Expect costs of between $1 and $2 per square foot to remove insulation, with blown-in varieties near the lower end and rigid types near the top end. Keep in mind that those prices are for dry and in good condition non-asbestos insulation.
With all factors considered, the average attic junk and insulation removal costs around $1.50–$3 per square foot. If there's mold present, however, costs lean toward the top of that range or over — approximately $4.5–$6 per square foot.
Removing old insulation is generally recommended if it's damaged, contaminated with mold, or infested with pests.
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.
A team of skilled professionals can remove existing insulation in a single day and is able to accurately gauge dangers and weaknesses in your attic environment.
If you live in an older home, it may be time to remove your old blown in insulation material. A proper replacement will help lower utility bills, retain the value of your property, and keep you and your family comfortable all year round.
Blown-in insulation, available in fiberglass and cellulose varieties, generally lasts 20 to 30 years. Fiberglass tends to be the more durable option, while cellulose is more sensitive to humidity, which can affect its longevity in certain climates.
Unfortunately, the majority of homes built 50 years ago were not insulated at all. It is important to be aware of these insulation issues if your home is 50+ years old. Replacement (or new installation) may be necessary if your home is drafty, if you have high utility bills, etc.
Insulation is more than just material. It's about creating a healthy, efficient, and comfortable living space. Removing old insulation might seem like an extra step, but it's a leap toward better air quality, increased efficiency, and peace of mind. So, when you're looking to upgrade, don't just add—replace.
Rodent Removal: If your attic has become a hangout for rodents, they'll need to be removed and steps taken to make sure they don't come back. Rodent removal can cost between $170 and $570, and rodent-proofing can add another $125 to $200.
Blown-In Insulation (Fiberglass And Cellulose)
Because it is both efficient and economical, blown-in or loose-fill fiberglass is an insulation material that sees widespread use. In most homes, loose-fill insulation can survive anywhere from 80 to 100 years before needing replacement, provided that it is not damaged.
If you're using the garbage bag route, you will need many garbage bags to gather the abundance of cellulose. Every bag that you fill with cellulose should be properly squeezed to get all the inside air out before tying it up. With the proper equipment, professional attic insulation removal can take 8 to 10 hours.
Generally speaking, replacing old insulation may not be worth it if old insulation is dry, free of dust and it is not squashed. In this case, its removal isn't necessary. In fact, it can be quite beneficial to leave old insulation.
Moreover, the homes built before the 1980s had narrow cavities, which weren't suitable for insulation installation. Because of this, homeowners with old cavity wall insulation should consider removal and replacement to address health concerns and upgrade their insulation to modern materials.
Cons of Blown-In Attic Insulation:
Poor installation can lead to uneven coverage, material waste, and even structural issues like sagging ceilings. Hiring a skilled installer is crucial to getting the most out of this insulation type.
How long does blow-in insulation last? Typically, anywhere from 20 to 30 years. It can degrade if moisture, pests, or rodents invade the insulation. However, it can last anywhere from 80 to 100 years under the right conditions.
When blown-in insulation settles, your attic loses insulation performance. Settling compromises the R-value of your insulation.
Blown fiberglass insulation scores an R-value of 3.2 to 3.8, making it slightly less likely than rolled fiberglass to prevent the flow of heat into and out of your house. That being said, though, blown fiberglass insulation isn't meant to cover huge areas like rolled fiberglass insulation.
The preferred method of removing blown in insulation is by machine, using a vacuum process to suck the insulation out of the attic. This is the most efficient option and can save both time and money. If you're doing the removal yourself, you'll need to rent a high-powered insulation vacuum.