How to Remove Attic Insulation
Attic insulation sometimes needs to be removed, and hiring a contractor can be expensive. Insulation, especially in the attic, is prone to soaking from leaks, squirrel infestations and other kinds of contamination. Removing insulation is not difficult, but you must take care while doing so to protect your home. With knowledge of the types of insulation and how to remove it, you can accomplish this task yourself in a day. Does this Spark an idea?
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Instructions
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Test the insulation for asbestos. There are home test kits available in hardware stores. If the insulation tests positive for asbestos call a professional to remove it immediately. Exposure to asbestos can cause lung and other health problems. Otherwise, you can continue with the removal yourself.
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Lay a tarp down on the ground, protecting your home from any insulation residue and animal carcasses or dung you may find. This will make clean-up easier as well.
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Figure out what kind of insulation is in your attic walls. There are two types: blown-in insulation and blanket insulation. For blown in insulation, rent a high efficiency particulate air (HEPA) vacuum to vacuum it out directly from the wall cavity. Blanket insulation can simply be removed and bagged in heavy-duty trash bags.
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Vacuum the floor and walls of any remaining insulation or animal particulates with the HEPA vacuum. Roll the tarp, folding it in on itself, and throw it away.
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Tips & Warnings
Wear a long sleeve shirt, jeans, gloves and a respiratory mask while dealing with the insulation.
