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Monolithic slabs don’t require insulation, but many homeowners choose to have their contractors install insulation under the slab during construction. This can help improve home efficiency even more and keep indoor temperatures more stable. Slab foundations are more energy-efficient than uninsulated crawl spaces and basements, and insulated slab foundations are more energy-efficient than insulated crawl spaces and basements.

Mineral wool has an excellent life expectancy of up to 50 years, provided it's kept dry and free of pests. Compared to fiberglass, with a life span of 20 to 30 years, mineral wool stacks up well for long-term cost savings. Sheep wool maintains a similar life span to fiberglass, while estimates for hemp wool insulation life expectancies are all over the board, ranging anywhere from 20 to 100 years.

You do not always need to remove old insulation before adding new. If the existing insulation is in good condition—not wet, physically damaged, moldy, or infested with pests—you can add new insulation directly on top of it for a compounding effect. You can also mix different types, such as adding blown-in insulation around existing fiberglass batts.

However, removal is recommended if the old insulation is compromised by water damage or pests. You should also remove it if you plan to install a different type of insulation, like switching from roll or batt insulation to spray foam. If the existing insulation is very old or damaged, you will likely get more benefit from removing it and starting fresh.

Professionals can install a radiant barrier in a day or two, but DIY installation will take several days. The time it takes to install a radiant barrier depends largely on the size of the space and the installation method. Larger homes can take a pro two to three days to finish the job. It’s also quicker to lay foil over existing insulation.