Many Canberra homeowners ask whether old insulation needs to be removed before new insulation can be installed. The answer depends on the condition of the existing insulation.

If the current insulation is dry, clean and still reasonably intact, new insulation can often be installed over the top to improve the home’s thermal performance and energy efficiency.

However, insulation removal is usually recommended if the existing material is:

• Damaged by moisture or roof leaks
• Contaminated by pests or rodents
• Mouldy, dusty or deteriorated
• Poorly installed or compressed.

In these cases, removing the old insulation allows for a cleaner, safer and more effective installation.

Many older Canberra homes also have insulation that no longer meets modern standards. Upgrading to modern R5, R6 or R7 ceiling insulation can help improve:

• Winter warmth
• Summer comfort
• Energy efficiency
• Heating and cooling costs.

Before any ceiling insulation installation, electrical safety requirements should also be checked – particularly in older ACT homes.

At House Insulation Canberra, we provide free insulation assessments and can advise whether your existing insulation should be removed, topped up or replaced.