How much does it cost to remove old insulation from an attic and install new?

The cost to remove old insulation from an attic and install new insulation is significantly higher than just adding new on top, because removal is labor-intensive and requires special equipment. For a typical 1,000 square foot attic, removal alone costs $1.50 to $3.50 per square foot, or $1,500 to $3,500, depending on type and condition. If the old insulation is contaminated with rodent droppings, mold, or water damage, costs rise to $3.50 to $5.00 per square foot due to hazmat precautions, protective equipment, and disposal fees. For a 2,000 square foot attic, removal typically runs $3,000 to $7,000. After removal, you still need to install new insulation. Adding new blown-in cellulose or fiberglass to reach R38 to R60 costs $1.50 to $3.00 per square foot professionally installed, so $1,500 to $3,000 for 1,000 square feet and $3,000 to $6,000 for 2,000 square feet. Therefore, the total project cost for removal plus new installation for 1,000 square feet is generally $3,000 to $6,500, and for 2,000 square feet $6,000 to $13,000. If the old insulation is asbestos-containing vermiculite, removal must be done by a licensed abatement contractor and can cost $8 to $15 per square foot. If old insulation is dry and clean, most energy auditors recommend leaving it and blowing new insulation over it to save money.