Do You Need To Remove Existing Insulation From Your Attic?

Many homeowners know the importance of insulation, and with the cost of electricity rising, more and more people are checking to ensure that their insulation is doing its job. Many people have been told that they would need to remove all existing insulation from their attic- an additional cost. Here at Green ID Arizona, we believe that homeowners should have all of the information that we do.

Do you have enough insulation in your home?

So, Do You Really Need To Remove Existing Insulation From The Attic Before You Blow New Insulation In?

Not necessarily. Most forms of insulation can last for decades when taken care of properly. Unless there are obvious signs of wet spots, mold, etc., then you do not need to remove the insulation. If there are signs such as wet spots or mold, the issue must be addressed before replacing the insulation anyways (otherwise it will just happen again!).  
Of course, if the insulation is in good condition, there is no need to remove it. Adding on an extra layer of insulation can help lower your energy bills each month. Unless your home was constructed with energy efficiency in mind, it is very likely that your home could benefit from added insulation. In fact, the EPA estimates that “homeowners can save an average of 15% on heating and cooling costs (or an average of 11% on total energy costs) by air sealing their homes and adding insulation in attics, floors over crawl spaces and basements” (EnergyStar). This adds up quickly, as you may imagine!

What Do I Really Need To Do?

Although you do not necessarily need to remove the insulation in your attic before you blow new insulation, you should air seal the attic before the new insulation is blown in. Air sealing is the process of identifying and sealing gaps, cracks, and openings in the attic space that allow air to leak in or out of them. This occurs especially around plumbing vents, electrical wiring, chimneys, etc. Think “close the door- we aren't trying to air condition the backyard!” but with your attic… you could actually be cooling the outside.

What Does Attic Air Sealing Do?

Attic air sealing overall creates a tight envelope around the attic (which ultimately leads to your living space) in order to improve energy efficiency and reduce your energy bill each month. Here are a few benefits of attic air sealing. 

1. Prevents Energy Loss: Air leaks in the attic can allow hot air to enter during the summer and cold air to enter in the winter- driving up those energy bills. Especially in the 120 degree weather here in Arizona- this can make a huge difference. 
   
2. Prevents Moisture: Air leaks can allow moisture to enter the attic, leading to additional issues like mold and mildew, wood rot, and insulation degradation (as we discussed before with insulation that would need to be replaced).
   
3. Improves Comfort: Air sealing the attic allows you to maintain more constant temperatures throughout the home, something that a lot of people have issues with. (You know, that one SUPER hot room?)! 
   
4. Enhances Insulation Performance: Insulation works better in a properly sealed space. Of course, air leaks are not good for insulation for a variety of reasons, but it can reduce the efficiency of your brand new insulation. 
   
5. Reduced Noise From Outside: Attic insulation and sealing can reduce outside noises, and increase your comfort in your home.  
   
6. Less Pests: Less pollen, dust, dirt, and insects will be able to enter your home- nobody wants that! 
   

How Do I Know If I Need New Insulation?

The best way to find out if you need insulation is from a certified energy auditor. Energy auditors know exactly what to look for, and can give more insight on how much new insulation could actually save you each month. A seasoned auditor will also be able to give additional information on how to keep your home cool and comfortable. 
Some indications that you may need insulation would also include high energy bills, temperature fluctuations, uneven heating or cooling, drafts, visible damage, older insulation, or recent home improvements (especially when adding space to the home).

Is It Time?

Is it the right time for you to seal your attic and add on insulation? As we discussed, insulation and attic sealing can save you up to 15% a month on your electric bill for years to come.

​If you are ready, call us at 602-926-1650 or visit our website GreenIntegratedDesign.com. We would be happy to help you figure out what works best for you and your family. 
Not sure yet? Call us to schedule an energy audit- we will let you know where your home is leaking air, and how you can save money on your electricity bill each month. See below what that entails. 
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**Our energy audit includes a quick interview before we test how energy efficient your home is. This includes a Visual Inspection of the House, Combustion Safety and Gas Leakage Tests, Whole House Blower Door Test, Duct Leakage Test, Duct Design Evaluation, Infrared Camera Inspection, Utility Bill Analysis, Static Pressure Test, Pressure Test, Water Heating Evaluation, Insulation and Air Barrier Evaluation, Pool Pump Evaluation, and a Home Energy Report.