When it comes to the insulation industry, there are a few questions that come up regularly. One of these questions is whether or not it is possible to add new mechanical insulation over old insulation. The answer is complicated and will depend on the age and condition of the existing insulation, as well as the type of new insulation being added.
It is important to note that adding new insulation over old can be done, but it is not always the best option. The new insulation may not be able to perform as well as it would if it were applied directly to the surface of the equipment. This is usually due to the fact that the old insulation may have degraded or become compressed over time, reducing its effectiveness. Here are some important factors to consider when determining whether or not you can simply add new insulation over old:
What type of old insulation is in place?
It is important to consider the type of existing insulation, and what condition it’s in. If the existing insulation is in relatively good condition, then it may be possible to add a new layer of insulation on top of it. However, if the existing insulation is old, degraded, wet, or mouldy, it is likely that the new insulation will not perform as well as it would if it were applied directly to the equipment. If the quality of your old insulation isn’t adequate, it is usually recommended that the old insulation be removed before applying a new layer.
What type of insulation is being added?
If the new insulation is of a different type than the existing insulation, then it is likely that the two layers will not be compatible. For example, if the existing insulation is fibreglass and the new insulation is foam, then it is unlikely that the two layers will work together efficiently. In this case, it is generally recommended that the old insulation be removed before applying the new insulation.
When should old insulation be removed first?
Old insulation should definitely be removed before adding a new type of insulation if the existing insulation is wet, damaged, or contaminated. In addition, if the insulation is made of an outdated material, or if the R-value (resistance to heat flow) is too low, it should be removed before adding a new type of insulation.
In summary, it is possible to add new mechanical insulation over old, but it is not always the best option in the long run. The age and condition of the existing insulation, as well as the type of new insulation being added, should all be taken into consideration before making a decision.
In any case, determining the best solution when installing new insulation is a complex task that should only be done by experienced professionals.
If you’re looking for a reliable and knowledgeable insulation company, look no further than Westcal Insulation. We take pride in our attention to detail and commitment to customer satisfaction, and we guarantee you’ll be satisfied with the results of our work. Contact us today to learn more about our insulation services!
