Banker, Author at Banker Insulation

Andrew Schlechty Earns Quarterly “ExCEEd on the Job” Award

We’re excited to announce that one of our own, Andrew Schlechty, a member of our Snowflake, Arizona team, has been awarded the prestigious quarterly ExCEEd on the Job award from Owens Corning™, the industry leader in advanced insulation solutions.

This accolade is part of a quarterly and annual award program that recognizes insulation installers’ excellence in maintaining the high standards of the Owens Corning™ Certified Energy Expert® (CEE) program. Recipients of this honor are individuals who demonstrate exceptional commitment to customer service and quality, adhere to top industry standards, and consistently deliver excellence in every project.

Andrew easily exemplifies these qualities. He is always the first to arrive on the job site, setting a positive example for his team. His meticulous attention to detail ensures that every project receives glowing reviews from satisfied customers. Homeowners and contractors frequently request Andrew specifically, a testament to his outstanding work ethic and expertise.

Andrew takes immense pride in the appearance and organization of his job sites, often exceeding expectations. As a team leader, he tackles challenging tasks and supports his colleagues, fostering a culture of excellence. His leadership has been pivotal to the success of Banker Insulation, with his projects consistently earning five-star reviews.

Andrew’s dedication goes beyond technical proficiency; he genuinely cares about customer satisfaction. His exemplary performance reflects the core values of the Owens Corning™ Certified Energy Expert® program and the mission of Banker Insulation and sets a high standard for his fellow teammates.

When one member of our Banker team celebrates, we all celebrate. Congratulations Andrew for a job well done! We appreciate your commitment to excellence and our Snowflake community.

Essential Guide to Quick Insulation Tips in Arizona & New Mexico

In the unique climates of Arizona and New Mexico, proper insulation plays a crucial role in regulating indoor…

Easy Tips to Boost Your Home’s Comfort and Slash Energy Bills

In the unique climates of Arizona and New Mexico, proper insulation plays a crucial role in regulating indoor temperatures and saving energy. By creating an effective barrier against heat transfer, insulation can dramatically improve your home’s comfort while significantly reducing energy costs, especially in regions known for extreme temperature swings.

The Importance of Insulation in the Desert Southwest

The Southwest presents specific challenges for you and fellow homeowners: scorching summers, surprisingly cold winters, and unique building materials like adobe. Insulation acts as a thermal barrier, keeping your home cool in summer and warm in winter.

While insulation helps keep your home comfortable year-round, it offers a host of other benefits that you and your wallet will appreciate.

Less strain on your HVAC system. Insulation allows your heating and cooling system to work less.
Lower energy bills. Less stress on your AC means less money you have to pay each month in energy costs.
Potential tax incentives and rebates for energy upgrades. Get rewarded for improving your home’s energy efficiency.
Increased home value. An energy efficient home with quality insulation and energy upgrades is always a big deal to eco-friendly buyers.

Have an Energy Audit Done–Your First Step to Savings

A professional energy audit is invaluable for identifying hidden air leaks and insulation gaps, assessing your current insulation’s effectiveness, and determining if it meets the recommended R-value for your home state.

At Banker Insulation, our Chandler location offers expert home energy audits to help you prioritize energy-saving solutions. Our professionals use tools like blower door tests and infrared scanners to detect energy inefficiencies and provide tailored recommendations for energy upgrades.

Selecting the Right Insulation for Your Home

When choosing insulation, focus on the R-value–a measure of insulation’s ability to resist heat flow. Higher R-values generally provide better insulation, especially in the extreme climate of Arizona and New Mexico. Every state has been placed into one or more designated climate zones that have certain insulation R-value recommendations for every part of your home including your attic, walls, floors, ceilings, basement and/or crawl space. See table (right) for recommended R-values in our region.

There are a variety of effective insulation materials available to you. Many homeowners often use more than one type of insulation for the different parts of their home. Check with your installer to see which types of insulation they offer. Some of the popular insulation types include:

Blown-in: Cellulose is an eco-friendly choice made of recycled paper products and great for filling gaps, while fiberglass insulation is budget friendly and versatile.
Insulation batts: Batts can be made of fiberglass or mineral wool that snugly fits between wall studs and ceiling joists.
Spray Foam: Open-cell and closed-cell spray foam insulation offers excellent air sealing and insulating and high R-value.

Suggested Insulation R-Values for Arizona & New Mexico
Location	Arizona	New Mexico
Attic	R38 to R60	R38 to R60
Walls	R13 to R20	R20
Ceilings	R38 to R49	R38 to R49
Floors	R13 to R30	R19 to R30

Why Professional Installation Matters

While DIY insulation may seem tempting, professional installation ensures maximum efficiency and safety. Experts have the tools, experience, and protective gear necessary to handle various insulation materials properly and ensure seamless and effective installation. This includes wearing a dust mask and long-sleeved clothing when working with fiberglass insulation, and using a utility knife for precise cuts to guarantee insulation snugly fits in all spaces.

A professional insulation company like Banker Insulation will walk you through every step of the installation process and work with you to choose the right insulation materials for your home. You can have peace of mind that your insulation is installed right the first time, for maximum effectiveness, when you trust the job to a professional.

Partner with Arizona and New Mexico’s Insulation Experts

At Banker Insulation, we have been a trusted local leader in insulation and energy conservation since 1977, offering comprehensive services to homeowners like you including:

A wide range of insulation materials for all home types
Professional installation solutions tailored to our desert climate
Home energy audits (Chandler location only)
Soundproofing solutions
Insulation removal

With eight Arizona locations and one in Albuquerque, we demonstrate a strong commitment to quality and customer satisfaction throughout the region.

Banker Insulation team members at work, unloading a truck.

Ready to boost your home’s comfort and slash your energy bills? Our team of experts is ready to help you select the best insulating materials to maximize the performance and energy efficiency of your Arizona or New Mexico home. Rest easy, we’ve got your home covered from top to bottom with quality insulation solutions to make your home more energy efficient and comfortable year-round. Contact us today to learn more about our insulation products and services and receive your free estimate.

The Importance of Home Insulation Living in the Southwest

Home insulation is one of the most effective ways to improve a house’s energy efficiency. It can help maintain…

Banker Insulation Uncovers the Benefits of Insulation

At Banker Insulation, we’ve dedicated our business to helping homeowners in the Southwest make energy improvements to their homes that reduce energy costs while making their property more efficient. Continue reading “The Importance of Home Insulation Living in the Southwest”

Where to Insulate in Your Home

From the attic to the basement or crawlspace, adequate insulation can help control temperature and save money on monthly energy bills.

The Importance of Insulating Your Home

For over 40 years, Banker Insulation has helped insulate homes throughout the Southwest. Our family-owned and -operated company is dedicated to keeping you and your family safe and comfortable. Not only can insulation help control temperature, but it can also help save money on monthly energy bills. One of the most efficient ways to save energy at home, the importance of insulation should never be overlooked. Insulation will keep your house warm in the winter and cool in the summer. Our expert team is experienced in all areas of insulation and remains up-to-date with the industry’s best home insulation materials.

A recently built two story residential home.

Home Insulation

Your home should be adequately insulated from the attic to the basement or crawl space to achieve optimal energy efficiency. The professionals at Banker Insulation are equipped with the latest tools and innovations to insulate your home correctly. Our team completes home insulation projects quickly and efficiently, ensuring the job is done right the first time. Our team delivers premier residential insulation services for homes large and small. Proper home insulation will help protect your home and your finances by maintaining the performance of your HVAC system and helping control noise transfer.

Attic Insulation

The attic is one of the first places in a home that should be insulated. Insulating and air sealing your attic helps protect your home’s living space from infiltration of unconditioned exterior air. Attic access and the area behind any walls within the attic should also be sealed and insulated. Before installing any insulation in your attic, it is vital to seal any air leaks and make any necessary repairs to the roof. When your attic is insulated correctly, you can help protect your home from heat buildup in your attic, which can negatively impact your roof’s shingles.

The Benefits of Attic Insulation

When properly installed by a professional insulation contractor, attic insulation offers a wide range of benefits. These benefits include:

Lower Energy Bills
Controlled Air Leakage
Temperature Stability
Improved Air Quality
Increased Home Value
Increased Attic Utility
Increased Pest Resistance
Water Vapor Resistance
Increased HVAC Efficiency
Enhanced Eco-Friendliness
Reduced Condensation
Reduced Noise
Prolonged Roof Life

Crawl Space Insulation

Your home’s crawl space is another critical area to insulate. Crawl space insulation will help maintain your home’s energy efficiency. Without proper insulation, cool air can easily escape through the floor, or warm air from the crawl space can infiltrate your home’s living space. How to best insulate your crawl space depends on many factors. It is crucial to hire a professional insulation company to recommend the right crawl space solution for your home.

Crawl Space Insulation Benefits

There are a wide variety of benefits to updating your crawl space insulation. When crawl space insulation is installed correctly by the professional team at Banker Insulation, these can include:

Enhanced Energy Efficiency
Improved Indoor Air Quality
Reduced Energy Costs
Regulated Interior Home Temperature
Longer Lasting HVAC Systems
Reduced Insect Infestation

Basement Insulation

Another critical place to insulate in your home is your basement. When your basement is appropriately and professionally protected, you can look forward to saving money on energy bills and enjoying this comfortable living space. Because the basement connects to other living spaces within your home, it is essential that both its ceiling and walls are insulated.

The Benefits of Basement Insulation

Basement insulation can provide you and your family with a wide range of benefits including:

Reduced Heat Loss
Moisture Intrusion Protection
Reduced Temperature Swings
Reduced Condensation
Reduced Insect Infestations

Choose Banker Insulation Today

When it comes to premier insulation installation services, choose Banker Insulation. We serve a wide range of locations throughout Arizona and New Mexico, and we would love the opportunity to serve you. Insulation offers homeowners ample benefits. Whether you have a new house, your house being remodeled, or you have an older home, we can help. As experts in the insulation industry, you can rest assured that our professionals will get the job done right the first time. You can rely on our team to install insulation in your attic, crawl space, or basement quickly and efficiently. Our team can answer any question or address any concern you might have regarding insulation. To learn more about our insulation services or to receive a free and honest estimate, contact us today

Fiberglass Insulation: Batts vs. Loose Fill

Fiberglass insulation is an excellent insulation material that is cost effective, energy efficient, and has acoustic properties. There are two types available: batts and loose fill.

Fiberglass insulation is an excellent insulation material that is cost effective, energy efficient, and has acoustic properties. According to the United States Department of Energy, it features between 40 and 60 percent recycled content, making it an environmentally sustainable product.

Additional benefits associated with fiberglass insulation include its thermal performance and moisture and fire resistance properties. Depending on the type, this insulating material either comes in specific R-Values – a measure of its resistance to heat flow – or can be blown in to meet ENERGY STAR’s recommendation.

There are two types available: batts and loose fill. Ideally, batt insulation should be professionally installed, as proper fit is crucial for benefitting from the material. Because loose fill insulation requires specialized equipment, it must be installed by an experienced, licensed insulation contractor.

Title card featuring insulation being installed in a crawl space: Quick Tips for Insulation Installation.

Select the Right Type for the Application

Batt Insulation

A defining feature of batt insulation, also available as rolls, is its versatility. They can be installed in attics, wall cavities, and floor cavities and to a depth that meets ENERGY STAR’s recommended R-values. This insulating type must fill the area where it is being installed, meaning there can be no gaps, ensuring maximum performance.

Blown-in Loose Fill

A more efficient alternative to batts and rolls is loose fill fiberglass insulation that is blown into the attic space using truck-mounted equipment. This installation technique allows the material to fill in gaps and tight areas, where installing batts would be more difficult. Loose fill materials, when professionally installed, offer the same R-values as other fiberglass insulation types.

Hire an Insulation Contractor for Correct Fit

Banker Insulation is a full service insulation contractor with 18 valley locations to help Arizonans improve their residential or commercial property’s energy efficiency.

Banker Insulation has been installing fiberglass insulation and other types of materials since 1977. Additional services include sound attenuation and energy audits. Schedule an appointment today by contacting one of our offices.

How to Ensure Wintry Warmth in Arizona and New Mexico

Here are some tips, including hiring an insulation contractor, about energy audits and insulation installation that will help keep your home warm this winter.

Updated January 2024

When winter draws near, fellow Arizona and New Mexico homeowners prepare for the colder months ahead. Even though our desert climate is renowned for its scorching summers, the winter months can still bring chilly temperatures, prompting us to seek ways to keep our abodes warm without driving up our energy bills. Fortunately, there are numerous strategies and winter energy-saving tips that can help us achieve a cozy home environment while also being mindful of energy conservation and cost efficiency.

Seal the Warmth: Tips for Improving Insulation

Two of the biggest contributors to high energy bills are inadequate or damaged insulation and air leaks. When your home’s insulation levels fall below ENERGY STAR’s recommended R-values or become damaged by pests or water, the insulation can’t adequately resist heat flow and becomes less effective. While air leaks around your windows, doors, and other areas of your home allow heated air to easily seep out and cold air to seep in.

The best way to ensure your home has the right amount of insulation in the right place is to hire an insulation contractor to assess your current insulation levels. A professional can identify areas where your insulation may be lacking, such as walls, attics, and crawl spaces, recommend necessary upgrades, and provide you with an accurate cost estimate.

As for air leaks, seal drafts with caulk and weatherstripping to reduce heat loss and cold air infiltration and consider undergoing a home energy audit. During an audit, specialized equipment is used, such as a blower door test and infrared camera, to pinpoint air leaks and provide you with a list of energy efficient home improvements.

Take the time now, before winter weather hits, to invest in insulation upgrades like fiberglass blown-in wall insulation, spray foam insulation (that insulates and air seals in one step), or extra attic insulation. And be sure to take advantage of any tax credits and rebates that may be available to you.

Mastering Winter Warmth: Strategic Heating & Thermostat Use

Energy.gov reports that the average American household’s heating system accounts for almost 30% of their total utility bill. This makes it even more important to take advantage of the variety of ways to strategically heat your Southwest home or business, utilizing both technology and applying other simple measures.

During the winter months, it’s important to set your indoor temperature to an ideal setting, preferably 68°F during the day and 65°F at night. A simple programmable thermostat will let you “set it and forget it” while a smart thermostat adjusts temperatures around your schedule, preferences, and the weather. You’re able to monitor and control your smart thermostat using your smartphone. Both thermostats are effective choices that reduce energy consumption without sacrificing comfort.

Also consider these other strategic heating measures to encourage energy conservation:

Take advantage of zone heating. Closing doors and vents in unused rooms will allow you to concentrate warmth where it’s needed most, rather than heating your entire house or building.
Reverse the direction of your ceiling fan. Doing so will draw air up, push the heated air into the corners of your room and send the warm air back down to heat up your family.
Lower the temperature of your water heater. Keep it set at no higher than 120°F to help save energy.

Let the Light In: Efficient Window Options

Windows are another potential source of heat loss during the cold winter months. Investing in energy efficient double or triple pane windows can improve insulation and reduce cold air infiltration. South-facing windows are particularly beneficial, as they allow for maximum solar heat gain during daylight hours. To further enhance insulation, you can draw thick curtains and blinds at night to trap warm air indoors, while opening them during sunny days to naturally heat your home. Taking these steps can help warm your home or business without turning the heater up and, in turn, help lower your energy consumption.

Woman sipping warm drink on a bright winter morning.

Embrace the Beauty of a Southwest Winter in a Cozy Home

When temperatures drop and the winter chill sets in, incorporating these winter energy-saving tips into your home maintenance routine will help you stay warm and cozy while also saving money and reducing your environmental footprint. With a combination of insulation upgrades, smart thermostat usage, and efficient window solutions, you can enjoy a comfortable living space throughout the winter season without breaking the bank.

For personalized advice and assistance with your commercial or home improvements geared towards energy efficiency, contact Banker Insulation today. With 18 locations across Arizona and New Mexico, our expert team is ready to provide insulation and energy solutions tailored to your specific needs so you can stay cozy, stay energy efficient, and embrace the beauty of winter in Arizona and New Mexico.

Everything You Need to Know About Cellulose Insulation

When used to insulate an attic, cellulose insulation will help regulate your home’s temperatures, thereby improving your comfort. It will also help save you money on high cooling costs in the summer and heating expenses in the winter.

According to ENERGY STAR, you can expect a ten percent savings on annual energy bills when you combine insulation installation with effective air sealing techniques, such as applying caulk and adding weather stripping materials around the windows and doors of your home. A professional energy audit is the most effective way to identify air leakage.

Professional installation is essential for reducing energy costs. An insulation contractor will ensure that all materials are installed correctly and at the proper depths to achieve ENERGY STAR’s recommended R-values. R-values refer to how well the insulating material can resist heat flow.

EVERYTHING YOU NEED TO KNOW ABOUT CELLULOSE INSULATION

What is it?

Cellulose is a paper-based insulating material. It usually contains more than 80 percent of recycled paper products, making it an excellent choice for environmentally conscious consumers. Because cellulose is a loose fill material, it can be blown-into attic spaces and densely packed in wall and floor cavities. Blown-in insulation, like cellulose, requires professional installation from an insulation company.

How will it benefit you?

Enhanced comfort
Environmentally friendly
Excellent thermal performance
It has noise reducing qualities
Inhibits the growth of mold
Minimizes insects and vermin
It is treated with fire retardants and, as such, has a Class I Fire Rating

Leading Insulation Company Since 1977

Banker Insulation is a full service insulation contractor with 18 valley locations to help Arizonans improve their residential or commercial property’s energy efficiency. Our company also has a location in New Mexico.

Fall Home Maintenance

The dog days of summer will soon be replaced by fall’s cooler weather and stunning canvas. Fall is an ideal time to check these tasks, including ensuring adequate levels of fiberglass insulation in the attic, off your home maintenance checklist.

Inspect the Roof

Inspect the roof for any storm damage, abnormal wearing, or signs of aging. Do this from the ground by using binoculars, if necessary, and walking around the house’s perimeter. You should also check in the attic for light infiltration or damp fiberglass insulation. The latter may indicate a roof leak and insulation will need to be replaced by an experienced insulation contractor.

Fall Home Maintenance

Clean the Gutters

The gutters, if your home has them, direct rainwater away from your foundation. Dead leaves, tree needles, and the flyaway Frisbee can impact water flow by causing a blockage should they build up over time. Water then can damage your roof, insulation, siding, and foundation. Scoop out the gunk and then rinse the gutters each fall and spring – more frequently if your landscape features a lot of trees.

Check for Air Leaks

According to the U.S. Department of Energy, heat gain or loss through windows accounts for between 25 and 30 percent of your heating and cooling energy use, and they are not the only thing costing you money.

Air leaks can also cause a spike in your heating and cooling costs.

Because the source of air leaks can be challenging to identify without the correct tools, consider having an energy audit done by a licensed insulation contractor. It is essential to seal air leaks and insulate to see savings.

Change Your Filters

Routinely replace the filters in your heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) unit. A good rule of thumb is to replace inexpensive filters every 30 days for maximum efficiency.

Now more than ever before, it is recommended to select high efficiency particulate air (HEPA) filters, which can go about 90 days before changing them is necessary.

A HEPA filter can effectively remove 99.97 percent of airborne particles such as dust, pet dander, and bacteria with a size of 0.3 microns. They can help improve indoor air quality and comfort. You can find replacement filters online or in stores.

Improve Fiberglass Insulation Levels

Another issue that may impact your energy efficiency is insufficient levels of fiberglass insulation. Fiberglass, whether loose fill or batts, provides good thermal performance at an attractive price point. It is also made of a significant amount of recycled content.

Uninsulated attics in valley homes should be insulated with an R-value – a measure of the material’s ability to resist heat transfers – between R30 and R60. Attics with existing insulation should meet a value between R25 to R38.

Banker Insulation is a full service insulation contractor with 18 valley locations to help Arizonans improve their residential or commercial property’s energy efficiency. Banker Insulation has been installing fiberglass insulation and other types of materials since 1977. Additional services include sound attenuation and energy audits. Schedule an appointment today by contacting one of our offices.

This blog has been updated from a 2018 post.

The Basics of Home Energy Audits

A home energy audit, when performed by an experienced insulation contractor, can help determine where your home is consuming the most energy and identify areas for improvement. It is a cost effective way to detect air leaks, inadequate insulation, and other inefficiencies that may be causing you to spend more money to heat and cool your home than is necessary. The contractor will also provide you with a prioritized list of recommended upgrades designed to improve the efficiency and comfort of your house.

How to Prepare for an Audit

The best things you can do are make a list of energy-related concerns and compile copies of your most recent electricity bills before the insulation contractor arrives. Are you signed up for paperless billing? You can download and print invoices by logging into your account. These are useful for determining your energy use each month. Ideally, you should also open your curtains or blinds and, if applicable, clear any clutter around your attic and basement doors to ensure access.

Title card featuring an infrared heat detector: The Basics of Home Energy Audits.

What to Expect During the Audit?

A contractor, approved by your residential electricity provider, will complete a thorough inspection of the interior and exterior of the home. They will also measure the depth of your insulation to determine whether you are meeting ENERGY STAR’s recommended R-values – the materials’ ability to resist heat – which differs depending on the insulated area. The auditor will conduct a series of tests using specialized equipment such as the blower door, to detect air leaks and other problems.

Most home energy audits take between two to four hours from start to finish. Once complete, the contractor will analyze their findings and provide you with a comprehensive report detailing which home improvements should receive attention first so you can reduce your energy consumption. Get started today by scheduling an appointment with Banker Insulation at (602) 273-1261.

Leading Insulation Contractor since 1977

Resources:
“Energy Saver 101 Infographic: Home Energy Audits.” The U.S. Department of Energy
“Professional Home Energy Audits.” The U.S. Department of Energy

Three Advantages of Fiberglass Insulation

Since its introduction in the late 1930s, fiberglass insulation has remained one of the most popular insulating materials, and with good reason. Pre-cut rolls or batts and blown in loose-fill are the two most frequently sold types. It can be applied to attics, walls, floor cavities, and basement rim joists.

Because a tight fit is required for optimal energy efficiency, it is essential to hire an experienced and licensed insulation contractor, such as Banker Insulation. It is also recommended that any air leaks be sealed to ensure maximum efficiency.

Fiberglass insulation is predominantly manufactured using up to 60 percent recycled container glass, according to the U.S. Department of Energy, thus freeing landfill space. The glass is woven into tight fibers that trap pockets of air to slow the transference of conditioned, whether heated or cooled, air.

Title card featuring a worker hand installing fiberglass insulation: Advantages of Fiberglass Insulation.

Ways Fiberglass Insulation Can Benefit You

Cost Effective

Fiberglass insulation is the ideal choice for budget-conscious consumers. There are plenty of options in terms of R-values and types that residential and commercial consumers can select from while remaining within budget. Another cost effective option to consider, especially if moisture is a concern, like in a basement, is to choose faced insulation. That insulation uses a vapor retardant to help prevent condensation.

Sound Dampening

Fiberglass insulation is offered in different thicknesses with different degrees of sound absorption. While noise reduction increases with depth, this insulating material will not block sound transmission. There are, however, products available with added sound attenuation. These products are ideal for several applications, including home theaters and home offices, as well as other areas where you’d like to block noise.

Thermal Resistance

The R-value for fiberglass ranges between R-8 and R-40. These values measure the thermal resistance – how well the material resists heat – with a higher number offering the best performance. Contact an insulation contractor to identify the correct R-value for your area’s climate as well as where insulation is required. Make sure the material provides optimal energy efficiency by having it professionally installed.

Schedule an Appointment with Banker Insulation

Banker Insulation is a full-service insulation and energy conservation contractor with 18 valley locations to help Arizonans improve their residential or commercial property’s energy efficiency. Banker Insulation has been offering the installation of fiberglass insulation and other types of materials, along with sound attenuation services, and energy audits since 1977. Schedule an appointment today by contacting one of our offices.

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