Attic insulation in Reno NV - an upstairs that feels like the rest of the house

Attic insulation in Reno usually costs about $1,500 to $4,900 per job. Where yours lands depends on the attic's size, how much is up there now, how much sealing it needs and whether anything has to come out first. I'll give you your own number in a written estimate after I've looked, and the work is backed by our satisfaction guarantee.

Yes, the new layer often goes right on top, and it doesn't have to match the old type. Loose fill can go over fiberglass batts, and unfaced batts, the kind with no paper or foil backing, can go over loose fill. The exception is old insulation that's been soaked or is full of droppings, which should come out first so the problem doesn't stay under the new layer.

Inspect the roof and attic first, fix any leaks, remove any old knob and tube wiring that's still live and deal with any hazardous material before new insulation goes in. Bath fans that blow into the attic need to vent outside, and insulation stays clear of recessed can lights unless they're rated IC, for insulated ceiling. If you have gas appliances, the usual guidance is to consider having a Home Performance Contractor test that they draft properly before and after sealing, since sealing can sometimes send their gases back into the house.

Vermiculite looks like lightweight, pea-size, flaky gray bits poured between the joists, not fluffy fiber or batts. If you think you have it, leave it in place until an approved lab tests it and finds no asbestos, and your local health department can name a lab. If I spot something that looks like it, I'll tell you, and that part of the job waits for the result.

You may, since the City of Reno says most construction and building projects require a building permit. Nevada sets a statewide energy code and local governments can adopt stricter rules, so before work starts we check which city or county office covers your address, and when the job needs a permit we take care of applying for it. We're fully licensed and insured.

Mostly it puts more attention on the eaves, because Washoe County's wildfire code guide notes that eave vents give embers a chance to light the soffit material or get into the attic. Those same vents keep the attic breathing, and blown insulation needs enough height at the eave to fit the full amount with an air gap above it, so I look closely at that space when I'm up there. We see that setup on houses across Reno, Sparks and the cities around them, and I'll tell you what I find at yours.