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It's Extremely Old
Has your home had the same insulation since it was first built, even before you moved in? If so, it's likely far past time to get it replaced. Insulation may sound like it has a long lifespan, with an average of 80 years, but it could easily have passed that mark if it's already been there for a long time before you moved in. It wears down over time and degrades, something that you can test for yourself if you wear proper safety gear. With gloves on, if you apply pressure slightly to the insulation and it crumbles, it definitely is time to get it taken out. -
It's Sustained Water Damage
It's unfortunately very easy for even a little moisture to get into your attic, be it from a leak in the roof, or a window that isn't sealed as properly as it should. Insulation will absorb this moisture very easily and create the perfect place for mold to grow and spread while you may have no clue it is. Not only will it render the insulation useless, but it will eat away at the rest of the area and even your belongings as well. Spores are also a health risk if inhaled, so having professionals safely remove it is necessary. -
You Have a Pest Problem
If you know rodents are or have been in the area, it's fairly likely that your insulation will need to be taken out afterward. To rodents in particular, it's the perfect material to use for nesting purposes, and they'll tear it apart to use it. This severely decreases its functionality, and on top of that they infect it with diseases from their waste to make it a health risk to be around. Professionals will be able to safely dispose of it, however, and take care of the problem. -
You Want An Upgrade
Just because it came with the house doesn't mean the insulation in place is the perfect amount of R-Value to keep your home as energy efficient as possible, or is the best type available. You may decide you want to improve upon this and install spray foam or otherwise instead.