Should I Remove Old Basement Insulation?

Unheated Basements

• Old insulation often conceals air leaks that allow cold air to enter the living areas of your home. Many homes insulate the basement using fiberglass batts that do not form an effective air barrier. The places in your basement where pipes, HVAC ducts and dryer vents penetrate your floor are common trouble spots concealed behind old insulation. You can plug these gaps with spray foam insulation and increase the efficiency of your home.

Heated Basements

• Heated basements are insulated along the inside or outside of your basement walls. External insulation is subject to damage from moisture and termites. If this insulation is damaged you have to excavate the area around your foundation and replace it. Interior wall insulation is often damaged when leaking foundation walls introduce moisture into your insulation. Make sure you fix the source of the moisture leaking into your basement before you replace your existing insulation. This protects the longevity and efficiency of the insulation.

Moisture Problems

• Moisture damage is a common source of damage in old basement insulation. In finished basements this damage usually results from foundation damage or improper drainage around the home. After a heavy rain, inspect your walls for cracks, damp spots or mold growth that can indicate the presence of moisture. Fill any cracks or gaps in the wall and apply a concrete sealer to help prevent water from infiltrating your home.

Mold

• Insulation infected with mold is less efficient and can lead to serious health problems. Mold infected insulation requires careful disposal using protective equipment. Disturbing moldy insulation disperses mold spores and insulation particles into the air. Use protective goggles, a face mask and gloves while handling moldy insulation to protect yourself from these airborne contaminants. Dispose of all moldy insulation in doubled trash bags sealed with tape to ensure it is properly contained.

Considerations

• Newer forms of insulation such as spray foam and rigid foam board can provide improved insulating qualities compared to traditional fiberglass batt insulation. However, these types of insulation are most effective when they are professionally installed and they are typically more expensive than fiberglass batt with an equivalent rating. If your old insulation has mold or moisture damage you will need to fix the underlying problems that allowed moisture into your basement before you can replace your old insulation.