Insulation FAQs

Mincin Insulation Service has been in business for more than four decades, which is why we’ve heard just about every question imaginable about insulation. Below you can read some of our most frequently asked questions. Contact our locally owned contracting business to schedule your FREE estimate.

Can I get incentives from my local utility company?

Utility companies, especially coal-fired plants, are encouraged through federal and state initiatives to support consumers and businesses who wish to use energy conservation programs. Electric co-ops, which their customers own, are incredibly proactive in helping their members’ energy-saving projects. Contact your utility company to find out what incentives are available in your area.

How do I qualify for these incentives?

Each incentive program outlines its unique requirements. If you depend on incentives, make sure you understand whether you qualify for them in advance.

How much additional insulation should be installed?

Each area of the country has different recommended R-values for insulation. Contact us to learn the Pittsburgh area’s preferred R-value.

Should existing insulation be removed?

Not always, because adding more insulation has a cumulative impact on the overall R-value. If the insulation is damaged or improperly installed in your attic, it might make sense to completely replace it with blown-in cellulose insulation in the case of batt products.

You can also add cellulose insulation to the existing insulation, thus improving the overall quality and R-value.

Contractors can install additional insulation in your walls to compress the existing material, thus filling the wall cavity with performance-enhancing cellulose insulation.

What’s the best insulation if you are in a colder climate?

Studies have shown that cellulose insulation’s performance remains stable even at frigid temperatures. Its cold-resistant qualities make it one of the best choices for insulating homes in colder climate areas.

What is “R-value?”

R-value measures resistance to heat flow through a certain thickness of the material. The higher the R-value, the more excellent its resistance. Resisting heat flow is the primary purpose of insulating, which helps lower your energy costs.

Do I also need a vapor barrier?

A vapor barrier is not recommended with cellulose insulation, except in high humidity, such as in pools and spas or in freezing climates.