1. Not Enough Insulation (Low R-Value)

The Problem:

Many older Michigan homes still have R-19 or R-30 insulation, far below today’s recommended standards.

What Michigan Homes Actually Need:

Current building science recommends:

R-49 to R-60 for attics in Southwest Michigan.

Why This Matters:

Low insulation levels lead to:

• Heat escaping in winter

• Hot attic air infiltrating the home in summer

• Constant HVAC cycling

• High energy bills

The Fix:

Blown-in cellulose or spray foam upgrades that bring total insulation depth up to 16–20 inches depending on material.

2. Skipping Air Sealing Before Adding Insulation

The Problem:

Many contractors simply blow insulation over existing leaks, trapping air movement underneath.

Common Air Leaks:

• Top plates

• Electrical penetrations

• Plumbing stacks

• Bath fans

• Chimney chases

• Attic hatches

Why This Matters:

Without air sealing:

• Warm air escapes into attic

• Cold drafts enter living space

• Moisture migrates into attic

• Mold risk increases

The Fix:

Professional attic air sealing before installing new insulation — sealing all penetrations with foam and specialized materials.

At Greenshield, we treat air sealing as a critical step, not an add-on.

3. Blocking Attic Ventilation

The Problem:

Improper insulation installation often blocks soffit vents, preventing airflow.

Why Ventilation Matters:

Proper attic ventilation:

• Controls moisture

• Prevents mold growth

• Regulates attic temperature

• Extends roof lifespan

• Prevents ice dams

Common Mistake:

Insulation blown directly into soffit areas, blocking airflow.

The Fix:

Installing proper eave baffles (vent chutes) before insulating.

This allows:

• Fresh air intake

• Proper airflow path

• Healthy attic ventilation

4. Uneven Insulation Coverage

The Problem:

Many attics have:

• Deep insulation in some areas

• Bare spots in others

Why This Matters:

Even small uncovered areas create:

• Major heat loss

• Cold spots

• Drafty rooms

The Fix:

Professional installation using:

• Depth markers

• Coverage mapping

• Uniform distribution techniques

5. Using the Wrong Insulation Material

The Problem:

Not all insulation performs equally in Michigan’s climate.

Common Mistakes:

• Fiberglass batts installed loosely

• Inadequate air control

• Improper vapor management

Best Attic Insulation Options for Michigan:

• Blown-in cellulose – excellent thermal performance + air control

• Open-cell spray foam – superior air sealing + insulation

• Closed-cell spray foam – maximum R-value + vapor control

Choosing the right material depends on:

• Attic layout

• Roof design

• Ventilation system

• Budget

• Performance goals

6. Ignoring Moisture & Condensation Issues

The Problem:

Moisture problems often exist before insulation upgrades, but are ignored.

Warning Signs:

• Mold

• Frost buildup

• Wet insulation

• Roof sheathing discoloration

Why This Is Dangerous:

Moisture leads to:

• Mold growth

• Structural damage

• Reduced insulation performance

The Fix:

Proper:

• Air sealing

• Vapor management

• Ventilation design

• Moisture assessment

7. Poor Installation Quality

The Problem:

Low-quality installs often:

• Miss critical areas

• Compress insulation

• Leave gaps

• Fail to seal penetrations

Why Professional Installation Matters:

Even premium materials perform poorly if installed incorrectly.

Professional insulation contractors ensure:

• Proper depth

• Uniform coverage

• Air sealing

• Ventilation preservation

How Much Can Proper Attic Insulation Save You?

Most Michigan homeowners see:

Over 10 years, many homeowners save thousands of dollars in energy costs.