No homeowner wants to pay higher heating bills than they have to, especially when the heat is cranked during the winter months.

But is adding insulation a job for a weekend DIYer or a roofing pro? Find out how this extra step can reduce heat loss through your roof and who is best qualified to perform it.

Common Problem Spots for Insulation

The heat in a house rises to escape through the ceiling, attic or roof, but it also has a way of escaping through cracks or gaps. Common areas where heat escapes include:

• Chimneys.
• Space around electrical wiring and pipes.
• Fireplaces.
• Window frames and uninsulated windows.
• Recessed lighting.
• Door frames.
• Loose or missing roof shingles.
• Electrical outlets.

The heat that keeps your family warm will always find a way to seep out. It's up to you and your roofing contractor to prevent this from happening, particularly during the long winter months.

A Choice of Insulating Materials

Attic and roof insulation materials vary, but these three main types are considered the most effective:

• Foam comes in the form of foam boards, which need to be trimmed to the necessary size, or in liquid form, which is sprayed onto the attic or loft area.
• Cellulose is produced from recycled paper, and is considered highly effective for protecting against heat loss.
• Fiberglass is often available as rolled sheets or in precisely cut square sections.

Determining which type of insulating materials is best for your needs depends on several factors, such as the size and shape of rafter spaces and the roof's age. Roofs with existing structural damage —such as mildewed decking or insect damage to rafters and trusses— will obviously need professional repair before insulation can be added.

DIY vs. Professional Contractor

In many cases, a homeowner preferring to go the DIY route can begin installing insulation in roof rafters on their own. However, the roof space has to be accessible and free from previous water damage or ongoing moisture issues. Insulating a flat roof is usually a job for a professional roofing contractor.

If you have an accessible attic on a steep slope roof and choose to insulate it yourself, safety is paramount. Keep these tips in mind:

• Protect yourself by using gloves, masks and any other protective clothing required by the insulation manufacturer's installation guide. Some insulation materials can irritate the eyes, skin and respiratory system.
• Remain sure of your footing at all times. If your attic does not have a finished floor, stand or kneel on joists, not on the ceiling, to prevent falls and structural damage.
• Be on the lookout for any birds, mice or other wildlife that may have nested in your loft or rafters. Call your local wildlife service to remove a raccoon or bat colony safely and gently if you don't think you can do it yourself.

Anything that involves more skill, knowledge or experience in terms of roof insulation should be handled by a professional roofing contractor. A trained roofer will be better prepared to tackle any complicated roof insulation situation.