In many cases you can add new insulation on top of old insulation, unless the old insulation is wet, mouldy, or vermiculite. If the old insulation is dry but appears to have previously been wet, you should look for the cause and repair the problem.
The answer is yes, you can put new insulation over old. But there are some circumstances that would require insulation removal first, such as in the case of contaminated insulation from pests, water or smoke. Moisture is the biggest culprit, as it can lead to mold and mildew, as well as ceiling and roof rafter rot.
In the majority of cases, removal of old insulation is NOT necessary before adding new. Nonetheless, we recommend getting a comprehensive assessment by a home insulation professional to make sure there are no issues that could adversely affect the efficiency of the new material.
Yes, it is generally advisable to remove old attic insulation before adding new insulation. Here are some reasons why: Moisture and Mold: Old insulation can retain moisture, which may lead to mold growth. Removing it allows you to inspect for any signs of water damage or mold that need to be addressed.
Is it possible to add new insulation overtop existing insulation rather than replacing it entirely? Yes, it is possible and often recommended to retrofit insulation in your attic or other parts of your home rather than completely replace the insulation.
You will be able to add new ceiling insulation batts on top to reach the ideal R-Value in your roof. To learn more about assessing your existing ceiling insulation for its condition and thermal R-Value check out our blog: WHAT R-VALUE INSULATION IS IN MY ROOF AND CEILING.
Roof insulation batts can be added in more than one layer. Adding a double layer of roof insulation negates the effects of thermal bridging and seals any gaps that may be present in the first layer.
Old insulation materials can become more flammable over time. By removing outdated insulation, you reduce the potential for fire hazards, creating a safer home environment. If the old insulation was installed incorrectly, it might have gaps or compressed areas that reduce its effectiveness.
SAVINGS AND COMFORT
EPA estimates that homeowners can save an average of 15% on heating and cooling costs (or an average of 11% on total energy costs) by air sealing their homes and adding insulation in attics, floors over crawl spaces and basements.
Any reputable insulation installer will thoroughly remove old insulation before putting in the new. However, as a homeowner, you should double-check that they remove all of the old insulation as a first step.
It is possible to over-insulate your house so much that it can't breathe. The whole point of home insulation is to tightly seal your home's interior. But if it becomes too tightly sealed with too many layers of insulation, moisture can get trapped inside those layers.
Some ceiling insulation can lose its effectiveness as it settles and compacts over time, so check whether it needs to be topped up or replaced altogether. If the height of your existing ceiling insulation is less than 50mm thick it should be topped up.
When it comes to insulating ceilings, attics, walls, and crawlspaces, homeowners and builders often choose fiberglass batts. Besides being cost-effective, they prevent heat from passing through walls, ceilings, and floors. Generally, fiberglass batts come in 2*4 or 2*6, but you can cut them down if necessary.
Place an insulation hose into the hole, and blow the insulation product until the space is full. Remove the hose, and cut 3” x 8” strips of plywood. Insert a plywood strip into each hole, securing it with screws above and below the hole. Replace the hole cutout, and attach it to the plywood using a drywall screw.
However, insulation can start falling from fiberglass batts after 15 to 20 years, so if your insulation was installed in batts well over a decade ago, it might be time for an inspection or a home energy audit.
Attic insulation costs anywhere from $1,680 to $3,125, depending on the size of your attic and the material used. On average, most homeowners shell out around $2,380. These costs include the insulation materials and installation by a professional.
Also, when laying down additional insulation, work from the perimeter toward the attic opening. Never lay insulation over recessed light fixtures or soffit vents. Keep all insulation at least 3 inches away from recessed "can" lights, unless they are rated IC (Insulated Ceiling).
Best Time of Year to Buy Insulation
In this case, the spring is the best time, because you will also start to see savings in the summer months. The same is true for warmer climates, just different times of year because you'll want the job finished before the heat sets in.
Insulation batts are actually made from materials like glass wool or fibreglass. The great news is that their expected lifespan is around 100 years! So, unless some specific damage has been done to them, it's unlikely that they have broken down.
Removing old insulation is generally recommended if it's damaged, contaminated with mold, or infested with pests. However, if the insulation is in decent shape and just needs a boost, adding a new layer on top can be a cost-effective option.
For older homes, we recommend getting your insulation inspected every 15 years as the quality of the insulation products may not be known. However, more modern ceiling insulation products are designed and manufactured to last the lifetime of your home.
The answer is yes! Past a certain point, insulation in a vented attic will do more harm than good.
When it comes to insulation, it's generally recommended to leave a gap between the insulation material and any other surfaces, such as walls, ceilings, or roofs. This gap provides ventilation and prevents moisture buildup, which can lead to mould and other problems.
In many cases you can add new insulation on top of old insulation, unless the old insulation is wet, mouldy, or vermiculite. If the old insulation is dry but appears to have previously been wet, you should look for the cause and repair the problem.