Keep It or Toss It: Should I Get Rid of Aging 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 enough attic insulation, now is a good time to install more. Having enough insulation helps even out your house’s temps and stop wintertime issues including ice dams, according to the Insulation Institute. 

As you prep 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 Instances, 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 Elkhart, like BW/Cook 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 top benefits for energy efficiency. 

If your insulation resembles shiny pebbles or chips, stop before adding extra insulation. Vermiculite insulation was frequently installed in homes built prior to 1990. The EPA says you should presume it includes 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 gives an R-value of 38. Attic insulation R-value measures how effectively insulation can stop heat. If you reside in a northern climate, up to 18” or an R-value of 49 is suggested. 

R-value is also influenced by the kind of insulation you install, its density and how it’s added. When you work with a pro like BW/Cook Service Experts, our specialists take all the guessing out of R-values and how much insulation needs to be installed. 

What’s the Best Insulation for My Attic? 

BW/Cook Service Experts chooses 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 use. 

Batt Attic Insulation 

This kind of insulation comes in sheets trimmed 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 provides top protection against fire, water and sound. Usually constructed from recycled jeans, cotton insulation is a green option that delivers 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 many small spaces to fill, including 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 settle 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 ideal for sealing cracks and other difficult-to-get at spots. It’s extremely tough, doesn’t flatten and gives a natural sound block. 

When you want to install additional in your attic, BW/Cook Service Experts can assist you. Our licensed and certified Experts are here to give experienced recommendations and great service that includes a 100% satisfaction guarantee.* Contact us at 574-218-6404 or use our online scheduler to book an appointment now.