Is your attic insulation looking a little worse for wear? Don’t wait until you’re facing a full-blown energy crisis (or a critter condo) in your attic. Here’s when it’s time to say “out with the old” and invest in fresh, efficient insulation with an attic insulation removal:
Attic Insulation Removal Reason #1: Uninvited Guests: Evicting Rodents (and Their Mess)
The first and most common reason for home or attic insulation removal is rodent infestation. Let’s face it, attics are prime real estate for rodents. Unfortunately, common insulation types are like magnets for critters seeking a cozy nest. And it’s not just rodents to be aware of. Raccoons, squirrels, possums, and birds also like to nest in attics.
After more than 40 years of looking into attic areas, half of the attics we inspect have had evidence of some kind of rodent activity in them. Here is a list of the types of insulation the animals are attracted to:
- Fiberglass batting (white, pink, yellow and brownish)
- Fiberglass loose blown material (white, pink, yellow )
- Rock wool (dirty white or gray)
- Palco wool (redwood shavings)
Why it’s a problem: Rodent urine and droppings aren’t just unpleasant, they pose serious health risks. We’re talking about respiratory problems, lingering odors, and even potential staining on your ceiling. Yikes!
The solution: If you’ve got an infestation, attic insulation removal is non-negotiable. It’s the only way to ensure a safe and healthy home environment.
Attic Insulation Removal Reason #2: Fire and Smoke Damage
Insulation that’s been through a fire is rarely salvageable. Even if the damage isn’t immediately visible, that lingering smoke odor? It’s nearly impossible to get rid of.
Why it’s a problem: Smoke-damaged insulation not only carries an unpleasant smell, but it can also release harmful particles into the air.
The solution: Time for a fresh start! Removing the damaged insulation is essential for restoring a healthy and safe living space.
Attic Insulation Removal Reason #3: Water Damage: Preventing a Moldy Mess
Whether it’s a leaky roof or a burst pipe, water and insulation are a recipe for disaster. Once the insulation gets wet it will hold that moisture and create other problems such as mold, mildew, pipe corrosion and sheetrock damage. The insulation will also lose its R-factor and the ability to insulate due to being compromised from the water. All in all, the insulation is no longer effective and is now a liability for further damage. Immediate removal is suggested to minimize further consequences.
Why it’s a problem: Damp insulation compromises your home’s energy efficiency and poses significant health risks due to mold growth.
The solution: Act fast! Removing water-damaged insulation is crucial to prevent further damage and protect your family’s health.
Attic Insulation Removal Reason #4: Home improvement projects
Planning a renovation? Removing existing insulation before tackling projects like installing new lighting, and fans, rewiring, or adjusting ceiling heights makes the job smoother and prevents accidental damage to your new insulation later on.
Why it’s a problem: Trying to work around old insulation can be messy, inefficient, and lead to compromised results.
The solution: Start fresh! Removing the old insulation allows for a clean slate and ensures optimal performance for your new upgrades.
The process for attic insulation removal
Batt insulation is removed manually by rolling it up, bagging it up, removing it and hauling it away.
Blown or loose fill insulation is removed by a high powered vacuum system that sucks up the insulation and animal debris. All materials will be hauled away and properly disposed of. At this point an inspection for any entry points will be sealed and secured.
If rodent or fire damage were the reason for removal the attic will be deodorized after the removal and before new insulation is installed.
Out with the Old, In with the Eco-Friendly New
Once the old insulation is gone, it’s time to choose a replacement that’s both effective and healthy for your home. Skip the fiberglass and opt for a sustainable and high-performing option like cellulose insulation:
Learn more about the benefits of cellulose insulation, a safe, eco-friendly, and energy-efficient choice for your home.
- Made from recycled papers, it is non-toxic and free of, formaldehyde, asbestos or glass fibers. Cellulose insulation also meets the safety standards of the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission. Due to a unique fire retardant made of 100 percent borate, this insulation is nonflammable and rodent resistant.
- Cellulose insulation is very effective at sealing buildings against air filtration which is one of the most important factors for energy efficiency in the thermal performance of a building. Cellulose can fill every nook and cranny leaving every space insulated with the dense material. Buildings insulated with cellulose have a noticeable “quietness.”
We do not recommend the afore mentioned insulations of; fiberglass blown or batting, rock wool, palco wool because they are the least effective of insulation options, health hazards with warning labels right on the packaging, and animals are attracted to these products.
Ready to Breathe Easy in a Healthier, More Comfortable Home?
Contact us today for a free consultation for attic insulation removal and let us help you create a cozier, more energy-efficient home