Insulation is a vital factor in maintaining the comfort of your home. To that end, proper insulation ensures it performs as expected. And since the insulation removal and installation process can be daunting for most people, it’s best left to a professional.
What should you do with your old insulation if you’re planning to install new insulating material? Is chucking it okay, or would a fresh install over the old material be ideal? Well, it depends.
In some cases, you don’t have to remove your pre-existing insulation. There are times, however, when a contractor needs to remove old material before installing new insulation. Let’s explore when either option may be necessary. That way, your next renovation project can go as planned.
When to Keep Your Old Insulation
Sometimes, leaving your old installation in place and adding new materials is preferable. If your insulation offers the intended results, keeping what you have might make more sense. This is often the case with fiberglass or cellulose insulation, which can last for decades when installed correctly.
For example, if you’re planning a home addition or expansion, it may not be necessary to remove insulation already in place. The same goes for insulation in ceilings, crawl spaces, and other difficult-to-reach areas. In short, insulation removal isn’t necessary when you’re happy with the results you’re currently getting.
The type of insulation material also factors into the equation. For instance, loose-fill insulation, such as fiberglass and cellulose can settle over time. This often happens in attics, where insulation is subject to the effects of gravity.
In these cases, adding more insulation may be necessary to achieve the desired thermal resistance level. In other words, you can top off your insulation without starting from scratch. Thus, your family can enjoy the benefits of increased insulation without the hassle and expense of complete removal.
Talk to a qualified pro about the insulation in your home to determine if adding more insulation is the best option. They can also advise you on the type of insulation that would be most effective given your climate and budget.
When to Remove Old Insulation
In some situations, removal may be necessary before new insulation can be installed. If your insulation is damaged, for example, it might not be providing the level of thermal resistance you need. Thus, removal could prevent further damage to your home. Here are possible scenarios that may necessitate the removal of your existing insulation.
Water Damage
Insulation that has been contaminated by water or mold needs replacement. Simply adding material won’t cut it. Besides, mildew growth could have potential health implications- think of allergies or respiratory problems.
If you have insulation damaged by a natural disaster like a flood, it’s also practical to replace it. The same goes for insulation exposed to leaks from plumbing or the roof.
Dealing with Pests
Pests can cause extensive damage to insulation, mainly if they’ve set up shop in your walls or attic. Mice, rats, and squirrels are known to nibble on insulation, which can significantly reduce its R-value. These critters can also introduce diseases that might affect you and your family.
If you think pests have infiltrated your insulation, it’s best to have the material removed and replaced with fresh insulation. And while at it, tackle the pest problem to prevent a repeat infestation.
Upgrading
You may also need insulation removal if you’re planning to upgrade your home’s insulation. For example, you might want to replace fiberglass insulation with spray foam insulation. Or, you may consider adding insulation to an area that’s currently poorly uninsulated.
In either case, removal of the old insulation is necessary before a fresh installation. This holds true even if the old insulation is in good condition- provided an upgrade is on the cards, the old material has to go.
Case in point, let’s suppose you intend to install faced insulation- this type sports a vapor retarder that guards against moisture damage. Removing the existing insulation and replacing it with faced insulation is advisable. Otherwise, you could create the ultimate breeding ground for mildew, as the moisture retarder traps moisture.
Misaligned Insulation
Another insulation removal scenario has to do with insulation that’s out of place. If insulation is installed incorrectly, it can result in gaps and voids that reduce its effectiveness. What’s more, insulation that isn’t properly aligned can cause damage to your home, particularly if it rubs against wiring. Thus, a fresh install would be the best option on the table.
While some situations call for removal or old installation, it’s not always necessary. Involve a local and experienced contractor to ensure you’re making the best choice. That could mean removal, replacement, upgrade, or repair. Whichever option you settle on, your contractor can ensure the insulation works as it should.