11-14-2012, 04:15 PM
Blown in cellulose is excellent insulation. Before it goes in, have them attach sticks adjacent to the pipes that will stick up above the insulation and show you where the pipes are. Also take photographs of the pipes before the insulation job.
As mentioned above, it is critical to make sure all attic vents are protected before installation. Also, it is critical to have the contractor seal all plumbing and electrical lines that pass through the attic floor using impermeable material (i.e. aerosol foam, NOT stuffed in insulation). This will make the insulation job much more effective. Make them pull up your old insulation to check all the lines. Lazy contractors won't do these things because they will be hidden after the insulation is installed.
One more thing...since you live in Texas, you probably have the issue of too much heat in the summer, right? Insulation will be only marginally effective against that. Have them install radiant barrier between the rafters above the insulation. That will keep a lot of the heat out. Also, have them check to be sure your attic is adequately vented. Poor venting makes all of that insulation virtually useless during the summer.
As mentioned above, it is critical to make sure all attic vents are protected before installation. Also, it is critical to have the contractor seal all plumbing and electrical lines that pass through the attic floor using impermeable material (i.e. aerosol foam, NOT stuffed in insulation). This will make the insulation job much more effective. Make them pull up your old insulation to check all the lines. Lazy contractors won't do these things because they will be hidden after the insulation is installed.
One more thing...since you live in Texas, you probably have the issue of too much heat in the summer, right? Insulation will be only marginally effective against that. Have them install radiant barrier between the rafters above the insulation. That will keep a lot of the heat out. Also, have them check to be sure your attic is adequately vented. Poor venting makes all of that insulation virtually useless during the summer.