Attic Insulation Removal

Attic insulation removal would seem to be a very straight forward thing to do in a home. You simply go up into the attic and remove the insulation. You may get a little dirty and you may want to take a good shower after you are done. Some people might even wear a dust mask just to make it a little more comfortable. Most people would not even think that there could be a silent killer lurking inside the rafters of their home. They wouldn't even believe that the simple act of attic insulation removal could cause lung diseases and cancers. This ignorance of proper information has caused a lot of pain and sickness that could have been avoided if people were educated about the dangers of attic insulation removal.

Types of Attic Insulation

Before the removal of any material in a home, the product should be tested for any number of harmful substances. Even in a brand new home or attic addition, there could be dangerous chemicals used in the manufacturing process. This is truer in the attic of a house than anywhere else. Most attics contain some form of insulation to reduce heat loss. This insulation could be any number of materials, and it is very important to know exactly what comprises the materials in your home.

The best way to know is to have a professional inspector look at the space and take samples. These samples will be analyzed at a laboratory and the exact composition will be brought back to you in a report. Many attic remodel contractors will have inspectors who can help with this process. To find a qualified local contractor just fill in the simple and fee online quote form and you can easily get the job done right.

Many newer homes have fiberglass used as an insulator in the attics, walls and floors of the house. Most people can recognize fiberglass just by looking at it, but if you are unsure you can look at photos online, or check with a professional in your area. Although fiberglass is not a carcinogen and contact with it is most likely to cause simple itching and irritation, it is still important to protect yourself from exposure.

Protect Yourself while Removing Insulation

For attic insulation removal involving this type, you should wear long sleeves and pants with gloves, eye protection and a dust mask. Be sure to wash thoroughly after the job is done and clean up properly. When you encounter fiberglass that usually means the cost of removal will be lower, but make sure the glass is not installed on top of an older material. Also look for any mold growth that might be on the paper backing of the rolls.

The most problematic attic insulation removal involves asbestos. This material is a know carcinogen and also causes a number of other diseases. Asbestos removal is a very complicated process that should only be done by trained and licensed personnel. Material that contains asbestos is usually very friable and can easily be released into the air. In an attic you can look for any blown in or sprayed on materials as well as any vermiculite. Although vermiculite is not a danger, it is commonly contaminated with asbestos and therefore must be treated as such. Whatever plans you have for a bonus room in the attic may be put off track if you have to have any asbestos removal done. The best way to check for this material is to find a professional in your area to do it for you.

Removal Considerations

Attic insulation removal needs to be done in a way that will not harm any people working or living in the home. Improper removal can cause problems for years to come if the home itself becomes contaminated. It is very important to understand exactly what you are working with before you start the project. A contractor can give you ideas about exactly what the process will entail and what you can expect along the way. Attic insulation removal is something that is often necessary to make the home a safer and healthier environment. There are so many different kinds of insulation that it is best to check with someone who knows in order to be sure of what is in your home.

Attic insulation removal would seem to be something that almost anyone could complete with a little do it yourself project. This is not the case with a lot of homes, and many health problems can be caused by contact with harmful materials during attic insulation removal. To ensure the health and well being of homeowners and workers, be sure to trust only the highest quality work and get a company who will do the job right the first time.