Keep It or Throw It: Should I Get Rid of Aging Attic Insulation? 

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

If you suspect your home doesn’t have ample 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 Hurricane, like Teays Valley 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 commonly installed in homes built before 1990. The EPA says you should presume it has 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 offers an R-value of 38. Attic insulation R-value gauges how efficiently insulation can divert heat. If you have a home in a northern climate, as deep as 18” or an R-value of 49 is advised. 

R-value is also impacted by the kind of insulation you install, its density and how it’s added. When you work with a professional like Teays Valley Service Experts, our Experts take all the guessing out of R-values and how much insulation needs to be added. 

What’s the Best Insulation for My Attic? 

Teays Valley Service Experts figures out the best insulation for your attic by taking into account where you reside, your budget and how much insulation you need to add. Here are the types of attic insulation we put in. 

Batt Attic Insulation 

This kind of insulation is available in sheets cut 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 pricier, but offers excellent protection against fire, water and sound. Usually constructed from recycled jeans, cotton insulation is a sustainable option that provides excellent performance. 

Blown-In Attic Insulation 

A distinct 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 flatten as the years pass. 

Spray Foam Attic Insulation 

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

When you want to install additional in your attic, Teays Valley Service Experts can help. Our licensed and certified Experts are here to give knowledgeable suggestions and excellent service that includes a 100% satisfaction guarantee.* Reach us at 304-760-5088 or use our online scheduler to book an appointment now.