Keep It or Toss It: Should I Remove Outdated Attic Insulation?
Having the right insulation thickness in your attic doesn’t only keep your house comfortable. It can help you save major money on your heating and cooling bills.
If you are concerned your home is among the 90% in the United States that doesn’t have adequate attic insulation, now is a good time to add more. Having ample insulation helps regulate your home’s comfort and prevent wintertime troubles such as ice dams, according to the Insulation Institute.
As you prep to begin installing more installation in your attic, you could 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 present insulation is soggy or damaged, you can often keep it. We advise calling a professional who specializes in attic insulation in Louisville, like Becht/Givens Service Experts. That way, you’ll know your attic insulation is installed like it should be and meets building code standards. Accurate installation also means you’ll enjoy maximum benefits for energy efficiency.
If your insulation looks like shiny pebbles or chips, stop prior to adding additional insulation. Vermiculite insulation was often installed in homes built prior to 1990. The EPA says you should assume it has 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 Have
ENERGY STAR® recommends attics should have at least 14” of insulation, which provides an R-value of 38. Attic insulation R-value measures how efficiently insulation can divert heat. If you reside in a northern climate, as much as 18” or an R-value of 49 is advised.
R-value is also impacted by the kind of insulation you use, its depth and how it’s put in. When you work with a professional like Becht/Givens Service Experts, our specialists take all the guessing out of R-values and how much insulation needs to be put in.
What’s the Best Insulation for My Attic?
Becht/Givens Service Experts determines the right insulation for your attic by considering where you reside, your budget and how much insulation you need to install. Here are the types of attic insulation we use.
Batt Attic Insulation
This type 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 greater protection against fire, water and sound. Typically made from recycled jeans, cotton insulation is an earth-friendly choice that provides superb performance.
Blown-In Attic Insulation
A distinct machine is used to install blown-in attic insulation, which may include fiberglass, cellulose, mineral wool or cotton. Cellulose is a wise material if you have many little spots to fill, including around pipes, wiring or framing. While cellulose is economical and fire resistant, you’ll also have to take into account that it can retain moisture and settle as the years pass.
Spray Foam Attic Insulation
This liquid insulation transforms to a hard foam on contact. It provides the broadest barrier against air, vapor and water. Spray foam attic insulation is great for plugging cracks and other difficult-to-reach spots. It’s very heavy duty, doesn’t settle and provides a natural sound block.
When you want to install additional in your attic, Becht/Givens Service Experts can help. Our licensed and certified Experts are here to provide knowledgeable suggestions and great service backed by a 100% satisfaction guarantee.* Call us at 502-785-8230 or use our online scheduler to get an appointment now.
*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.
