You should hire a contractor if:

• Your home currently has little or no insulation, especially in the attic. Starting from scratch is a big job.

• Any structural changes are involved.

• The area is difficult to reach and move around in.

• Your Florida home is older (pre-1930) with original wiring. Some older homes still have now-obsolete "knob and tube" wiring that can be dangerous if handled improperly.

• Existing insulation is wet or improperly installed.

• Your attic has no ventilation.

• You have respiratory problems or are claustrophobic.

• You're a home-improvement novice.

Finding an qualified contractor

The best way to find a qualified insulation professional is to ask family, friends and neighbors who have recently hired contractors. You can also call local homebuilders to ask which insulation companies they prefer to work with.

If you live in the Orlando insulation replacement service territory, you can use our contractors to find certified insulation experts in your area.

As with any other Orlando insulation contractor, ask for estimates from several companies, and get a firm bid before signing a contract. Each company might suggest a different type of insulation, but the recommendations for R-value should be consistent.

Some good questions to ask:

• What type of insulation do you recommend for my home?

• What R-value should we try to achieve?

• What type of vapor barriers will be used?

• What kind of ventilation do you recommend?

• How long will the job take?

• Are you insured against accidents and property damage?

• Are you completely familiar with local building codes?

• What kind of guarantee can you offer?