As an expert in the field of insulation, I highly recommend removing old attic insulation before installing new cellulose insulation. This is because old fiberglass insulation can potentially harbor mold, mildew, or rodent droppings, which can cause serious health and safety concerns.
Cellulose insulation
, on the other hand, is made from recycled newspapers and paper bags that are treated to be resistant to mold, fire, and insects. This pretreatment makes it the best alternative for attic insulation, ensuring a safe and comfortable home environment. One of the main reasons for removing old attic insulation is to ensure proper heating and cooling in your home.Over time, attic insulation can deteriorate, losing its ability to effectively regulate temperature and insulate the house. This deterioration can be caused by various factors such as displacement or depositing of insulating materials, excessive humidity, or damage from direct sunlight. Additionally, when you insulate the roof terrace, you essentially place the attic inside the envelope of the house. If you plan on adding spray foam insulation to your attic, it is crucial to remove all old insulation so that the foam has a clean surface to adhere to. Pest and animal infestations are also a common problem in attics and can cause extensive damage to existing insulation.
The old insulation acts as a sponge and absorbs any leaks or invasions from insects or rodents. To avoid these issues, it is best to invest in removing old attic insulation before installing new insulation. Whether you are concerned about high utility bills, strange smells, or your long-term health and safety, modern insulation can greatly improve your home's comfort and energy efficiency. The process of removing old attic insulation typically takes around eight to ten hours, depending on the size of the attic and if there are multiple attics in the home. In some cases, laminated insulators or fiberglass and cellulose insulators with loose, blown filler can be installed on top of old insulation.
However, if the old insulation is damp, moldy, or infested with pests, it is necessary to remove it before installing new insulation. This can be done using a bucket vacuum or workshop vacuum with a minimum of 1500 hp. The old insulation can then be emptied into large garbage bags using the vacuum. It is important to note that the process of removing old attic insulation should always be done by professionals. This is to ensure proper removal of any hazardous materials and to guarantee that the new insulation is installed correctly.
Attic insulation plays a crucial role in maintaining a comfortable and energy-efficient home. If you choose to spray new foam on the roof terrace but leave old insulation on the attic floor, you are not improving your home's comfort level; instead, you are creating a breeding ground for potential problems.
