Heating and air conditioning systems work hard to keep the temperature within the home steady, no matter what is going on outside. In order to keep the indoors comfortable, the exterior walls must be properly insulated. Otherwise, you better believe that the precious conditioned air will, quite literally, slip through the cracks. Despite its importance, poor attic insulation is one of the most overlooked home maintenance issues. If you notice any of these four signs, it may be time to call an attic insulation contractor.

Room temperature that changes between floors. If the downstairs feels like a perfect spring day but the upstairs feels like the tundra, it’s likely that the insulation in your attic is inadequate. Keeping a consistent, comfortable temperature is especially important for parents of babies and young children who can be sensitive to fluctuating climates.

Frost does not stay on your roof like it does on the neighbors’. Next time it is cold enough for frost, and direct sunlight is not a factor, if your neighbor's roof has a layer of frost (or snow) and your's doesn't, it could be that heat is leaving through the roof causing it to melt.

Lots of unexplained coughing and sniffling. Yes, you can be allergic to your home! Older insulation is prone to water damage and subsequent mold growth. Especially in the winter when the house is closed up, moldy insulation may cause allergy symptoms. This is a very sneaky sign that the insulation needs a onceover, as mold is not always evident.

Unusually high energy bills. Have you noticed that your gas or electricity bills are particularly costly this winter? Consider the possibility that inadequate, old or damaged insulation is to blame. When your AC system has to put out more energy to do its job, you pay.

Though a visual inspection of insulation is generally safe, leave the attic insulation and ventilation assessment to a professional contractor, as certain types of insulation (especially when moldy) can be dangerous to your health. Winter is a good time to use thermal imaging to see where heat may be escaping from your home. There should be at least 20 degrees difference between the inside air and outside for better results.

Stay cozy!

God is our refuge and strength, an ever-present help.... Psalm 40:1