Keep It or Throw It: Should I Take Out Outdated Attic Insulation? 

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

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

As you get ready to begin putting more insulation in your attic, you may be wondering 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 soggy or damaged, you can typically keep it. We suggest calling a pro who specializes in attic insulation in Central, like Rolf Griffin Service Experts. That way, you’ll know your attic insulation is added correctly and achieves building code standards. Proper installation also means you’ll get max benefits for energy efficiency. 

If your insulation resembles 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 pro who specializes in asbestos removal. 

How Much Attic Insulation You Should Put In 

ENERGY STAR® advises attics should have at minimum 14” of insulation, which offers an R-value of 38. Attic insulation R-value gauges how effectively insulation can stop heat. If you live in a northern climate, as much as 18” or an R-value of 49 is suggested. 

R-value is also influenced by the kind of insulation you have, its density and how it’s added. When you work with a pro like Rolf Griffin 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? 

Rolf Griffin Service Experts figures out the ideal insulation for your attic by taking into account where you live, your budget and how much insulation you need to have. Here are the types of attic insulation we put in. 

Batt Attic Insulation 

This kind of insulation is available in sheets trimmed to fit your attic and is constructed from fiberglass, mineral wool or cotton. Fiberglass is the most requested, because of its price, moisture resistance and fire resistance. Mineral wool is more expensive, but offers top protection against fire, water and sound. Usually constructed from recycled jeans, cotton insulation is a green option that provides excellent performance. 

Blown-In Attic Insulation 

A special 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 areas to fill, like around pipes, wiring or framing. While cellulose is budget-friendly and fire resistant, you’ll also have to take into account that it can hold on to moisture and decrease as the years pass. 

Spray Foam Attic Insulation 

This liquid insulation transforms to a hard foam on contact. It delivers the broadest barrier against air, vapor and water. Spray foam attic insulation is ideal for sealing cracks and other difficult-to-get at spots. It’s very tough, doesn’t flatten and offers a natural sound block. 

When you need to install additional in your attic, Rolf Griffin Service Experts can assist you. Our licensed and certified Experts are here to give knowledgeable suggestions and outstanding service that includes a 100% satisfaction guarantee.* Contact us at 260-557-1275 or use our online scheduler to book an appointment now.