Keep It or Toss It: Should I Remove Outdated Attic Insulation? 

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

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

As you prepare to begin putting more insulation in your attic, you may be thinking 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 current insulation is soggy or damaged, you can often keep it. We recommend calling a pro who specializes in attic insulation in Indianapolis, like Broad Ripple Service Experts. That way, you’ll know your attic insulation is added correctly and meets building code standards. Correct installation also means you’ll get maximum benefits for energy efficiency. 

If your insulation appears to be shiny pebbles or chips, stop in advance of adding more insulation. Vermiculite insulation was frequently installed in homes built before 1990. The EPA says you should presume it has asbestos, which can cause 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® suggests attics should have at minimum 14” of insulation, which offers an R-value of 38. Attic insulation R-value measures how effectively insulation can stop heat. If you have a home in a northern climate, up to 18” or an R-value of 49 is suggested. 

R-value is also affected by the kind of insulation you install, its depth and how it’s added. When you work with a pro like Broad Ripple 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? 

Broad Ripple 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 have. Here are the types of attic insulation we put in. 

Batt Attic Insulation 

This kind of insulation is available 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 offers excellent protection against fire, water and sound. Usually constructed from recycled jeans, cotton insulation is a sustainable choice 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 wise material if you have many small areas to fill, such as around pipes, wiring or framing. While cellulose is budget-friendly and fire resistant, you’ll also have to realize 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 strongest barrier against air, vapor and water. Spray foam attic insulation is great for sealing cracks and other difficult-to-access spots. It’s extremely long-lasting, doesn’t flatten and offers a natural sound block. 

When you want to install additional in your attic, Broad Ripple Service Experts can assist you. Our licensed and certified Experts are here to provide skilled suggestions and excellent service that includes a 100% satisfaction guarantee.* Call us at 317-527-0271 or use our online scheduler to book an appointment now.