There are instances when you need to remove your old insulation from the attic. One of those times is when you have a rodent infestation problem that severely damages your insulation due to droppings and urine. You will also need fresh insulation in case of fire and water damage. In this rare situation where insulation removal is required, it is normally removed by hand and packed in bags for careful removal. If your initial insulation was blown material, then your professional attic insulation Toronto service will remove all the material using an insulation removal vacuum since its more effective. Depending on the design of your house and the attic hatch opening, the removal vacuum will be stationed outside so that it creates negative pressure from the attic forcing air to be drawn up. This method ensures you have a clean job with little or no debris from the attic entering the internal living spaces of your home.
How to clean attic for insulation
Attic insulation removal and cleanup is a messy job, that is why it is recommended that you call in an attic removal professional in your area to do the job for you. When it comes to safe attic insulation removal and cleaning, preparation is key. To be honest, most homeowners go for years without setting foot in their attics, and with time, dirt, dust and sometimes mould gets collected in the boxes, the attic floor, and even in your belongings. A cluttered and dirty attic, gets you poor efficiency, damaged insulation, rodent infestation, and mould. Therefore, it is important that you inspect and clean out your attic before you add or install new insulation.
- Remove your belongings. Before you begin cleaning and preparation for your new attic insulation, ensure all your belongings are removed. In case the items are too big to get out without a fuss, you could stack them in one corner.
- Dust your attic. Over the years, dust quickly gets collected inside your attic. You can use a synthetic duster to remove dust and dirt on the surface of your attic. Ensure that you have covered all walls, columns, wooden beams, windows, and frames.
- Sweep and vacuum.in case you are dealing with a lot of dust a vacuum will be more effective, a broom will just push dirt. Using a vacuum with high efficiency will save a lot of effort getting dust particles, dead insects, and debris out in a short time.
- Inspect your insulation. Insulation is often overlooked; therefore, you need to ensure it is at the same level as the floor joist in your attic. In case your insulation is below your floor joists, its important more insulation is added. If you cannot see the joists, your insulation is above them, and there is no need of adding more. If you notice your insulation has water, fire or rodent damage, its best to remove it entirely.
- Check for mould. It’s easy to spot mould, it is normally gray or black. Mould spreads quickly. An indicator of mould in your attic is a musty smell or accumulated moisture. Cleaning this out is usually hectic, and worse if you have allergies or asthma. It’s advisable to seek the help of a professional cleaning service when removing mould from your attic.
How to remove blown-in insulation from your attic
Removing blown-insulation requires that you use a high powered, large capacity shop vacuum. In case you don’t have a vacuum, you can call in a professional insulation service to do the job for you. Some home improvement stores often rent vacuums that can be used for this exercise as well.
Since blown-in insulation is loose, it often tends to be messy and hard to maintain. When blowing, small airborne particles from the blown-in insulation can sometimes cause respiratory problems in humans leading to dermatitis. Ensure that you also have the right protective clothing, a respirator, goggles, and gloves. It’s also important to have control over the particles that often escape through the air. Tape off areas in your home with large rolls of plastic sheeting.
Attic spaces are often tight and small; therefore, you may need to implement creative ways to maneuver around. In case the attic isn’t large enough for you, tie a rope to the vacuum and gradually pull it as it sucks the insulation. Ensure you have enough distance from the insulation, you could also try reaching to the corners and crevices. Observe extreme caution when moving around unfinished attic space.
When the vacuum is finally full, empty the container into a trash bag and ensure that it is sealed. It’s important that the insulation is not loose and floating around your living spaces. Removing blown-in insulation is a hectic and somewhat health hazardous task, it’s advisable that you consult an insulation professional before you embark on this project.
How to remove old insulation from the attic
Most attics have blown-in insulation. This is due to its affordability and easy to fix nature. However, there comes a time insulation needs to be removed. Upgrading or replacing your insulation is common when they get damaged, mouldy or old. Removing insulation is a dirty job, but can be a necessary one.
Here are a couple of steps you could use:
- Consider your options. If you are removing insulation that has been damaged by mould or water, it is a job best suited for a professional. You will need a high-powered shop vacuum. Blown-in insulation can be messy, and in the worst cases, causes respiratory problems.
- Prepare your work area. When removing insulation from your attic, you will need to find a way to get your vacuum to the attic. It is also important that you stay out of the attic or give yourself some space from the insulation. Ensure you are wearing protective gear throughout the process. Goggles and a mask are preferable.
- Vacuum your attic. This process takes time depending on the size of your attic. Ensure you reach out to all corners of the attic. You might also need to keep a close eye on the vacuum and empty it out before it gets full.
- Disposing insulation. Recycling centers in most cases will accept your vacuumed insulation. Since it’s made of cellulose, it can be recycled. Otherwise, empty them into a large heavy-duty plastic bag and ensure it is sealed.
However, the best option is to give us a call since we can help you with removing and replacing your damaged attic insulation: 647-931-6385