Keep It or Toss It: Should I Remove Outdated Attic Insulation?
Having the proper insulation depth in your attic doesn’t merely keep your residence comfy. It can help you save a lot of money on your energy expenses.
If you suspect your residence is among the 90% in the United States that doesn’t have enough attic insulation, now is a good time to add more. Having ample insulation helps regulate your house’s comfort and stop wintertime problems like ice dams, according to the Insulation Institute.
As you prep to begin installing more installation in your attic, you may be wondering 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 damp or damaged, you can typically keep it. We suggest hiring a specialist who specializes in attic insulation in San Antonio, like Aramendia Plumbing, Heating and Air. That way, you’ll know your attic insulation is added accurately and achieves building code standards. Proper installation also means you’ll reap top benefits for energy efficiency.
If your insulation appears to be shiny pebbles or chips, stop in advance of adding more insulation. Vermiculite insulation was commonly installed in homes built before 1990. The EPA says you should presume it includes asbestos, which can lead to cancer. Don’t touch it or disturb it and get in touch with a company who specializes in asbestos removal.
How Much Attic Insulation You Should Add
ENERGY STAR® recommends attics should have at the very least 14” of insulation, which provides an R-value of 38. Attic insulation R-value measures how effectively insulation can divert heat. If you reside in a northern climate, as deep as 18” or an R-value of 49 is recommended.
R-value is also impacted by the style of insulation you install, its depth and how it’s installed. When you work with a professional like Aramendia Plumbing, Heating and Air, we’ll take all the speculation out of R-values and how much insulation needs to be added.
What’s the Best Insulation for My Attic?
Aramendia Plumbing, Heating and Air determines the best 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 available in sheets cut to fit your attic and is constructed from fiberglass, mineral wool or cotton. Fiberglass is the most popular, because of its price, moisture resistance and fire resistance. Mineral wool is costlier, but delivers top protection against fire, water and sound. Typically made from recycled jeans, cotton insulation is a sustainable choice that gives superb performance.
Blown-In Attic Insulation
A special machine is used to install blown-in attic insulation, which may be made from fiberglass, cellulose, mineral wool or cotton. Cellulose is a smart material if you have a lot of tight areas to fill, like around pipes, wiring or framing. While cellulose is economical and fire resistant, you’ll also have to consider that it can take in moisture and decrease as time passes.
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 fantastic for sealing cracks and other difficult-to-get at spots. It’s highly tough, doesn’t go down and offers a natural sound barrier.
When you are looking to to install extra in your attic, Aramendia Plumbing, Heating and Air can help. Our licensed and certified Experts are here to offer knowledgeable suggestions and excellent service that includes a 100% satisfaction guarantee.* Contact us at 210-404-4233 or use our online scheduler to get an appointment today.
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