Keep It or Throw It: Should I Remove Outdated Attic Insulation? 

Having the correct insulation depth in your attic doesn’t only keep your home cozy. It can help you save a lot of money on your utility costs. 

If you suspect your home doesn’t have enough attic insulation, now is a good time to install more. Having enough insulation helps regulate your house’s temps and stop wintertime problems such as ice dams, according to the Insulation Institute. 

As you prepare to begin putting more insulation in your attic, you may be wondering if you need to do attic insulation removal. Not necessarily, and here’s why. 

In Most Cases, You Can Keep Old Attic Insulation 

Unless your current insulation is soggy or damaged, you can typically keep it. We suggest calling a pro who specializes in attic insulation in Mobile, like Climate Control Service Experts. That way, you’ll know your attic insulation is added correctly and matches building code standards. Proper installation also means you’ll get max benefits for energy efficiency. 

If your insulation resembles shiny pebbles or chips, stop before adding extra insulation. Vermiculite insulation was often installed in homes built prior to 1990. The EPA says you should presume it includes asbestos, which can result in cancer. Don’t touch it or disturb it and get in touch with a company who specializes in asbestos removal. 

How Much Attic Insulation You Should Put In 

ENERGY STAR® advises attics should have at minimum 14” of insulation, which offers an R-value of 38. Attic insulation R-value gauges how effectively insulation can stop heat. If you have a home in a northern climate, up to 18” or an R-value of 49 is suggested. 

R-value is also impacted by the kind of insulation you install, its thickness and how it’s added. When you work with a company like Climate Control Service Experts, our Experts take all the guessing out of R-values and how much insulation needs to be added. 

What’s the Best Insulation for My Attic? 

Climate Control Service Experts figures out the ideal insulation for your attic by taking into account where you reside, your budget and how much insulation you need to add. Here are the types of attic insulation we put in. 

Batt Attic Insulation 

This kind of insulation is available in sheets cut to fit your attic and is constructed from fiberglass, mineral wool or cotton. Fiberglass is the most requested, because of its price, moisture resistance and fire resistance. Mineral wool is more expensive, but offers excellent protection against fire, water and sound. Usually constructed from recycled jeans, cotton insulation is a sustainable option that delivers excellent performance. 

Blown-In Attic Insulation 

A specialized machine is used to install blown-in attic insulation, which may contain fiberglass, cellulose, mineral wool or cotton. Cellulose is a good material if you have many small spaces to fill, like around pipes, wiring or framing. While cellulose is budget-friendly and fire resistant, you’ll also have to take into account that it can take in moisture and flatten as the years pass. 

Spray Foam Attic Insulation 

This liquid insulation transforms to a hard foam on contact. It delivers the broadest barrier against air, vapor and water. Spray foam attic insulation is fantastic for sealing cracks and other difficult-to-reach spots. It’s very strong, doesn’t flatten and offers a natural sound block. 

When you want to install additional in your attic, Climate Control Service Experts can assist you. Our licensed and certified Experts are here to offer skilled suggestions and great service that includes a 100% satisfaction guarantee.* Contact us at 251-202-7503 or use our online scheduler to book an appointment now.