How do I know if my attic needs more insulation?

Living in Calgary means dealing with frigid winters and warm summers. But if your home feels drafty, your energy bills are high, or you’re constantly adjusting your thermostat, the problem might be right above your head—literally. Your attic may not have enough insulation.

At Crack and Attic Doctor, we help homeowners across Calgary and surrounding areas protect their homes with professional attic insulation top-ups. Let’s explore the signs that your attic might need more insulation and why it matters.


Why Attic Insulation Matters

Proper attic insulation acts like a thermal blanket for your home. It keeps heat inside during the winter and blocks excess heat in the summer. Without enough insulation, your HVAC system works harder, your bills go up, and your comfort goes down.


Top Signs Your Attic Needs More Insulation

1. Rising Energy Bills

If your heating or cooling costs keep climbing—even when energy rates haven’t changed—it could be due to heat escaping through your attic.

📉 Poor insulation = more energy loss = higher bills.


2. Uneven Temperatures in Rooms

Are some rooms freezing while others are warm? Uneven temperatures often point to inadequate insulation in the attic, especially in second-floor rooms.


3. Cold Drafts or Hot Ceilings

If your ceiling feels cold in the winter or warm in the summer, it’s a sign that insulation above isn’t doing its job. Cold drafts in upper rooms are also a red flag.


4. Ice Dams on Your Roof in Winter

Calgary winters can cause serious problems if heat escapes through your attic and melts rooftop snow. When it refreezes, it creates ice dams that can damage your roof and gutters.

🧊 Ice dams = poor attic insulation + poor ventilation


5. Insulation Below or Level with the Joists

Pop your head into your attic. If the insulation is below or barely level with the floor joists, it’s time for a top-up.

✔️ In Alberta, it’s recommended to have R-50 insulation (about 16–18 inches of blown-in material).


6. Old or Compressed Insulation

Insulation naturally settles and degrades over time, especially in older homes. Moisture, pests, or even foot traffic during renovations can reduce its effectiveness.


7. Frequent HVAC Use

If your furnace or AC is constantly running, it might be working overtime to compensate for heat loss through the attic.


What You Should Do

If you notice any of the above signs, it’s time for a professional attic inspection. At Crack and Attic Doctor, we’ll:

  • Measure your current insulation depth

  • Check for signs of moisture or mold

  • Recommend the best insulation top-up for your home

  • Improve attic ventilation if needed


Serving Calgary and Surrounding Areas

We proudly serve homeowners in:
Calgary | Cochrane | Airdrie | Chestermere | Conrich | Okotoks | High River


📞 Book Your Free Inspection Today

Crack and Attic Doctor
🏢 Office: #715, 100 4th Avenue SW, Calgary, Alberta
📞 (403)-321-2623
📧 crackandatticdoctor@gmail.com
🔗 Get a Free Attic Repair Quote


Your attic might be out of sight—but it shouldn’t be out of mind.
Let our experts help you save money, stay warm, and protect your home.