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Essential Guide to Quick Insulation Tips in Arizona & New Mexico

Boost comfort and cut costs! Quality insulation reduces energy bills and HVAC strain, adding value to homes in Arizona and New Mexico.

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.

Fiberglass Insulation: Batts vs. Loose Fill

Fiberglass insulation from Banker Insulation offers energy efficiency, soundproofing, and eco-friendliness, with 40-60% recycled content. Professional installation ensures optimal fit and R-values.

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

Stay warm and save this winter! Discover expert tips on energy audits, insulation, and choosing the right contractor for a cozy, efficient home.

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

Enhance comfort and save energy with cellulose insulation. Banker Insulation provides expert installation for year-round efficiency and savings.

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

Get ready for fall by tackling essential home tasks: inspect the roof for leaks, clear the gutters, seal air leaks, replace HVAC filters, and check attic insulation levels. Banker Insulation can help boost your home’s energy efficiency.

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 from Banker Insulation detects inefficiencies, saving you on energy costs. Prepare by gathering recent bills and clearing access areas for a thorough check.

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

Fiberglass insulation is eco-friendly, cost-effective, and sound-dampening. Banker Insulation provides optimal efficiency with expert installation.

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.

Four Tips to Slash Your Summer Cooling Costs in Arizona & New Mexico

Beat the summer heat! Arizona and New Mexico residents can cut energy costs with Banker Insulation’s expert solutions for cooler homes.

Updated May 2024

As the scorching summer months approach, residents of Arizona and New Mexico brace themselves for the inevitable spike in energy costs. However, there’s good news–with practical strategies, you can keep cool without breaking the bank. In this guide, we’ll explore four actionable tips to help you stay comfortable and save money on your electricity bills.

Why Insulation Is Key to Cooling in the Southwest

In the blistering heat of an Arizona summer, keeping cool can feel like an uphill battle. Understanding heat transfer is crucial; heat naturally flows from warmer to cooler areas. This is where insulation becomes your best ally. By acting as a thermal barrier, insulation slows down heat transfer, reducing the workload on your air conditioning system and ultimately slashing your cooling costs. When combined with air sealing, you can maximize your home’s energy efficiency to save even more. In fact, with insulation and air sealing you can save an average of 15% or more on your annual heating and cooling costs! That’s a cool investment for your Southwest home.

Four Tips to Beat the Heat & Lower Your Bills in Arizona & New Mexico

Tip 1: Prioritize Insulation

Worker's hand installing blown-in insulation in an attic. Start by addressing your attic and walls. Proper attic insulation and air sealing are especially crucial as hot air rises and escapes through your roof, making your attic one of the most energy inefficient rooms of your home. Another important area to insulate is inside your exterior walls, especially if you reside in an older home. Older Arizona homes were often built with little to no insulation inside their walls. Adding wall insulation will protect your home from the outside elements by preventing cold drafts and heat loss and creating a cozier living environment and a more energy efficient dwelling.

Consider different insulation options such as spray foam, cellulose, or fiberglass for your project, each with their own unique benefits. Spray foam combines insulation and air sealing in one easy step, while cellulose is a great blown-in option, and fiberglass is the most budget friendly choice.

Before starting any insulating project, don’t hesitate to seek a professional assessment in the form of a home energy audit to identify your specific energy needs. Conducted by a professional, like Banker Insulation, these inspections provide a clear picture of your home’s energy consumption and will identify air leaks, inefficient appliances/equipment, and additional sources of energy loss. With this detailed report in hand, you’ll be able to make the most educated decisions regarding maximizing your home’s energy efficiency.

Tip 2: Optimize A/C Usage

Regular maintenance is key to ensuring your air conditioner runs efficiently. Installing a smart thermostat can further enhance energy efficiency by learning your schedule and adjusting cooling accordingly. Additionally, utilizing ceiling fans can help circulate cool air, allowing you to dial back your A/C usage during the hot summer months without sacrificing comfort.

Tip 3: Maximize Shade

Strategic landscaping with shade trees will reduce the amount of heat entering your home. Utilizing window treatments like awnings, exterior shades, or solar screens are ideal ways to block sunlight from east- or west-facing windows. Opting for light-colored roofing materials also helps reflect heat away from your property.

Tip 4: Mindful Energy Consumption

Upgrade to energy-efficient appliances and LED lighting, and embrace cooking methods that generate less heat, such as outdoor grilling, microwaves, or slow cookers. Consider running major appliances during off-peak hours to take advantage of lower electricity rates.

Tailoring Tips for Arizona

Large Arizona house highlighted by the setting sun.

Arizona is known for its extreme heat and dry climate, yet is located in four different climate zones, ranging from hot dry to cold dry. This means that not only are insulation and shade critical, but that different parts of the state have different insulation needs. The insulation needs of Tucson or Phoenix may differ from those of Flagstaff or Snowflake. It’s important to consult with an insulation professional for insulation solutions tailored to your climate zone.

Plus, don’t forget to explore specific energy-saving programs specific to Arizona residents to maximize your savings when making home efficiency upgrades. Check out these resources for more information:

Tailoring Tips for New Mexico

Adobe-type home in New Mexico. In New Mexico, where altitude and temperature swings pose unique challenges, adjusting insulation strategies is essential. New Mexico is home to three different climate zones (with Albuquerque falling in the “mixed dry” zone 4) and just like in Arizona, each climate zone has different insulating needs. For those building with adobe or living in adobe homes, extra work may be needed to meet required insulation values and local energy codes.

Also, be sure to take advantage of regional energy-saving programs just for New Mexico residents to stay ahead of rising utility bills and earn money back for energy upgrades. Check out these resources for more information:

Save on Summer Energy Costs with Banker Insulation

Staying cool while saving money on your energy bills is entirely achievable with the right approach. By prioritizing insulation, optimizing your cooling systems, maximizing shade, and practicing mindful energy consumption, you can beat the heat and enjoy long-term comfort without breaking the bank. Remember, investing in energy efficiency is an investment in your future comfort and financial well-being. So don’t wait–start saving on your summer energy costs today!

Who can you count on for expert service and tailored insulating solutions for your Arizona or New Mexico home or building? Banker Insulation of course! We have been the Southwest’s go-to insulation company since 1977 and we are here to meet your insulating needs. Contact us today to learn more about our customized insulation options and receive your free estimate.

Home Maintenance Tips for Spring

As spring arrives in the Southwest, it’s a great time as homeowners in the desert regions of Arizona and New Mexico to gear and to tackle the unique challenges posed by our region’s climate.

Updated March 2024

As spring arrives in the Southwest, it’s a good time as homeowners in the desert of Arizona and New Mexico to gear up to tackle the unique challenges posed by our region’s climate. Our sunny, arid landscapes bring with them a set of maintenance tasks essential for ensuring comfort, efficiency, and protection against the intense summer heat. Let’s explore some crucial spring home maintenance tips tailored to the specific needs of our homes in these states. These suggestions will help you minimize your energy costs and maximize your springtime fun.

Arizona Spring Maintenance Tips

Scorpion and Snake Prevention

With the rising temperatures, scorpions and snakes seek refuge in cooler indoor spaces. Conduct a thorough inspection and take necessary measures to deter these unwelcome guests.

Evaporative Cooler Maintenance

Clean out sediment buildup from evaporative coolers due to low humidity, ensuring optimal performance during the hot months.

Window Seals and Caulking

Inspect window caulking and seals around doors and windows to prevent dust accumulation, air leaks, and maintain energy efficiency. Undergoing a professional energy audit can pinpoint additional sources of air loss and provide recommendations for improvement as well.

A/C Servicing

Service air conditioning systems, replace HVAC filters, and check ducts for leaks to prevent the loss of cold air. Completing these tasks improves energy efficiency and prolongs the life of your A/C system.

Landscaping Updates

Update landscaping with lower-water adaptive plants to conserve water and create a more sustainable outdoor environment.

New Mexico Spring Maintenance Tips

Flat Roof Inspection

Check for pooling water damage on flat roofs, which are typical of adobe style homes, addressing any issues promptly to prevent further damage.

Stucco Wall Repair

Repair exterior cracks in stucco walls caused by freeze/thaw shifts during winter weather, ensuring structural integrity and preventing moisture intrusion.

Gutter Cleaning

Clean gutters clogged by cottonwood tree debris to prevent water damage and maintain proper drainage around the home.

Vibrant landscaping in front of multiple two-story homes in the southwest.

Rainwater Catchment Systems

Install rainwater catchment systems to offset monsoon flooding, providing a sustainable water source for landscaping and outdoor use.

Xeriscaping

It’s a good time to embrace xeriscaping principles and create a more drought resistant yard with barked beds and native plants instead of a traditional lawn. This is a great way to conserve water and reduce maintenance requirements.

Additional Tips for Every Homeowner

In addition to these regional home maintenance tips, it’s essential to consider general spring home maintenance tasks too, especially properly insulating your home with new or upgraded insulation. Proper insulation and air sealing will keep your home comfortable throughout every season of the year and help you save on your energy bills. Spring is the best time to inspect your attic insulation (and other insulated parts of your home) to ensure your insulation is ready for the warm air of summer. If your insulation is old or damaged, take the time to choose and replace the insulation that’s best for your home, from loose fill cellulose to spray foam to fiberglass.

Banker Insulation is Here to Help You

Preparing your Arizona or New Mexico home for the summer season may seem overwhelming, especially with the challenges our desert climate brings. But by following a comprehensive spring home maintenance checklist and incorporating region-specific upgrades, you can maximize your home’s comfort, efficiency, and protection against seasonal threats, while possibly lowering your energy bills. From controlling intense heat and pests to conserving water and energy, proactive maintenance ensures a comfortable and sustainable living space for you and your family year-round. And spring is a good time to invest in the longevity and performance of your home.

At Banker Insulation, we’re here to help you prepare for spring and summer weather. We want you to spend more time cheering on your favorite baseball team during Cactus League Spring Training than worrying about your home. That’s why we offer a wide variety of products and services to help keep your home in tip-top shape and energy efficient year-round. Take advantage of any or all our services, including insulation removal and installation, rain gutter installation, and home energy audits available from many of our 18 locations throughout Arizona and New Mexico. Contact us today to get your spring off to a good start.

Spray Foam vs. Fiberglass: Choosing the Right Insulation for Your Arizona or New Mexico Home

You’ve conquered the busiest season of the year, and now it’s time to tackle that insulation problem—so, spray foam insulation or fiberglass insulation?

Living in Arizona and New Mexico present unique climate challenges for homeowners. From our extreme summer heat and intense sun to occasional cold snaps, properly insulating your home is crucial for year-round comfort and energy efficiency.

But many local homeowners are unsure which insulation is the right one for them: spray foam or fiberglass. In this blog post, we’ll provide a clear comparison to help you choose the right type of insulation for your Arizona or New Mexico home.

Understanding Insulation Basics

The concept of R-value is key when selecting insulation. R-value measures an insulation material’s resistance to heat flow – the higher the R-value, the greater the insulating power. In hot climates like here in Arizona and New Mexico, high R-values and effective air sealing are critical to prevent heat from entering your home through conduction, convection, and radiation.

Spray Foam Insulation

There are two main types of spray foam insulation – open cell and closed cell spray foam. While both types air seal and insulate in one step, open-cell spray foam provides an effective air barrier, has a lower density and R-value per inch (R-3.8) but is more affordable than closed-cell. Closed-cell spray foam is denser, has a higher R-value (up to R-7 per inch), and offers superior air sealing and moisture resistance as a vapor barrier.

Spray foam offers many benefits, including high R-value for excellent insulating performance, impressive air sealing, and sound dampening. However, the cost to install spray foam insulation is more expensive than fiberglass and requires professional installation for safety and effectiveness. Some curing time is also needed during and after the installation process, which can be mitigated by choosing low-VOC (volatile organic compounds) spray foam options and ensuring proper ventilation and installation.

Spray foam insulation excels in attics, crawl spaces, cathedral ceilings, and wall cavities with limited space. Closed-cell spray foam insulation is especially ideal for areas prone to moisture.

Fiberglass Insulation

When we think of insulation, many of us picture fiberglass insulation. The most widely used type of insulation, fiberglass comes in batts, rolls, and a loose fill type that’s blown in. Fiberglass insulation works by trapping air in glass fibers that slows the transfer of heat. It’s highly effective in walls, floors, attics (combined with proper air sealing), and less humid areas. Installing fiberglass insulation is a low-cost insulation option that is readily available.

While fiberglass batts can be installed without professional assistance, it’s highly recommended to have professional insulation contractors handle the installation for maximum results and safety.

Fiberglass also tends to make less of a mess than spray foam insulation and is a great fire retardant. However, fiberglass insulation has a lower R-value per inch, can settle over time, is less effective at air sealing, and is susceptible to moisture damage.

Common Questions Answered

“Is spray foam safe?”

When correctly installed by professionals, spray foam insulation is safe for use. Proper ventilation and choosing low-VOC spray foam options can address any off-gassing concerns.

“Which is better for soundproofing?”

Both spray foam and fiberglass offer quality sound dampening, but dense-pack fiberglass generally performs better at dampening sound transmission compared to spray foam insulation.

Choosing the Right Insulation for Your Climate

For homeowners residing in Arizona’s extreme heat, air sealing and high R-values are crucial. Closed-cell spray foam is recommended for your roofs and attics.

In New Mexico’s variable climate, homeowners need insulation that performs well in both hot and cold conditions. A combination of spray foam and fiberglass insulation can provide effective results.

Both Arizona and New Mexico have different R-value recommendations for home insulation based on the climate zones of each state. Visit Energy Star to see the recommended R-values for your area.

Your Partner in Insulation Solutions

Remember, both open-cell and closed-cell spray foam insulation, as well as fiberglass insulation, have their own unique advantages and disadvantages. Whether you choose the air sealing and insulating combo of spray foam or the more cost friendly fiberglass, the best type of insulation for your Arizona or New Mexico home will depend on your budget, the specific area(s) being insulated, and your home’s unique needs.

At Banker Insulation, our expert insulation team is here to answer all your insulation questions. We take pride in our work and our expertise in meeting your insulation needs. Contact us today to learn more about our insulation services and products for local residential and commercial buildings and receive your free estimate.

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