I'm planning to get quotes for new insulation in my attic, and I need some guidance. The current insulation is really old, gray, and uneven because it's been pushed around over the years. I have a few questions I need help with:
- Typically, is there insulation under the center walkway boards in a house this old? Should contractors remove these boards to insulate underneath, or is it better to leave it alone if insulation is already there? I plan to stay in this house for another 5-10 years.
- What should I ask contractors to ensure their bids are consistent and comparable?
- How can I protect myself in terms of potential damage to the ceiling during the insulation process?
- Finally, what type of insulation offers the best cost efficiency, given that I'm not aiming for longevity but would like to save on energy costs?
3 Answers
For the best results at a low cost, you could consider DIYing a bit. You can either lay down unfaced batt insulation or rent a machine to blow in insulation yourself. If you're hiring, ask for an R30 layer, as that can significantly cut down on energy usage. If you're curious about the insulation under the boards, you’ll need to lift a few up and check, but you might also just lay insulation over them if you don’t use that area for storage.
I suggest getting at least three bids. I just insulated my own 140-year-old house, and I went with blown-in cellulose for my attic—cost me around $2900, which is a great deal. Some quotes I received were almost $7000, so definitely shop around! Given that business is a bit slow, contractors should be more willing to negotiate. Just be aware they might want to remove the old insulation, which can add to the cost.
Appreciate the insight! I’m starting with around five contractors, and I think I can get some rebates from Energy Trust, which will really help.
Before you start, definitely watch some insulation videos on YouTube to get a feel for the job. Most contractors will remove the old insulation first, sanitize the area, and then lay down new stuff, but make sure you ask how they handle potential damage to your ceiling during the process. It's a good idea to get that specified in your contract as well.
Thanks for the tip! Making sure damage is covered in the contract sounds like a smart move.
Thanks for the suggestion! I'm actually looking to hire someone—I'm not in great shape for DIY projects.