From the dawn of time and as early as mankind started using mud huts or simple stone structures as dwellings, one thing was sure enough – insulation (even if there wasn’t a word for it back then) was as important as food, heat, and shelter, if one wished to survive.
From Mud and Asbestos to Tapestry and Spray Foam
Reviewing the evolution of insulation means is quite fascinating as it, quite naturally, correlates with the evolution of dwellings. In ancient times, people were already looking for such solutions. If you've ever seen Vikings, you can spot mud and straw stuffed between the wooden logs that most homes were made of during that time. Mud has a cooling effect which was used for better insulation. In ancient Egypt, mud was also used as the main construction ingredient for ancient homebuilders, who once again, sought to exploit its cooling effect.
The ancient Greeks were those who introduced Asbestos to the world and its uses for insulation (which remain relevant to date). When homes evolved into stone structures in the Middle Ages, other insulation means were required, and so tapestry was invented and put to use, covering walls and doorways and preventing heat transfer.
Insulation in the 20th century - Modern Materials and Services
The 20th century brought with it significant development in insulation methods and practices, starting with a renewed use of asbestos, moving on to fiberglass, cellulose, Polyurethane spray foam (which was developed by the military, by the way), radiant barrier, and many more.
But in order for such insulation means to work effectively, one has to hire the help of professionals to provide expert insulation installation – to make sure everything is done right in the first place in order to enjoy effective results over time. Maintenance is also critical – to take care of problems or to prevent them before they happen and removal – if the old layer ceases to be effective. These are just part of modern services of course, and you should consult with professionals in any case.
Nowadays, people might give attic insulation little thought and might take it for granted, but as history teaches us, this is one of the most important aspects of comfortable, safe and ongoing use of the place you call home.