When it comes to insulation, the more the better. Installing all the insulation you can afford is a wise decision that will pay off in the long term. If you have attic space, adding an extra layer of insulation is a great way to maximize your energy efficiency. The coating of the insulation blocks acts as a vapor barrier, which prevents moisture vapor from penetrating the insulation. If you install coated insulation on top of existing blown material, you're essentially placing the vapor barrier in between the two layers.
Any moisture vapor that crosses the roof will also pass through the material that has been absorbed and then impact the surface of the plate, where it will be trapped. This can lead to damage to both the insulation and the elements of the structure, as well as mold formation. If you're looking to convert standard doors into something else, it's best to consult a structural engineer as part of your planning process. To save money, you can keep the opening width the same and create an opening for the new door. Rough door openings are usually 2 inches wider and higher than the door itself.
So, if you currently have an opening in the foundation wall that is 3 feet wide, it should accommodate a door and a frame that is 2 feet 10 inches wide. Even if the opening is a bit rough or undersized, you should be able to install a 2 foot 8 inch door without any problem, without having to modify the width of the opening. All you'll have to do is cut from the bottom of the opening on each side to reach a total height of 6 feet 10 inches (2 inches more than a normal height of a 6 foot 8 inch door), remove the blocks between the cuts, and you'll have an opening that allows you to place a new, standard door. A concrete cutting company can help you cut and remove blocks. When it comes to installing hardwood floors over vinyl tile, it's best to consult with a flooring contractor. They can assess whether it's necessary to remove the vinyl tile before placing the hardwoods.
If there is asbestos present, it's best to leave it well enough alone and place the hardwoods on top of the tiles. If both contractors agree that it is necessary to lift the floor, then it's important to analyze samples of both layers of flooring for asbestos. If there is no asbestos present, one or both layers can be easily removed. However, if asbestos is present, then it's best to contact your local Department of Environmental Quality (DEQ) for guidelines on how to safely remove and dispose of the material. When it comes to adding new insulation, there are several factors that need to be taken into consideration. If your old insulation is damp or water damaged, then it needs to be removed and replaced.
However, if your current insulation has always been dry, then you can add new insulation on top of it. As an expert in home insulation and energy efficiency, I recommend adding an extra layer of coated insulation in your attic space if possible. This will help keep your home warm in winter and cool in summer while also preventing moisture vapor from penetrating your insulation and causing damage or mold formation. When converting standard doors into something else or installing hardwood floors over vinyl tile, make sure to consult with structural engineers and flooring contractors respectively for advice on how best to proceed. If asbestos is present in either layer of flooring, contact your local DEQ for guidelines on how to safely remove and dispose of it. Finally, when adding new insulation make sure that any existing insulation is dry before adding more on top.
