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I have a 1940 brick home. My walls have no insulation and are cold. Is it best to insulate them from the inside? David, Canton, MI
Insulating the home from the inside should only be done if the home is being remodeled for other reasons. Even then it's usually not the best method. The proper way is to drill small holes within the mortar joints between bricks. After the insulation is blow into the wall cavities the mortar is repaired to its prior condition. - Murray
My basement is damp in the summer. I run a dehumidifier most of the time. I had all my foundation leaks and drainage repaired and the problem still exists. How can I stop the humidity other than dehumidify? Carol, Southfield, MI
Excessive humidity is commonly caused by excessive air changes of the building. As this cycle occurs, the warm moisture latent outdoor air is drawn into the cool basement increasing the relative humidity. The faster the air changes the harder it becomes to condition the space, as the same is true for heating and cooling. Insulating, sealing and proper venting of the building can resolve this problem. - Murray
Will ice & water shield installed on my roof resolve my ice dam problems? Mark, Wayne, Mi
It may stop water intrusion caused by ice dams, however, the root cause is usually attic insulation and ventilation deficiencies. This problem left un-resolved can lead to water damage and an early roof replacement. - Murray
I recently had a home inspection done on a home that I’m considering for purchase. The home inspector said that I needed more ventilation in my attic. What type of ventilation do you recommend? Joe, From Grandblanc, MI
Proper attic ventilation is critical to keep the insulation dry for peek performance as well as to prevent condensation and ice dams. Ventilation needs vary with ceiling, roof and eave design as well as other conditions. Vents also vary by style, type and CFM (cubic feet per minute) of free airflow. Your ventilation system should be designed by someone who has an excellent grasp of the different types of vents available and how they perform as well as quanity and location of these vents. One last thought, with proper ventilation your shingles will last longer and will help deter mold growth in the attic. - Murray
What insulation R-values should we try to achieve in our home? John B. Bloomfield Hills, MI
R-values can be misleading. Most energy waste is due to excessive air leaks throughout the house, which result in a high rate of unnecessary air change. Some insulation types such as fiberglass has been proven to loose its R-value as the temperature differential from in-doors to outdoors increases. There for, it is best to use insulation products which provide stable effective R-values such as cellulose, while paying close attention to details to provide a good seal at all critical points within your home. - Murray
Murray will cellulose insulation settle over time? Mary, Marine City, MI.
If blown in too fluffy in the attic or wall cavities the chances of settling are likely. I asked Ken at Kenco how they prevent this problem. Kenco uses only direct pressure industrial blowing machines allowing nominal settling of attic insulation while wall cavities and enclosed spaces are filled @ 2 times greater density than the weight of the insulation, making it impossible to settle without other causes such as direct water intrusion. - Murray
I currently have fiberglass insulation in my attic. Should it be removed prior to re-insulating? Carol, Hills Dale
Unless your existing insulation contains unsafe levels of asbestos or is contaminated with mold, rodent feces, etc., it is not necessary or cost effect to remove all the existing insulation. However, removal is required at all critical points to achieve a healthy and effective air seal and thermo barrier. - Murray
My son has health problems with allergies and asthma. What insulation products do you recommend? Greg, Southfield, MI
Cellulose insulation is best, but only when it contains all borate blended fire retardants. It is EPA registered for mold resistance and passes all Healthy Home tests sponsored by the American Lung Association. - Murray
What type of insulation do you recommend for my home? John, Thank You, Upland Hills, MI
Although they offer most leading products, in most cases they will recommend blown or sprayed cellulose insulation for new and existing homes. When cellulose is installed it fills stud & joist cavities 100% leaving no voids or gaps as most other insulations do. It is made from recycled paper. It’s stable unlike some foam products that break down over time. It’s healthy unlike mineral products like fiberglass, known as class one carcinogens. When installed correctly it substantially reduces air infiltration saving you energy and money.- Murray
Ask Murray...
For years, Metro Detroit has relied on Murray Gula and his firsthand knowledge of home improvement. Now Murray has brought together a team to help you with your home improvement problems. To find someone who can help, select a category from the list on the left, or click here to ask Murray a question!
