Insulating Older Homes For Energy Efficiency

At Metro NY Insulation, we know older homes hold a special charm—whether it’s the detailed woodwork, the classic architecture, or the history behind every wall. But insulating older homes, and keeping them energy efficient can be tricky. If you live in New Jersey or Westchester, New York, and struggle with drafty rooms, high energy bills, or an HVAC system that’s always working overtime, we’ve got you covered!

Our cellulose and spray foam insulation solutions are designed to bring modern comfort to classic homes, without compromising their historic beauty. Let’s dive into the biggest challenges of insulating older homes and the best solutions to make your home cozier and more energy-efficient.

Challenges of Insulating Older Homes

1. Lack of Existing Insulation

Many homes built before the 1950s have little to no insulation. If you feel your home struggles to maintain a consistent temperature, it’s likely because there’s nothing inside the walls to trap heat in winter or keep cool air inside during summer.

💡 Solution: Blown-in cellulose insulation is an excellent way to add insulation to existing walls without major renovations. It’s eco-friendly, fire-resistant, and fits easily into old wall cavities without damage.

2. Air Leaks & Drafts

Older homes tend to have plenty of cracks and gaps around windows, doors, floorboards, and attic spaces. This leads to heat loss in winter and unwanted heat gain in summer, making your HVAC system work harder than necessary.

💡 Solution: Spray foam insulation acts as both insulation and an air-sealing solution. It expands to fill gaps, stopping air leaks and keeping your home comfortable year-round.

4. Moisture & Mold Concerns

Insufficient insulation can lead to moisture buildup, causing mold growth and wood rot—a major problem in historic homes.

💡 Solution: Spray foam insulation is moisture-resistant, meaning it won’t absorb water like traditional fiberglass insulation. By sealing off cracks and preventing air infiltration, it reduces the risk of mold growth.

5. Preserving Historic Integrity

For many homeowners, maintaining the original aesthetic of their older home is a top priority. You don’t want insulation upgrades to damage the walls, ceilings, or intricate woodwork.

💡 Solution: We specialize in non-invasive insulation techniques like blown-in cellulose that improve energy efficiency without altering the character of your home.