If the insulation in your attic is beginning to show its age, you may be considering removing it and installing new insulation. This can seem daunting, but when done correctly, can make all the difference in how much energy you’re losing from your home. Those seeking to improve their home’s energy efficiency should click here for removing old attic insulation as a way to reduce their carbon footprint. However, before undertaking such a big project, it’s important to take stock of the potential pros and cons of such an endeavor. Doing so will help you decide if this is an investment worth making.
Here, we’ll explore these advantages and disadvantages so that you can decide whether removing old attic insulation is right for you.
The Pros
Below are the most prominent advantages of removing old attic insulation;
Improved Air Quality
Removing the old attic insulation can result in major improvements to the air quality of the home. Older insulation may contain allergens, dust mites, pet dander, and other airborne contaminants, which can cause allergic reactions and respiratory illnesses in occupants. Removing this insulation eliminates these elements from the environment, making it a safer place for your family. This is especially beneficial for those who suffer from allergies or asthma. Not only does it keep them healthier, but it also allows them to enjoy a more comfortable living space.
Prevent Moisture Problems
Moisture can lead to high energy consumption due to the energy needed for heating and cooling, as well as the reduction of effectiveness of any air sealing efforts. Old fiberglass insulation absorbs moisture which can cause leakage into the ceilings, floorboards, baseboards, and walls. Although proper ventilation can help reduce these problems, replacing all old insulation with spray foam insulation provides an even better solution. By spray foaming the attic, you will keep your home warm in winter while avoiding any potential moisture damage.
Increased Resale Value
Replacing old attic insulation can be extremely beneficial to any homeowner. Not only does it help reduce energy costs throughout the year, but it will also increase the resale value of your home if you decide to put it up for sale in the future. Potential buyers like seeing that they are getting a well-insulated home with modern insulation materials. This ensures they won’t be spending too much on expensive energy bills in the years to come. Therefore, if you invest in new attic insulation material now, it will pay off later when your house is ready to hit the market.
The Cons
Some downsides of removing old attic insulation include;
High Cost
Removing old attic insulation can often be a tedious and expensive process. While new insulation will guarantee properly insulated rooms and lower energy bills over time, you may not realize the high cost of money and lost energy required to get rid of it safely. Not only do you need to replace the old insulation but also additional labor costs for installing new materials.
In addition, removing out-of-date fiberglass blankets can generate an inserted amount of sawdust that needs to be vacuumed up afterward and disposed of, constituting further price increases.
Time-Consuming
Removing old attic insulation can be a tedious and time-consuming task that many homeowners dread facing. Depending on the size and configuration of your attic space, it could take hours or even days to remove insulation by hand.
Furthermore, the process involves much more than just removing existing insulation. You’ll need to cover exposed wires, check existing ventilation and re-insulate gaps after everything has been cleared out. The overall effort involved in the process can make it a major undertaking and quickly undermine any potential savings on utility bills you may have envisioned for the future.
Potential Health Risks
Removing outdated and hazardous attic insulation may sound like a straightforward job, but it should not be taken lightly. It poses potential health risks to those in its vicinity. Unfortunately, some attic insulation includes asbestos, which can release contagious substances into the air when agitated. Exposure to such materials can increase an individual’s likelihood of developing mesothelioma, asbestosis, and other life-altering illnesses. Therefore, if you find yourself beginning a project like this, it is essential that you take extra precautionary measures so that you can remain safe from any potential harm.
Removing old attic insulation can be a complex decision. It is beneficial when the insulation has been damaged or is too far gone to be salvaged, as it can save you money in the long run. On the other hand, it can cause problems if not done correctly, such as mold growth or a disruption in the airflow of the home. So no matter the reasons for an attic insulation upgrade, working with a professional contractor is recommended to ensure the job is done right and that any risks are minimized.