Kelly writes from Cleveland, Ohio: "I have a 1952 Ranch with a full attic that is about 5' in the center and slopes down in the front and back of the house. I have a middle aisle way that is boarded, but the sides, towards the slopes, are all easily accessible and have, I think, the original insulation. It is so thin and broken down at this point, it can't be providing any good benefits. My question is, do I "have" to remove this old insulation (currently about 2" thick) before I can install new insulation? If yes, what is the safest way to do this? Or should I hire a professional for the removal part of the job?"

Answer: It is not necessary to remove the existing insulation. When adding insulation, we recommend that it be unfaced.