One of the best services you can offer your customers is an attic cap or attic restoration featuring EPA-registered TAP® Pest Control Insulation. Not only does it add a permanent layer of pest protection, but it can also save your customer up to 30% on their annual heating and cooling bills. TAP® is one of the only products that truly pays for itself over time and is backed by a transferrable, lifetime warranty.
To get the most out of your proposal, here are some tips for quoting a TAP job:
Measuring
Although some real estate websites can be helpful in obtaining the square footage of a home, it is wise not to rely on them for accurate information. It is always best to measure the attic onsite. Laser measuring tools make it very easy to stand in one spot and calculate the attic’s dimensions and don’t cost very much. Some laser measuring tools even calculate the square footage for you. Using measuring wheels to walk the perimeter of the house is also good for a conservative measurement.
Professional Graph
One of the best ways to make sure you have detailed information about the home’s attic is to create a professional graph detailing the attic. A graph helps assure that you have every measurement needed to quote the TAP® attic service. It also labels the location of items such as the HVAC unit, recessed lights, chimneys, vent pipes, and other items that may need addressing prior to insulating.
Ventilation
It’s important to pay attention to the type of ventilation present. Many homes have soffit vents but may not have the baffles in place needed when adding more insulation to the attic. Insulation levels of R-19 or less may not have needed baffles, but when installing to the U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) recommended levels, baffles (or air chutes) will need to be added to extend the attic’s ventilation. Remember, all attics need to be vented properly to avoid moisture build-up which can cause future mold or mildew issues.
Safety & Personal Protective Equipment (PPE)
Working in an attic means working in a confined space. Be sure you protect yourself by wearing the proper PPE. Dust masks, gloves, long sleeves/pants (or coveralls) are the bare minimum that you should be wearing. Bump hats are a good idea since there are many things in the attic that a head can run into including rafters and nails from shingles along the roof. It’s also a good idea to have an LED headlamp and walking safety boards like the TAP® Joistmate.
Heat Producing Appliances in the Attic
Pay close attention to any appliances in the attic. Devices like HVAC units, recessed lights, and bathroom fans should all be properly prepared prior to installation. Proper preparation involves building a three-inch barrier around the device and is actually a regulation.
When quoting account for the number of recessed light covers and any damming materials such as blue board, tape, nails, etc. that may need to be complete a barrier around HVAC units. In addition, every job should include a Hatchmaster attic entrance cover to protect the attic access and further insulate the home.
Quote Options
It’s always best to provide the customer with a good, better, best proposal so they have options. Whether you are recommending an attic cap or a partial/whole attic restoration, it works well to offer different levels at a range of pricing. For example, if the attic is insulated at an R-19, and there are no signs of insects, you would want to bring the level up to the DOE minimum R-38. You can offer the additional R-19 (combined R-38) and perhaps a lower value of R-15 (combined R-34) and a higher value of R-30 (combined R-49).
To discuss these or learn additional tips for quoting a TAP job, contact us.
Additional Reading Resources
The Building Envelope of the Home
The Three Inch Rule and Why It Matters
Choosing an Insulation with a Higher R-Value Can Save You Money
TAP Bag Calculator