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.
Loose-fill insulation can be vacuumed out, but this used insulation can't be blown back in without risk of damage to the machine. If you want to reuse loose-fill insulation, relocating it in the space and moving it back after other work is completed can be a better option.
The cost to remove old insulation from an attic is $1 to $2 per square foot or $1,600 to $3,600 total on average.
Insulation needs to have room to expand to its full size to be effective, so the old definitely needs to be removed. Not to mention the old stuff is full of dust, probably some rodent excrement, and who knows what else that has accumulated in your attic over the years, so that's another reason to get rid of it.
As fiberglass degrades, it can become dust-like and relatively hard to remove. Because of this, it's advisable to contact a professional specializing in fiberglass insulation in Northern California to remove your home's or business' old insulation materials.
It's going to get everywhere and make an even bigger mess, so you will need to get a vacuum to remove insulation from the attic. We use a 1,500-horsepower shop vac when we do the removal, and in most cases, hook that to a second attic insulation removal vacuum to get the suction we need.
Asbestos insulation comes in many forms and can look loose, lumpy, and fluffy like wool or hardened like corrugated cardboard or pebbly, and has a gray, gray-brown, or silvery gold color.
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.
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.
Why is vacuum insulation considered the best known insulator? Vacuum technology is used to engineer high-performance thermal insulation to prevent conductive and convective heat transfer. With its complete lack of atoms, a vacuum is often considered to be the best known insulator.
Despite the recycling issues, fiberglass is still a good choice because it is created mostly from recycled materials. It lasts for decades, and the insulation can be completely recovered and reused after a demolition.
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.
Avoid aggressive scraping or pulling that could create dust. Also, avoid pulling or lifting the insulation towards you. We recommend using a vacuum specialized for removing loose fill insulation. It's more effective and saves time and effort.
However, there are situations where spray foam insulation is not suitable. For example, you should NOT spray foam insulation over old insulation. Gaps can form when spray foam is applied to batts and rolls, reducing the effectiveness of the new insulation.
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.
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.
The average U.S. homeowner spends about $1,852 to install insulation. Depending on the type of insulation, square footage, site location, and material, you might spend anywhere from $498 to $4,500. Insulation can keep your home cozy and warm on long winter nights or cool and comfortable on hot sunny days.
For more than 50 years, fiber glass insulation has been manufactured with a binder that contains formaldehyde. It's been used throughout the world as a safe and effective insulation material.
1975: The EPA banned asbestos pipe insulation and asbestos block insulation, impacting boilers and hot water tanks. 1989: The EPA banned new uses of asbestos. 1990: The EPA banned spray-on asbestos insulation in buildings, structures, pipes, and conduits except under specific conditions.
If you have vermiculite insulation in your home, you should assume this material may be contaminated with asbestos and be aware of steps you can take to protect yourself and your family from exposure to asbestos.
If you're wondering what bad insulation looks like, check to see if it is moldy, wet, or discolored. It may be unevenly dispersed and thin in areas.