With Northeast Arkansas hitting the mid-90s this week, homeowners are asking: why is my upstairs so hot even with the AC cranked up?
Here are the dead giveaways that your attic insulation isn't doing its job. Ice dams in winter (yeah, we get them in Jonesboro too). Huge temperature swings between floors โ your main level feels fine but the bedrooms upstairs are sweltering. Electric bills that spike 40-50% in summer months.
Walk up to your attic access and feel around the opening. If you feel hot or cold air leaking through, that's air sealing issues. Peek inside with a flashlight โ can you see your ceiling joists? If so, you're probably sitting at R-19 or less. Arkansas climate zone 3A calls for R-38 to R-49 minimum.
Older homes in Trumann and Paragould often have 6 inches of blown fiberglass or cellulose that's settled over 20+ years. What started as R-30 might be performing at R-20 now. Add air leaks around recessed lights, bathroom fans, and attic penetrations, and you're losing serious money.
The fix? Air sealing first, then bringing your insulation up to current code. Most jobs run $2.50-4.50 per square foot depending on access and existing conditions.
Reply or DM us for a free attic inspection โ we'll measure what you have and show you exactly where you're losing energy.