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May 13, 2021
Are you getting ready to install new insulation in your California home? Then you’re probably wondering what’s going to happen to your old insulation. Many homeowners assume they can simply install new insulation on top of what they already have in place, but this isn’t usually the case.
Insulation loses its effectiveness over time, and old insulation typically needs to be removed in order for the new insulation to perform properly.
When Should I Remove Insulation?
Your old insulation will need to be removed if:
1. The Insulation Is Wet
Moisture can cause insulation to compact and degrade, rendering it ineffective. Moisture can also encourage mold and mildew to grow inside your insulation, which can affect your indoor air quality and create a musty smell in your home.
Wet insulation can be caused by a leak but is more commonly the result of air moving through the insulation. Air carries moisture with it, and if there are gaps and cracks—called air leaks—in your home’s construction, water will find its way into your insulation. Air sealing is a process that’s used to stop this kind of air movement, and it’s typically completed during an insulation installation.
2. There’s a Pest Infestation
Pests like rodents and cockroaches are attracted to old insulation and often use it as a nesting place. If your insulation has been infested with pests of any sort, it will need to be removed. You should also have a professional clean the space and seal up any pest entry points before your new insulation is installed to prevent the same thing from happening again.
3. The Insulation Is Compacted
When insulation is compacted, it loses most of its insulating properties. Insulation can compress as it ages, but it can also become compacted due to improper installation methods, underlining the importance of partnering with an experienced insulation contractor.
4. The Fire Retardant Has Become Ineffective
Certain types of loose-fill and blown-in insulation like cellulose insulation are treated with a fire retardant that can lose its effectiveness over time. To avoid the risk of a house fire and the need for fire restoration services, it’s important to remove old insulation.
Schedule Attic Insulation Removal and Replacement in California
Not sure whether your old insulation has started to fail? Greencat can help you find out. Our team can conduct an energy assessment to find out how well your insulation is performing and where it needs to be replaced.
Then, we’ll safely remove and dispose of any old or damaged insulation and our certified insulation specialists will install your new fiberglass, cellulose, or spray foam insulation properly, ensuring years of optimal performance. We’re proud to be a trusted insulation contractor among homeowners in Los Angeles, Orange County, Western Riverside County, Western San Bernardino County, and throughout all of California.