Keep It or Pitch It: Should I Take Out Old Attic Insulation? 

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

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

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

In Most Homes, You Can Keep Old Attic Insulation 

Unless your current insulation is wet or damaged, you can usually keep it. We advise calling a pro who specializes in attic insulation in East Syracuse, like Falso Service Experts. That way, you’ll know your attic insulation is added correctly and achieves building code standards. Accurate installation also means you’ll get top benefits for energy efficiency. 

If your insulation appears to be shiny pebbles or chips, stop prior to adding more insulation. Vermiculite insulation was frequently installed in homes built prior to 1990. The EPA says you should presume it contains asbestos, which can result in cancer. Don’t touch it or disturb it and call a pro who specializes in asbestos removal. 

How Much Attic Insulation You Should Put In 

ENERGY STAR® suggests attics should have at minimum 14” of insulation, which offers an R-value of 38. Attic insulation R-value determines how effectively insulation can divert heat. If you live in a northern climate, as much as 18” or an R-value of 49 is recommended. 

R-value is also influenced by the kind of insulation you use, its thickness and how it’s added. When you work with a pro like Falso Service Experts, we’ll take all the guessing out of R-values and how much insulation needs to be installed. 

What’s the Best Insulation for My Attic? 

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

Batt Attic Insulation 

This kind of insulation is installed in sheets sized to fit your attic and is constructed from fiberglass, mineral wool or cotton. Fiberglass is the most requested, due to its price, moisture resistance and fire resistance. Mineral wool is pricier, but provides top protection against fire, water and sound. Usually constructed from recycled jeans, cotton insulation is a sustainable choice that provides excellent performance. 

Blown-In Attic Insulation 

A distinct machine is used to install blown-in attic insulation, which may contain fiberglass, cellulose, mineral wool or cotton. Cellulose is a wise material if you have many small areas to fill, such as around pipes, wiring or framing. While cellulose is budget-friendly and fire resistant, you’ll also have to realize that it can hold on to moisture and decrease as the years pass. 

Spray Foam Attic Insulation 

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

When you want to install additional in your attic, Falso Service Experts can help. Our licensed and certified Experts are here to give skilled advice and outstanding service that includes a 100% satisfaction guarantee.* Contact us at 315-313-6531 or use our online scheduler to book an appointment now.