. With average lows sinking below 20°F and occasionally plunging into subzero territory, a home that’s not properly insulated can feel like an icebox. Factor in the relentless winds that whip across the landscape, driving wind chills to bone-chilling levels, and your poorly insulated attic, crawl space, Michigan basement, and walls can become major culprits for heat loss. The result? An HVAC system working overtime to keep up, leading to sky-high energy bills and a home that still feels drafty despite the constant running of your furnace.
The Emerging Era of Muggy Michigan Summers
On the flip side comes summer. Over time, climate change is bringing longer and hotter summers, transforming Michigan into a seasonal sauna. Sustained highs in the 80’s and 90’s coupled with oppressive humidity levels often make the use of your AC a necessity for longer periods of the year. Unfortunately, inadequate insulation only exacerbates the issue, forcing your cooling system to work harder and driving up your energy costs. Before you know it, you find yourself trapped in a cycle where your home feels like an oven despite the constant hum of your AC unit. It’s time to give your overworked HVAC unit and wallet a break during the summer months!
Addressing Michigan’s Bi-polar Insulation Needs
As a Michigan resident, you know it’s important to dress for the weather. But do you do the same for your home? There are several proactive steps you should take to help combat Michigan’s insulation conundrum and give your HVAC unit a much-needed rest.
- Assess and enhance the insulation levels throughout your home. Call on an insulation professional to evaluate where you should add insulation and how much you’ll need.
- Prevent air leakage with proper air sealing to significantly impact the energy efficiency and comfort of your home or business. Consider installing spray foam insulation for a two-in-one solution that insulates and air seals in one step.
- Don’t overlook your attic. Your attic is one of the most important places to insulate your home. To provide adequate thermal protection, ensure your attic insulation meets the recommended insulation R-value of R-60.
- Choose vapor-permeable types of insulation, such as fiberglass or cellulose insulation, to ensure moisture doesn’t become trapped within your walls, mitigating the risk of mold and mildew growth.
Embracing the Diversity of Michigan Weather
The beauty of Michigan lies in its diversity throughout each season, creating a wide array of seasonal activities and adventures. And loving Michigan is getting to know Michigan and its changing weather, so you’re prepared for anything Mother Nature throws your way.
Two indispensable allies that have prevailed in the battle against Michigan’s unpredictable climate are insulation and air sealing. By evaluating and improving your home’s insulation levels and addressing air leakage, you can create a home that is comfortable, efficient, and resilient against the state’s bi-polar weather patterns. Not only does proper insulation save you money on energy bills, but it also enhances the overall livability and lovability of your home. You can rest assured that whether it’s the biting cold of winter or the sweltering heat of summer, you can find sanctuary within your properly insulated haven.
At Whitson Insulation Company, we’ve been creating comfortable and energy efficient homes across western Michigan since 1978. We ensure maximum home energy efficiency with our expert insulation services. Local homeowners, builders, and contractors count on us for exemplary products and service every time and you can too. Contact us today to learn more about our insulation services for your western Michigan home or business.