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It is usually possible to install insulation yourself, but it’s often better to hire an insulation professional. An experienced insulation pro can determine which type of insulation is best for your space and the R-value get the most value and comfort in your home. Certain types of insulation can cause skin, eye, and lung irritation, and a professional will have the equipment necessary to keep themselves safe and limit the effect on your indoor air quality after the installation. Certain types of insulation—like blown-in and loose-fill insulation—demand a professional for proper functionality and safe installation.

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.

It’s best not to install a radiant barrier directly under insulation because it requires an air gap on at least one side to work properly. Instead, you should install the radiant barrier over your existing insulation to create an air space to reflect the radiant heat.

The most affordable way to insulate a garage involves choosing cost-effective materials like fiberglass, which comes in batts or rolls and is relatively easy to install. You can often install this type of insulation without needing to add drywall, which helps reduce costs. While a DIY approach might seem cheapest, hiring a professional installer can be highly cost-effective. Experts can accurately determine your garage's specific insulation needs and ensure the best results for your investment, often using batt insulation for the bulk of the project.