Should You Remove Old Attic Insulation Before Adding New?

Usually, no. If your existing attic insulation is dry, clean and free of rodent droppings or mold, it still has insulating value, and new insulation can be blown right on top. Removal makes sense only when the old insulation is causing a problem or hiding one.

When Old Insulation Should Come Out

• It is wet, stained or matted from roof leaks
• It has mold, or the attic smells musty
• It is contaminated with rodent droppings, urine or nests
• It holds smoke odor after a fire
• You want to air seal the attic floor properly and the old layer is in the way

When It Can Stay

If the insulation is dry, has no odor and is not contaminated, keep it. Two layers add together, so 4 inches of clean old insulation plus new blown-in insulation can reach R-49 with less new material.

Watch for Vermiculite

Some older homes have vermiculite, a pebbly, gray-brown or gold loose fill that can contain asbestos. Do not disturb it. Have it tested before anyone removes or covers it.

What Removal Costs

Attic insulation removal in Oklahoma City typically runs about $0.75 to $2.00 per square foot. For a 1,500 square foot attic, removal plus new blown-in insulation commonly runs about $3,000 to $6,750.

The Best Time to Air Seal

If insulation does come out, take the chance to air seal the attic floor. With the attic floor clear, every top plate and penetration is easy to reach. Then re-insulate to R-38 to R-49. See what R-value an OKC attic needs.

Attic Insulation Elite offers free attic inspections and written quotes seven days a week, 8am to 8pm. Call (405) 400-2050 or request a free quote online.