Remove Crawlspace Insulation
Insulating your crawl space will help you save energy which in turn will help in the global warming situation. Crawlspace insulation is done to air seal and control the moisture surrounding your home. It helps to save on energy costs as well as it builds a whole different level of comfort for your home.
You will have to replace the crawlspace insulation after a few years just for a good maintenance. Actually, the crawlspace is a tiny space between your home and the ground. This is the place for you to access the plumbing, electrical systems and heating parts that will be in need of a repair job when needed. If you have an attic, a crawlspace is a common addition or in your walls to keep the cold air out and the heat in. After a few years or so, the crawlspace will begin to wear off and will need to be changed. You can do the replacement yourself easily with same tools needed. Here are the steps on how to change your crawlspace.
You will need:
- New insulation
- Protective mask and eye ware
- Long gloves
- Long sleeve shirt
- Hammer
- Plastic bags
Steps:
- First thing that you have to do is to wear protective clothing such as a long sleeve shirt, long gloves, a protective mask and an eyewear. These will be your protection shield before you crawl under to remove the crawlspace insulation. Although, the insulation is made from tiny fiberglass materials that can cause irritation to the skin, it is non-toxic. But, you have to be protected to make sure there will be no way the insulation can cause skin problem to you after the removing process.
- Then, set yourself up in one corner and begin working your way towards the other end before starting to tear out the insulation. Remove the insulation in one piece by prying off the staples carefully. You don\’t want to cause a large mess of pink fiberglass as many people tend to start ripping it out in pieces so work carefully and slowly to take down all the insulation from the floor joists.
- Next, you can dispose the crawlspace in two ways. First, you can roll it back up into batts and dispose it. You can check with the town codes to determine the best way to get rid of the old insulation.
- You will also need to bag it to dispose it. The other way is when you are still under the crawlspace, spread out a plastic bag and place the insulation into the bag as you take it down. It will help you avoid any mess and minimize the contact with the crawlspace insulation.
- When the crawlspace insulation has been taken off completely, use an air hose and blow off any residue of the insulation carefully.
- While using the air hose, try to keep it towards the entrance of the crawlspace and away from you as for better control of the flow and to maximize the cleaning up process.
- Use some disinfect to wipe down the water pipes, joists, air ducts and other places under your home. The disinfection process will help to remove the odors and germs from the last insulation.
Additional Reading:
http://www.doityourself.com/stry/how-to-remove-crawlspace-insulation
Image Credit:
http://www.flickr.com/photos/afresh1/4429674270/
