Best Insulation for Attics: How to Choose the Right Option

If your home feels drafty in the winter or stifling in the summer, your attic could be the reason. Attic insulation plays one of the biggest roles in your home’s comfort, efficiency, and even the lifespan of your HVAC system. The good news? The right insulation can make a huge difference, and it’s not always about starting over. Sometimes, it’s about knowing what you already have, what’s missing, and which upgrade will actually pay off. 

Here’s how to choose the best insulation for your attic, understand when replacement is needed, and see how professional blown-in insulation can help seal in comfort all year long. 

Why Attic Insulation Matters 

According to the U.S. Department of Energy, up to 25% of a home’s heat loss happens through the attic. That means poor insulation doesn’t just affect comfort; it drives up energy bills and makes your HVAC system work harder than it should. 

Proper attic insulation helps: 

• Maintain even indoor temperatures year-round 

• Reduce strain on your heating and cooling system 

• Improve indoor air quality by minimizing drafts and dust 

• Lower monthly energy costs 

• Keep your home quieter by dampening outside noise 

Even newer homes can benefit from an upgrade if the original insulation has compacted, become damp, or wasn’t installed correctly. 

Types of Attic Insulation 

Every attic is a little different, so the “best” insulation depends on your goals, budget, and what’s already there. Here’s a breakdown of the most common options and where each one works best. 

1. Fiberglass Batt Insulation 

These familiar pink or yellow rolls are one of the most affordable types of insulation. They work well in open attics with standard joist spacing but can leave gaps if not fitted precisely around beams and wiring. Over time, batt insulation can also settle or shift, reducing effectiveness. 

2. Blown-In (Loose-Fill) Fiberglass or Cellulose 

This is one of the most effective ways to insulate an attic, especially if your space has tight corners, low clearance, or existing insulation that needs to be topped off.
Professionals use specialized equipment to blow the insulation evenly across the attic floor, creating a dense thermal blanket that seals small cracks and gaps. 

At Paschal Air, Plumbing & Electric, we install high-quality blown-in fiberglass insulation designed to maintain its R-value over time. It’s non-combustible, moisture-resistant, and built for long-term performance, helping you save energy without sacrificing comfort. 

3. Spray Foam Insulation 

Spray foam provides a high R-value and excellent air sealing, but isn’t the best fit for every attic. It’s more expensive, can complicate future roof or wiring work, and may not be ideal for homes that already have adequate floor insulation. Often, combining air sealing with blown-in fiberglass insulation achieves similar efficiency at a lower cost and with fewer complications. 

4. Radiant Barriers 

Radiant barriers reflect heat instead of absorbing it, making them a good add-on for homes in warmer regions. They’re most effective when paired with another insulation type to prevent heat buildup and improve cooling efficiency. 

For an in-depth look at insulation performance, visit the Energy Star guide to attic insulation. 

Signs It’s Time to Upgrade Your Attic Insulation 

You don’t have to guess whether your insulation is doing its job. Here are common signs it may need to be replaced or supplemented: 

• Uneven temperatures between rooms or floors 

• Energy bills that keep rising despite regular HVAC tune-ups 

• Visible gaps, exposed beams, or compressed insulation in the attic 

• Drafts or hot spots near ceilings 

• Musty or damp smells coming from the attic 

If any of this sounds familiar, it’s worth scheduling a professional evaluation. The Environmental Protection Agency recommends checking attic insulation every few years to make sure it still meets modern efficiency standards. 

What Happens During a Professional Insulation Service 

When you schedule attic insulation service with Paschal Air, Plumbing & Electric, our experts will: 

1. Inspect your attic’s insulation depth, ventilation, and air sealing 
2. Identify any gaps, leaks, or moisture issues 
3. Recommend the right R-value and insulation type for your home 
4. Professionally install blown-in fiberglass insulation for even coverage and lasting efficiency 
5. Clean up thoroughly so your attic — and the rest of your home — stays spotless 

The Benefits of Blown-In Attic Insulation 

Choosing blown-in fiberglass insulation comes with major advantages: 

• Energy savings: It reduces heating and cooling costs year-round 

• Comfort: Helps maintain consistent temperatures throughout your home 

• Quiet: Damps outside noise for a more peaceful indoor space 

• Durability: Won’t settle, shrink, or degrade as quickly as other materials 

• Eco-friendliness: Made from recycled glass and free of harsh chemicals 

Plus, unlike batt or spray foam insulation, blown-in materials can often be installed over existing insulation, making it one of the simplest and most cost-effective upgrades. 

Professional People. Professional Service. 

Whether your home is decades old or brand new, upgrading your attic insulation can transform your comfort and energy efficiency. 

Paschal Air, Plumbing & Electric provides expert attic insulation inspection, air sealing, and blown-in insulation installation backed by decades of trusted service. 

If you’ve noticed rising energy bills, uneven temperatures, or just want to make your home more efficient, it may be time to take a closer look at your attic. 

Learn more about attic insulation from the U.S. Department of Energy, or contact Paschal Air, Plumbing & Electric today to schedule your professional attic insulation evaluation and see how much comfort you could be missing out on.