Removing Insulation in a Vaulted Ceiling

Insulation Panels or Blankets

• 1

  Gain access to the insulation if possible. Go to the attic if the insulation is exposed there. Remove ceiling panels from the same room if applicable.

• 2

  Place a plastic tarp over the floor in the room. Place a ladder underneath a corner of the vaulted ceiling.

• 3

  Remove the drywall that covers the insulation if this is your only access point. Place a thin pry bar behind the drywall and pull one piece of drywall at a time toward you slowly. Hit the back of the drywall lightly with a hammer to loosen up drywall panels that are difficult to remove.

• 4

  Climb up on the ladder. Remove a small portion of the insulation and test it with an asbestos home test kit. If the test is positive for asbestos, contact an asbestos removal service.

• 5

  Remove any staples or nails that hold the insulation in place with a staple remover or hammer if the insulation does not contain asbestos.

• 6

  Roll up the insulation one section at a time. Place each roll inside a strong garbage bag. Continue to roll up each panel or blanket until all of the insulation has been removed.

Blown-In Insulation

• 7

  Cover the floor with a plastic tarp. Place a ladder under the center of the vaulted ceiling.

• 8

  Cut a 6-inch round hole in the ceiling with a reciprocating saw. Test the insulation for asbestos with a home test kit. Contact an asbestos removal service if it tests positive for asbestos or continue with the project if it tests negative.

• 9

  Rent a high efficiency particulate air (HEPA) vacuum from a local hardware store. Place the hose from the vacuum through the hole that you made in the ceiling.

• 10

  Plug in the vacuum then start it up, according to the manufacturer's instructions. The vacuum should suck up all of the blown-in insulation and store it inside an attached bag. Remove the vacuum and tarp from the room once the insulation has been removed.