Fixing Attic Insulation Issues

Replacing an attic’s insulation is a big job, but it can be necessary. Low energy efficiency, water damage, pest problems, and smoke odor can all require that old attic insulation be removed and replaced. On paper, that sounds like a relatively simple job. In reality, attic insulation removal and replacement is a difficult job that requires specialized equipment and experience.

Reasons for Attic Insulation Removal and Replacement

In perfect conditions, attic insulation can last for many years. Unfortunately, there are a number of situations which make insulation replacement necessary. Efficiency issues, smoke and water damage, and pest infestations are all reasons that attic insulation might need to be replaced sooner rather than later.

Sometimes older insulation or improperly installed insulation needs to be replaced to increase the energy efficiency of a home. Attics can be drafty places. When they are not insulated properly, they can cause the rest of the house to require excessive heating and/or cooling. Many homeowners who replace their attic insulation find their homes are much more comfortable. They also notice that their energy bills drop significantly.

Damage like water or smoke can cause lingering problems for a homeowner. Dampness from water entering the attic can cause dangerous mold growth. Smoke from a house fire or local wildfire can get into insulation and cause long-term odor issues. In these cases, the only solution is to replace the insulation and disinfect the area.

Pests and rodents can also be a problem in attics. If they get into the insulation, it is almost impossible to get rid of all of the feces, urine, and nests even after the pest problem has been eliminated. Removing damaged insulation, properly disinfecting the area, and replacing the insulation is the best solution.

Professional Attic Insulation Removal and Replacement

Removing the insulation from an attic, properly disinfecting the area, deodorizing, and installing new insulation is a huge job. Working with insulation can also be dangerous if proper precautions are not taken. It pays to hire experienced professionals who will take the following steps:

1)    Inspect the attic and assess the issues and/or damage.

2)    Move out any contents of the attic.

3)    Seal off the area so insulation dust does not move into other areas of the home.

4)    Remove the insulation. Batting insulation is rolled up and removed by hand and then the area is vacuumed. Blown-in insulation I removed using a specialized vacuum cleaner.

5)    Old insulation is safely bagged and removed from the home.

6)    The area is cleaned, deodorized, and sanitized.

7)    New high-efficiency insulation is installed.

8)    All protective sheeting is removed, and attic contents are moved back in.

Choosing the Right Attic Insulation Removal Company

Not all attic insulation removal companies are equal. It is important for homeowners to choose a company that has experience in this type of work. They should also offer other services such as HVAC vent cleaning, pest and mold remediation, and have experience with smoke odor removal.

With the right professional help, removing attic insulation, sanitizing the area, and replacing the insulation can be a relatively fast and simple project.