HEARING SOUNDS IN YOUR ATTIC CAN MEAN TROUBLE
During the winter, Chicago-area homeowners tend to notice things they didn’t during warmer months. Have you started hearing scratching sounds, thumping, or movement above the ceiling? Don’t ignore sounds in your attic! You may have also noticed certain rooms feel colder, even though the furnace is running constantly, leading to higher energy bills without a clear cause.
ARE YOU SHARING YOUR HOME WITH CRITTERS?
In many cases, the source of such sounds in the attic are due to wildlife infestations. Wildlife critters may have pick your attic for shelter during winter and a cozy nesting space for their offspring.
Attics are one of the most common places for wildlife to settle, especially as temperatures drop. Squirrels, raccoons, mice, and even birds look for warm, quiet shelter. Insulation makes perfect nesting material, and once animals get inside, they rarely leave things the way they found them.
Winter is often when these problems become noticeable because homes are sealed tightly. With windows closed and ventilation reduced, attic-related issues become more obvious, and animal activity is easier to hear in the quiet of winter nights.
THE DAMAGE ANIMALS CAN DO IS SIGNIFICANT
Long after animals move on, the evidence remains. Insulation can be packed down, torn apart, or contaminated by droppings and nesting debris. These materials don’t just reduce the effectiveness of insulation — they can also affect the air quality inside the home. As warm air rises through the house in winter, it can carry airborne irritants from the attic into living spaces below.
Many homeowners are surprised to learn that damaged or contaminated insulation cannot simply be covered with new material. Once insulation has been compromised, it loses much of its insulating value. The safest and most effective solution is careful removal of the hazardous materials, followed by deep cleaning and disinfecting the attic surfaces before new insulation is installed.
WITH 30 YEARS OF EXPERIENCE WE KNOW WHAT NEEDS TO BE DONE
If you’ve been hearing unexplained noises, especially at night, your attic may be occupied by unwanted guests. An inspection can help determine exactly what is happening in your attic.
IF YOUR ATTIC IS INFESTED
Attic Experts provides attic decontamination services, contaminated insulation removal, and re-insulation services for homeowners throughout the Chicago suburbs.
We first work with professional wildlife removal experts to safely and carefully remove and relocate critters. Next, we conduct a thorough attic inspection of your attic including the condition of existing insulation, signs of contamination, and whether entry points need to be sealed to help prevent animals from returning. After contaminated materials are removed, the attic can be decontaminated and re-insulated so the space is healthier and more energy efficient.
Scheduling a FREE inspection now can help prevent bigger problems later and make your home more comfortable for the rest of the winter. Call us today at 630.941.3800 to schedule and inspection today!