Attic Insulation Removal and Disposal Processes

Moisture can lead to mold and mildew within your attic. Insulation that has gotten wet should be removed, prior to having a contractor install new materials. An attic insulation removal service will send a contractor to inspect the attic, remove the insulation, and dispose of it.

Affected Insulation

Damaged insulation will not provide an adequate thermal envelope. Old building materials that have weakened over time could crack or come loose. This could allow moisture to filter into an attic or another insulated area. When insulation gets wet it becomes a breeding ground for mold and mildew. Upon inspecting insulation that has been subjected to moisture, a contractor will take measures to dispose of the affected materials.

Since insulation is often secured behind drywall or ceiling panels, a contractor will need to remove any building materials that are covering insulation. Any variety of insulation should be inspected. Fiberglass sheets, spray foams, and cellulose products will be checked during a preliminary assessment of an attic.

The Removal of Insulation

An insulation contractor may use plastic sheeting to create barriers within the attic. Plastic sheeting may be draped along the flooring. It may also be used to form a seal along the doorway that leads to the attic. The use of plastic sheeting will prevent insulation particles from spreading to other parts of your home. Because insulation can irritate the respiratory system, a contractor and their crew will likely wear protective gear while they conduct a removal process.

Wet insulation may crumble as it is removed from a wall. The small particles could come into contact with skin or enter a person's respiratory system. Protective clothing and facial masks will prevent exposure to insulation. Tools will be used to dislodge insulation, and a vacuum unit may be used to collect small fragments of insulation. The insulation removal process is conducted in stages.

Once all of the insulation has been collected, a contractor will use a bag to contain large pieces of insulation that were not collected with a vacuum unit. Some insulation products can be recycled. A contractor will assess the insulation that is present to determine if the insulation can be repurposed.

If the insulation materials can be reused, a contractor will transport the insulation to a facility that will recycle the materials. Any unsalvageable insulation products will be disposed of. The cavities within the walls and ceiling will be cleaned and dried; this process will prepare the areas for the application of new insulation products.


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