Keep It or Toss It: Should I Remove Outdated Attic Insulation? 

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

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

As you prep to begin putting more insulation in your attic, you may be thinking 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 damp or damaged, you can typically keep it. We suggest calling a pro who specializes in attic insulation in Saint Charles, like Golden Seal 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 maximum benefits for energy efficiency. 

If your insulation appears to be 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 contains asbestos, which can result in cancer. Don’t touch it or disturb it and contact a professional 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 gives an R-value of 38. Attic insulation R-value measures how effectively insulation can stop heat. If you have a home 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 install, its depth and how it’s added. When you work with a professional like Golden Seal Service Experts, our Experts take all the guessing out of R-values and how much insulation needs to be installed. 

What’s the Best Insulation for My Attic? 

Golden Seal Service Experts determines the ideal insulation for your attic by taking into account where you reside, your budget and how much insulation you need to install. Here are the types of attic insulation we put in. 

Batt Attic Insulation 

This kind of insulation comes in sheets trimmed to fit your attic and is constructed from fiberglass, mineral wool or cotton. Fiberglass is the most requested, as a result of its price, moisture resistance and fire resistance. Mineral wool is costlier, but provides top 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 smart material if you have lots of small spots to fill, such as around pipes, wiring or framing. While cellulose is budget-friendly and fire resistant, you’ll also have to consider that it can take in 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 fantastic for sealing cracks and other difficult-to-reach spots. It’s very tough, doesn’t flatten and gives a natural sound block. 

When you need to install additional in your attic, Golden Seal Service Experts can assist you. Our licensed and certified Experts are here to give experienced recommendations and great service that includes a 100% satisfaction guarantee.* Contact us at 630-246-2698 or use our online scheduler to book an appointment now.