Can Old Insulation Be Recycled?

When it’s time to upgrade or remove insulation from your home, one important question often comes up: Can old insulation be recycled? With growing interest in sustainable home improvements, more homeowners are exploring eco-friendly options when replacing outdated or damaged insulation. The good news is—yes, some insulation can be recycled, depending on the type and condition.

At Koala Insulation of Upper Cumberland, we believe in energy efficiency and environmental responsibility. In this blog, we’ll break down which insulation materials can be recycled, how the process works, and what options are available to homeowners looking to make greener decisions when improving their home’s comfort and performance.

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Why Consider Recycling Insulation?

Old insulation that’s damaged, deteriorating, or underperforming needs to be removed before new material can be installed. Traditionally, this old insulation ends up in a landfill. But when possible, recycling insulation:

• Reduces construction waste
• Decreases your environmental footprint
• Supports sustainability in home renovations
• Complies with green building practices

Before tossing it into the dumpster, let’s look at what types of insulation are recyclable—and how to handle them properly.

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Common Types of Insulation and Their Recycling Potential

1. Fiberglass Insulation

Can it be recycled?
Yes, in some cases.

Fiberglass insulation, made from fine glass fibers, is one of the most widely used materials in residential homes. It’s technically recyclable and is often repurposed into new insulation products or other fiberglass items.

Recycling tips:

• Must be clean and dry—contaminated or moldy fiberglass typically cannot be recycled.
• Check with local recycling centers, as not all facilities accept it.
• Some insulation manufacturers offer take-back or recycling programs for clean fiberglass insulation.

If recycling isn’t possible, Koala Insulation of Upper Cumberland can help you safely remove and dispose of fiberglass in accordance with local regulations.

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2. Cellulose Insulation

Can it be recycled?
Yes, cellulose insulation is one of the most eco-friendly and recyclable options.

Made primarily from recycled newspaper and treated with fire retardants, cellulose is biodegradable and can be reused in some applications.

Recycling tips:

• Cellulose can be reprocessed for use in new insulation or as compost material in some cases.
• Clean, dry cellulose may also be repurposed by insulation installers.

Due to its composition, cellulose offers a greener lifecycle from installation to removal.

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3. Spray Foam Insulation

Can it be recycled?
No, spray foam is generally not recyclable once cured.

Spray polyurethane foam (SPF) adheres permanently to surfaces and hardens into a solid form. Once installed and cured, it’s difficult to remove and cannot be melted down or reused.

Disposal tips:

• Must be cut away manually and disposed of as construction waste.
• Some specialized facilities may accept cured foam for energy recovery (incineration).

At Koala Insulation of Upper Cumberland, we recommend proper containment and disposal procedures when removing spray foam to avoid health or environmental risks.

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4. Mineral Wool / Rockwool Insulation

Can it be recycled?
Yes, but it depends on local facilities.

Mineral wool is made from basalt rock or industrial slag and is highly durable and fire-resistant. Like fiberglass, it can be recycled if it’s clean and uncontaminated.

Recycling tips:

• Contact local recycling centers to check acceptance policies.
• Some manufacturers may accept returns or help locate recycling partners.

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When Should You Replace Old Insulation?

Recycling aside, here are signs your insulation might need to be removed and replaced:

• Age: Insulation over 15–20 years old may not meet modern energy codes.
• Moisture damage: Wet insulation loses its R-value and can harbor mold.
• Pest infestation: Rodents or insects can compromise performance and health safety.
• Inadequate coverage: Gaps or uneven layers reduce efficiency.
• High energy bills: Poor insulation can make heating and cooling systems work harder.

If you’re experiencing any of these issues, it may be time to schedule an inspection with Koala Insulation of Upper Cumberland. We’ll assess your current insulation and recommend the best course of action—including safe removal and recycling when possible.

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Safe Handling and Removal of Old Insulation

Removing insulation can be hazardous if not done properly. Common risks include:

• Skin and respiratory irritation (especially with fiberglass or mineral wool)
• Exposure to mold or pests
• Airborne particles

That’s why it’s best to leave insulation removal to trained professionals. Our team at Koala Insulation of Upper Cumberland uses proper PPE, containment systems, and disposal procedures to ensure a clean, safe process.

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Sustainable Alternatives for Your New Insulation

If you’re committed to a green upgrade, consider eco-friendly insulation materials:

• Recycled denim or cotton batts
• Cellulose insulation made from 80%+ recycled content
• Blown-in fiberglass with recycled glass
• Spray foam with low-GWP blowing agents

We’ll help you weigh your options based on your budget, performance needs, and sustainability goals.

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What to Ask Before Recycling Insulation

If you’re considering recycling your old insulation, here are a few questions to ask:

• Is the insulation clean and free of contaminants?
• What type of insulation is it?
• Does your local recycling center accept this material?
• Are there specialized facilities nearby that handle insulation recycling?
• Will your insulation contractor handle removal and recycling?

Koala Insulation of Upper Cumberland can assist with all of these questions and guide you through a responsible removal process.

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Conclusion

While not all insulation can be recycled, many types—including fiberglass and cellulose—offer sustainable disposal and reuse options. Recycling your old insulation helps minimize landfill waste and supports environmentally responsible home upgrades.

If you’re unsure of what kind of insulation you have, whether it can be recycled, or if it’s time for a replacement, we’re here to help.Call Koala Insulation of Upper Cumberland at (931) 203-1321 or visit our website for a free estimate and consultation. Our team will safely remove your old insulation and recommend energy-efficient, eco-friendly solutions tailored to your home.