If I Remove My Old Insulation Myself, How Do I Get Rid of It?

September 11, 2019

Over time, insulation begins to naturally degrade. This is a totally normal part of the aging process—as insulation gets older, it starts to lose its effectiveness. If you’re noticing that your energy bills are getting higher, or if you’re feeling more drafts blowing through your living space in the wintertime, there’s a strong chance that you’ll need to replace your home’s insulation in the very near future.

Most homes, particularly older homes, have some form of fiberglass insulation installed. Fiberglass insulation usually takes the forms of blankets, batts or blown-in filler. As fiberglass degrades, it can become dust-like and relatively hard to remove. Because of this, it’s advisable to contact a professional specializing in fiberglass insulation in Northern California to remove your home’s or business’ old insulation materials. Removing your insulation on your own can be messy, time-consuming and dangerous.

If you do decide to remove your own insulation, however, there are a few things that you should be aware of. Once you’ve taken the insulation out of your home or commercial space, you’ll have to find a way to safely and legally dispose of it. Here are just a few things to keep in mind when removing and disposing of fiberglass insulation in Northern California:

  • Analyze your situation: The first thing you’ll need to do is analyze the insulation in your home, and make sure that it’s exclusively made from fiberglass. In older homes, there may also be other types of insulation that were mixed with the fiberglass. This could complicate the removal and disposal processes.
  • Exercise safety: Whenever handling insulation, you should plan for the worst-case scenario. Fiberglass often degrades into a dust-like substance that can be inhaled or stick to your skin. Wear clothes that cover your body, eye goggles and a face mask to stay safe while handling insulation.
  • Bag it up: To remove your insulation, bag it up in large plastic garbage bags, and tie them tightly shut at the neck, rather than with the drawstring. This will prevent any fiberglass dust from escaping during transportation. Be careful not to rupture the bags when handling them.
  • Find the best disposal option: Because fiberglass is a hazardous substance, you can’t just throw it away in your dumpster. You’ll have to call your local waste authority to learn about the best way to dispose of fiberglass in your area. You might have to pay a small fee at the dump site. Alternatively, some jurisdictions offer fiberglass recycling, also for a small fee.

Ace Insulation Inc. is the premier contractor specializing in the installation and removal of fiberglass insulation in Northern California. Whether you’re building a new home or are working on renovating your existing space, you can count on us to provide you with comprehensive insulation services and expertise. If you’re looking for a trusted partner to assist you with improving the insulation in your living space or place of business, reach out to one of our friendly representatives today. We look forward to helping you soon!

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