It’s not uncommon for homeowners to want to do home improvement projects on their own. There's a sense of accomplishment that comes with learning how to do something difficult and doing the job yourself. However, it’s important to know when you’ve either reached your limitations or a job simply needs a professional. At St. Louis Insulation, we can help you weigh your options either way when it comes to deciding for hiring home insulation installers or take the DIY approach. Read our guide below where we highlight a few things that you should consider when making your decision.
Where are you installing insulation?
There are certain areas of your home that are easier to access than others when you’re installing insulation. Your attic can be one of the easier locations to do a DIY insulation installation because you can cut fiberglass batts into the sizes that you need and lay them down where they belong. Your walls are a different story, though, as you’ll likely have to cut into the walls to properly install either foam injection or take out entire sections for fiberglass. This is an invasive process and it’s highly recommended that you hire a professional insulation installer.
What kind of insulation are you using?
While installing insulation in some areas of your home might be easier than others, you still need to be careful with it. For instance, fiberglass can be dangerous if handled incorrectly and the fibers are inhaled. What’s more, spray and injectable foam often requires the work of a professional to ensure that the proper amount is used for the area where it’s being installed.
What’s the state of the original insulation?
Old insulation that’s been exposed to moisture can often be covered in mold. Again, this can be harmful if not handled properly and it’s inhaled. An insulation professional will have the necessary equipment to protect themselves and your home from inhalation. Beyond the insulation, it’s important to assess the state of the materials around the insulation. The drywall and framing of your home could also have significant damage from mold and need to be replaced. This is something you might miss if you’re doing the job on your own.
Does the installation fit into your schedule?
A nice perk about DIY projects is that you can complete the job on your schedule. You don’t have to wait to schedule an appointment with a busy contractor who might be booked out months from now. That being said, you need to consider what your schedule looks like. You might also be incredibly busy in the coming weeks or months and never get to the project. This can sometimes lead to projects that get started but are never quite finished as you run into a snag that slows you down or something comes up as you’re working. It might take time to book a contractor, but the project will be done when they say it will be.
What’s your budget?
Consider your budget when weighing your options between DIY and hiring home insulation installers. Yes, your base costs will be lower by doing it yourself, but you must also consider the learning curve you’ll experience with the installation and the extra costs that will be incurred should anything go wrong. A contractor is experienced and there aren’t as likely to be additional costs when your installation is performed.
Get in touch to learn more
If you’d like more information about hiring professional home insulation installers, reach out to us at St. Louis Insulation. You can give us a call at 314-334-0153 or send an email to support@stlouisinsulation.com. We look forward to speaking with you about your insulation needs and helping you create a more comfortable environment in your home.