Keep It or Toss It: Should I Remove Aging Attic Insulation?
Having the correct amount of insulation in your attic doesn’t merely keep your house comfy. It can help you save a lot of money on your heating and cooling expenses.
If you suspect your home is among the 90% in the United States that doesn’t have adequate attic insulation, now is a fantastic time to add more. Having adequate insulation helps even out your residence’s comfort and halt wintertime issues including ice dams, according to the Insulation Institute.
As you prepare 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 Homes, You Can Keep Old Attic Insulation
Unless your present insulation is soggy or damaged, you can usually keep it. We advise partnering with a pro who specializes in attic insulation in Nashville, like Donelson Air Service Experts. That way, you’ll know your attic insulation is installed accurately and achieves building code standards. Correct installation also means you’ll enjoy top 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 assume it contains asbestos, which can result in cancer. Don’t touch it or disturb it and contact a pro who specializes in asbestos removal.
How Much Attic Insulation You Should Put In
ENERGY STAR® recommends attics should have at least 14” of insulation, which gives an R-value of 38. Attic insulation R-value determines 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 recommended.
R-value is also affected by the kind of insulation you use, its depth and how it’s put in. When you work with a company like Donelson Air 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?
Donelson Air Service Experts determines the best insulation for your attic by including where you live, your budget and how much insulation you need to install. Here are the types of attic insulation we install.
Batt Attic Insulation
This kind of insulation is installed in sheets cut 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 costlier, but offers excellent protection against fire, water and sound. Often built from recycled jeans, cotton insulation is an earth-friendly choice that delivers superb performance.
Blown-In Attic Insulation
A specialized machine is used to install blown-in attic insulation, which can contain fiberglass, cellulose, mineral wool or cotton. Cellulose is a smart choice if you have lots of little areas to fill, such as around pipes, wiring or framing. While cellulose is economical and fire resistant, you’ll also have to take into account that it can take in moisture and settle as time passes.
Spray Foam Attic Insulation
This liquid insulation converts to a hard foam on contact. It offers the strongest barrier against air, vapor and water. Spray foam attic insulation is ideal for plugging cracks and other tricky-to-reach locations. It’s extremely durable, doesn’t flatten and gives a natural sound barrier.
When you are looking to to install additional in your attic, Donelson Air Service Experts can assist you. Our licensed and certified Experts are here to give skilled recommendations and great service that includes a 100% satisfaction guarantee.* Call us at 615-953-9885 or use our online scheduler to get an appointment today.
*Not applicable to the Advantage Program. See your signed Advantage Program agreement for full details and exclusions. 100% Satisfaction Guarantee is subject to certain restrictions and limitations as set forth in the applicable Terms and Conditions.
