Attic Insulation Case Studies: New Cellulose Insulation in Ann Arbor, MI
Challenge
The homeowner explained that her home still has Knob and tube electrical wiring running throughout the attic and that she was having electricians coming over to remove it and install modern wiring cable but that they could not perform the work unless the insulation was completely removed. The only symptom of the problem was that the insulation was in the way for the electricians being able to perform their work and it needed to be removed. The problem was caused by the original insulation that was installed, covered all of the wires and posed an issue with being able to run the new electrical wire through the attic ceiling to the desired locations. The homeowner chose to have the problem fixed because she needed to have it updated per residential code and could not have the problem fixed without having another company remove the insulation before the electricians could preform their scope of work. The homeowners biggest concern with the problem was that her home was not within code and it posted a fire hazard without having modern electrical wires running throughout the home.
Solution
The homeowner chose our company because we were able to coordinate the timing of having the insulation removed right before the electricians were to remove the old knob and tube wiring. We were also able to upgrade the insulation to a better energy efficient standard than what was installed previously that would help keep her heating and cooling appliances running longer and more efficiently. Our solution was to vacuum out the old insulation, air seal all of the penetrations in the in the attic floor (Top plates, Bond plates, Wire and Pipe penetrations etc.) cover the recessed lighting with can light covers, encapsulate the ducts in the attic with spray foam insulation and then install cellulose insulation to an R60 value. Some of the challenges that we faced during the installment process were: The insulation in the attic was vey old and dirty and was filled with all kinds of roofing debris making it very difficult to get through the vacuum hoses and constantly causing clogs. Another challenge was the size of the access hole into the attic. The access was only 13" wide by 22" long making it difficult entering and exiting the attic along with bringing supplies through the access hole. We used TiteShell Recessed Light Fixture covers, Tight 'N' True Foam Duct Encapsulation Polyurethane Spray Foam, ZypFoam, and TruSoft Cellulose. The homeowner was able to get the electrical system updated and she now has an Energy Star rated home saving wear and tear on her heating and cooling appliances.
