When covering is fine
Dry batts in fair shape can stay. We blow new insulation right over them. This is the most common answer and the cheapest one. The old layer still insulates some. The new layer does the rest.
When removal is right
Wet or stained insulation comes out. Pest waste comes out. Moldy material comes out. Flat, paper-thin batts doing nothing come out. Covering damage just hides it.
The vermiculite rule
If we find vermiculite, the small-pebble insulation in some older homes, we stop. Old vermiculite can hold asbestos. It gets tested before anyone touches it. Safety first, no exceptions.
What removal unlocks
A bare attic floor is an opportunity. We seal every air leak with full access. We spot hidden problems: old stains, chewed wires, cracked boots. Fixing these now is cheap. Under new insulation it is not.
The cost question
Removal adds cost to the job. No way around it. But removing ten inches of dead insulation to gain a sealed, fresh attic is worth it when the old stuff is truly done. When it is not, we say so and save you the money.
How we decide together
The free inspection settles it. We photo the old insulation. We show you its state. We give you both prices: cover or remove. You pick with real facts.
Call (301) 679-9193 for a free attic inspection.