Thinking about upgrading your home’s insulation but wondering if it’s viable to pile on new insulation over the old stuff? The short answer is yes. But, before making a decision, there are a few key things to consider.
In this post, the insulation experts at Installed Building Products Portland go over everything you need to know about installing new insulation over old insulation as a strategy for making your home energy-efficient.
Adding New Insulation Over Old or Damaged Insulation
While adding new insulation over your old insulation can be a cost-effective way to improve your home’s overall energy efficiency, your old insulation needs to be in decent condition before adding new insulation.
This makes it important to consult with a professional, as they can accurately assess whether your current insulation is good enough to add new insulation on top or if it needs to be removed entirely.
When To Remove Old Insulation
Sometimes, the most energy-efficient solution is removing your old insulation before installing a new layer. Here are a few instances where it’s better to opt for insulation removal:
- Wet or damaged insulation: With wet insulation, you risk issues like mold growth, warping and other potential structural damage.
- Pest infestations: If your insulation becomes a playground for rodents or insects, it’s best to remove and replace it to ensure the infestation is eliminated for good.
- Fire or smoke damage: Insulation that’s been exposed to fire or smoke has likely lost its effectiveness. To restore your home’s optimal energy efficiency, it’s best to remove and replace it.
When in doubt, consult with an expert for clarity and guidance on the next steps for your insulation project.
How Does Re-Insulation Work?
The specific approach to re-insulating your home will depend on a variety of factors, including the type of insulation you choose, where that insulation will be installed and whether your current insulation needs replacing.
If it’s in good shape and doesn’t need to be completely removed, keep these tips in mind:
- Fiberglass (batt or rolled) or cellulose (loose-fill) insulation can often be installed on top of old insulation.
- Insulation should be rolled out perpendicular to the joists — and unfaced rolls should be used.
- Rolled insulation should not be tacked down. The R-value can be reduced if the insulation is squashed or flattened.
- Any vermiculite insulation found in your attic should be tested. If harmful chemicals are found in the insulation, the vermiculite should be removed by a certified professional before installing more insulation.
- It’s recommended to air seal before installing insulation, as air leaks can hinder its energy-efficiency performance.
While you may be tempted to DIY your insulation project, it’s not recommended since improperly handling insulation material can lead to safety hazards such as asbestos exposure and structural damage to your home.
Contact Your Local Insulation Contractors for Insulation Services in Portland
When it’s time to enhance your insulation, make IBP Portland your go-to choice. Our team of experts is highly trained and experienced in all things insulation, ensuring the best solution for your insulation needs.
Whether you’re looking to remove and replace your old insulation or add new layers to your home, you can trust our professionals to deliver peak energy efficiency and comfort.
Contact IBP Portland today at 503-894-7661 to schedule a consultation.
