Signs your insulation should come out
- Rodent, raccoon or bird droppings and nesting
- Water stains, clumping or a musty smell from the hatch
- Black or grey staining on the roof sheathing above
- Insulation crushed flat by storage or foot traffic
- Smoke or fire damage
- The attic was just treated for mold
How removal works
- Inspect and photograph. You see exactly why removal is recommended, or why it isn't.
- Seal the house. Hatch area sealed with plastic, floors protected.
- Vacuum out. A high-power insulation vacuum pulls material into sealed bags outside.
- Clean deck. Air sealing and baffles go in while the attic floor is open, which is the best time to do them.
- Re-insulate. Fresh insulation blown to R-50 with depth rulers photographed.
After mold remediation
Attics cleaned by a mold remediation company almost always need new insulation. We work with Promold on exactly these jobs: they remediate, we re-insulate and fix the ventilation that caused the problem. Mold in the attic.
Removal FAQ
When does attic insulation need to be removed?
When it is wet, mouldy, contaminated by rodents, raccoons or birds, smoke- or fire-damaged, heavily compressed, or when you are replacing it after mold remediation. Dry, clean insulation can usually stay and be topped up.
How much does attic insulation removal cost in Toronto?
$1 to $2 per sq ft on top of the new insulation, depending on depth, material and access.
What about vermiculite?
Vermiculite (grey-brown pebbly granules) can contain asbestos. We do not disturb it. If we find it, we stop and recommend testing and a licensed abatement contractor first.
Where does the old insulation go?
It is vacuumed directly into sealed bags through a hose run from the attic to outside, then disposed of properly. It does not travel through your living space.