If you’re planning to install spray foam insulation in your attic, it’s essential to remove any existing insulation. This is because old insulation can compromise the effectiveness of the new spray foam insulation. This article will discuss insulation removal pros at Stellrr Insulation & Spray Foam and why old insulation needs to be removed before installing spray foam, and provide some tips on doing it. Below is why:
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Old Insulation Can Become Wet And Moldy
One of the main reasons old insulation needs to be removed before installing spray foam is that it can become wet and moldy. When this happens, the insulation will lose its effectiveness, but it can also pose a health risk to you and your family. Mold spores can cause several adverse health effects, including respiratory problems, headaches, and skin irritation. So if you have any old insulation in your attic that’s wet or moldy, it’s essential to remove it immediately.
Old Insulation Can Reduce The Efficiency Of New Spray Foam Insulation
Another reason why old insulation needs to be removed before spray foam is that it can reduce the efficiency of the new insulation. When you have a layer of old, wet insulation between the new insulation and the roof deck, it will decrease the effectiveness of the new insulation. This is because the old insulation will act as an insulator and prevent the new insulation from working correctly. As a result, your attic will not be as well-insulated as possible, and you’ll waste money on the new insulation.
Old Insulation Can Contain Asbestos
If your home was built before 1980, there’s a good chance that the insulation in your attic contains asbestos. Asbestos is a harmful substance that can cause cancer and other serious health problems. If you have any old insulation in your attic that you suspect might contain asbestos, it must be tested by a professional. If it does contain asbestos, you’ll need to have it removed by a qualified contractor before installing the new spray foam insulation.
Old Insulation Can Be Difficult To Remove
Removing old insulation can be a time-consuming and challenging task. If you’re not familiar with the process, it’s best to hire a professional to do it for you. When hiring a professional, look for:
A licensed and insured company: Make sure that the company you hire is licensed and insured. That will protect you in the event of an accident or injury.
A company that has experience removing old insulation: It’s essential to choose a company that has experience removing it. This way, you can know that they know what they’re doing and will do a good job.
Ask the company about their experience removing old insulation before hiring them: This is very important, as not all companies have experience with this.
They should have insurance: As mentioned before, the company needs to have insurance in case of an accident.
- It’s Essential To Install New Insulation Immediately After Removing The Old Insulation
Once you’ve removed the old insulation, installing new insulation immediately is essential. That will help prevent mold formation and ensure that your attic is adequately insulated. If you’re unsure how to install the new insulation, several resources are available online, such as instructional videos and tutorials.
Tips On How To Do It
Removing Any Objects Blocking Access To The Attic
If you have any objects blocking access to the attic, such as a water heater or air conditioning unit, you’ll need to remove them before installing the new insulation. This may require some heavy lifting, so be sure to have a friend or family member help you out. If you don’t feel comfortable removing these objects yourself, you can hire a professional to do it for you.
Removing The Old Insulation
Once you have access to the attic, you’ll need to remove the old insulation. This can be a difficult task, so it’s best to hire a professional to do it for you. The professional should be equipped with the proper tools and knowledge to get the job done safely and efficiently.
Installing The New Insulation
Once the old insulation has been removed, it’s time to install the new insulation. There are some ways to do this, so choose the best method for your needs. You can find many resources online that provide instructions on installing insulation properly.
Sealing Any Gaps Or Cracks In The Attic
Make sure you seal any gaps before installing the new insulation. Holes and cracks in the attic can allow air and moisture to enter, which can cause the new insulation not to work correctly. It’s important to seal these gaps and cracks before installing the new insulation. You can use caulk, spray foam, or weather stripping to fill them.
Removing old insulation and installing new insulation can be a difficult task. However, you can do it yourself with the right tools and knowledge. Be sure to seal any gaps or cracks in the attic before installing the new insulation to ensure that it works properly. If you’re not sure how to install the new insulation, there are many online resources, or you can choose to hire a professional.