Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
1. What are the benefits of attic insulation?
Proper attic insulation helps reduce energy costs, improves indoor comfort and extends the lifespan of your HVAC system by preventing heat loss in the winter and heat gain in the summer.
2. How do I know if my attic needs more insulation?
If your home has uneven temperatures, high energy bills or drafty rooms, you may have inadequate insulation. The U.S. Department of Energy recommends a minimum of R49 insulation for most Illinois homes. However, in certain conditions—such as extreme cold climates, high energy loss or older homes with poor insulation—R60 may be recommended for optimal efficiency and comfort.
3. Do you offer free attic inspections?
Yes! We provide free attic inspections and estimates to assess your insulation levels and recommend the best solution for your home. As part of our inspection, we will provide extensive photographs of our findings, and if requested, we can also create a comprehensive written report detailing the assessment and recommendations.
4. What type of insulation do you install?
We specialize in blown-in fiberglass insulation, which provides excellent coverage, energy efficiency and long-term durability. In areas without drywall—such as attics, room additions, basements and crawl spaces—we also install traditional rolled batt insulation, available with or without a vapor barrier. Our team will evaluate your space and recommend the best insulation type to maximize comfort and energy efficiency.
5. How long does the installation process take?
Most attic insulation projects are completed within a few hours. However, if insulation removal is required, the attic has limited space, the home is particularly large or unforeseen circumstances arise, the process can take significantly longer. We strive to provide an accurate time estimate during the inspection and estimate process, so you know what to expect before work begins.
6. Will attic insulation help with ice dams and frost in the attic?
Yes! Proper insulation plays a critical role in preventing ice dams and frost buildup in attic spaces. Ice dams occur when heat escapes from the home into the attic, causing snow on the roof to melt and refreeze at the edges, leading to potential roof damage and leaks. Adequate insulation reduces this heat loss, helping to maintain a more consistent roof temperature and preventing ice dams from forming.
Similarly, frost buildup in the attic happens when warm, moist air from the living space rises and condenses on cold surfaces. Proper insulation, combined with sufficient ventilation, minimizes this issue by keeping attic temperatures stable and reducing moisture buildup. Addressing these concerns with the right insulation can help protect your home’s structure, improve energy efficiency and extend the lifespan of your roof and HVAC system.
7. Do you remove old or contaminated insulation?
Yes, we provide complete insulation removal, regardless of the type of insulation currently in place. Whether your insulation is outdated, damaged or contaminated, we will safely and thoroughly remove it before installing new material.
If there is evidence of animal activity, such as nesting materials, droppings or entry points, those issues must be addressed before we proceed with removal. While we will clean up and sanitize affected areas, the infestation or intrusion must be resolved beforehand to prevent recurring problems. We can advise on the necessary steps and provide recommendations to ensure your attic is properly sealed and ready for new insulation.
8. How can I schedule an inspection?
You can schedule an inspection by calling 630-445-9988 or filling out the contact form on our website.
9. What areas do you service?
We are based in Bartlett, IL and generally service areas within a 20-25 mile radius. This includes many surrounding suburbs and communities. In some cases, we can make exceptions for locations outside our standard service area, depending on the job type. We can typically determine whether we can accommodate your location during the initial consultation before scheduling an inspection. If you’re unsure whether we service your area, feel free to reach out and we’ll be happy to discuss your specific needs.
10. Should I use another company?
Well, you could… but why take the risk? Sure, you might find someone else, but will they care about your home’s comfort like we do? Will they provide extensive photos, a thorough inspection and top-quality insulation that keeps you warm in winter and cool in summer? Maybe… but do you really want to roll the dice on that?
At AARCO – American Attic Re-Insulation Company, we take insulation seriously (so you don’t have to). Give us a call—we’ll make sure your attic is properly insulated and your energy bills stay low so you never have to wonder “Did I make the right choice?” again.
