Are you wondering if you can add new insulation on top of the old insulation in your attic? In many cases, the answer is yes, unless the old insulation is damp, moldy, or vermiculite. If the old insulation is dry, but seems to have been wet before, it's important to find out the cause and fix the problem. If the insulation is in good condition, a new layer can be placed on top without difficulty. However, the method of application depends on the type of insulation that is already installed.
A general rule of thumb is to not install front insulation on top of existing insulation, unless it is the final insulating layer and the barrier is placed towards the interior of the house. Any other configuration creates a moisture pocket, which is a breeding ground for mold and rot. It is a non-automatic if your attic has vermiculite insulation. Vermiculite insulation, similar to a pebble and with a silver, brown or gray appearance, was mainly used until the 1950s. Unfortunately, it contains traces of asbestos that could cause lung diseases if not removed immediately by a professional.
Removing and installing a new insulator is a complex process that requires the touch of a professional. For many California residents, attic insulation looks like a “fix it and forget it” type of material, especially since it may not be visible from behind attic walls. Sometimes it's totally acceptable, and even preferable, to add a new insulator to the old one to form a large family of happy insulators. Removing insulation from attics can be an overwhelming and foreboding project, which is why most homeowners have a professional service for this job. If you are wondering if it is possible to add insulation to an attic with existing insulation, it is common to place new insulation on top of the old one. Attic insulation is an essential component to taking advantage of most of your home's heating and cooling without literally skyrocketing your energy bills.
OJ Insulation's insulation contractors are dedicated professionals with the training and certifications necessary to effectively apply residential and commercial insulation in California. If it's been a while since you last insulated the attic, the first thing you'll notice are the attic floor uprights that show through. So why should we think about eliminating attic insulation? Is removing attic insulation the new thing, as was installing a popcorn texture on the roof? Or is there a logical reason? Expert contractors who specialize in insulation advise that it is best to remove old fiberglass insulation before installing a new cellulose insulation, due to the possible presence of fungus, mold, or rodent excrement. Poorly aligned insulation still retains its insulating properties, but misalignment has made it useless. Unless the insulation is wet, moldy, or infested with pests, you don't need to remove it before adding insulation on top of it. Of course, you should only add loose-fill insulation to the old insulation if the old material is in good condition. Adding new attic insulation over existing material can be done safely and effectively as long as certain conditions are met.
It's important to make sure that any existing material is dry and free from mold or pests before adding more layers. Additionally, front-facing layers should be avoided unless they are placed towards the interior of your home. If you're unsure about how to proceed with your project or have any questions about safety or effectiveness of your current setup, contact an experienced professional for advice.
