Like most things in life, attic insulation has a lifespan. And some elements can even shorten that lifespan, such as vermin or water damage. If you’re unsure how old your insulation is or if it’s been damaged, consider calling in a professional for an inspection.
Even so, when it’s time to bite the bullet and have it replaced, or if you’re unsure which material to settle for, it’s best to talk to a pro Stellr offers attic insulation removal services, including inspection, to help make the decision easier. But before researching potential service providers, you need to consider a few variables. Let’s examine some of them below:
- The State of Your Insulation
If your insulation is generally in good shape but needs a little TLC, you can get away with cleaning your attic. A cleanup service or decontamination can help to remove any dirt, dust, or other debris that might be clogging up the insulation material’s pores and preventing it from doing its job properly. However, if your insulation is waterlogged, moldy, or otherwise damaged beyond repair, you’ll need to have it entirely replaced.
- The Age of Your Home
It’s common knowledge that older homes have less insulation than newer ones. Basically, building codes were less stringent in the past because insulation wasn’t as widely used as it is today.
As a result, you might need to add more insulation to your attic than a homeowner with a newer home. Ask a professional to assess your attic and determine whether you need new insulation material, which might necessitate the removal of the old insulation.
- Your Budget
The cost of removing and replacing your attic insulation determines whether you will go ahead with the project. But it’s not just the material cost you need to consider.
You also have to factor in the price of hiring a professional to do the job. If money is tight, look into doing the job yourself. But be warned, insulation removal is a dirty and potentially dangerous job, so it’s not for everyone. And while professional help doesn’t come cheap, it ensures the job is done safely and correctly.
While at it, consider the size of your attic, as this inevitably impacts removal costs. The larger your attic, the more you should expect to pay. Thus, ensure your budget can cater to the additional costs – in light of the scope or complexity of the project.
- The Type of Insulation You Have
Each of the various types of insulation on the market has its set of pros and cons. The removal process is generally the same regardless of your insulation type. However, be aware of some critical elements.
For instance, cellulose insulation is made from recycled paper products and is treated with chemicals to make it fire-resistant. This treatment can make the removal process more difficult, as the chemicals irritate the skin, eyes, and respiratory system. Inhaling cellulose insulation fibers can also lead to serious health problems.
So, if you have cellulose insulation in your attic, it’s best to leave the removal to the professionals. Similarly, fiberglass insulation is made from tiny glass fibers and comes chemically treated. As such, it might be prudent to let a well-equipped handle the work.
- Removal Solutions on Offer
The type of removal solution you go for will broadly impact the cost as service providers tend to offer various options. If you feel expert help is a tad beyond your budget, you can do it yourself.
But first, seek advice from a service provider on how to go about it. They can instruct you on the steps to follow for successful removal, then they can take up the project from there. The idea is to ensure the new installation helps your home remain energy efficient by having a pro handle the complex task.
- Prevailing Climate
The timing of your insulation project should also be in line with the climate. For instance, you’re better off having the work done during the autumn or spring as opposed to the dead of winter or the height of summer. This way, you can leave your windows and doors open to air out the house while the job is being done, which helps to minimize health risks associated with insulation removal.
If you opt to go ahead with the project in winter, you could pay a hefty price – in terms of the project’s cost and by way of your energy bill. What’s more, you could risk your family’s health by sealing up the house while the job is being done.
By all accounts, involving a pro ensures the insulation removal goes according to plan. But before hiring them, give thought to the variables we’ve outlined. That way, you can make a smart choice and move a step closer to ensuring your home is energy efficient and comfortable.