Yes. If your existing ceiling insulation is in reasonable condition but too thin, compacted or patchy, we can top it up with new batts or pump-in Woolcell laid over the top to bring your ceiling up to a better R-value. If the old insulation is damaged, dirty or a loose-fill product that has settled badly, we will recommend removing it first and starting fresh.
When a Top-Up Works and When Removal Makes More Sense
Many Sydney homes built before 2000 have ceiling insulation that has flattened over the decades, been pushed around by tradies working in the roof, or was never very thick to begin with. Insulation that has lost its thickness loses performance, so the house heats up faster in summer and loses warmth faster in winter. A top-up fills the gaps and adds depth without the cost of removing everything.
For top-ups, we typically use either Woolcell, our own Australian-made cellulose and wool pump-in insulation, or polyester or fibreglass batts laid over the existing layer. Woolcell is blown in through a hose, so it suits roofs with awkward access or lots of obstructions and settles evenly around joists. Batts suit open ceiling spaces that are easy to move around in. Woolcell carries a lifetime warranty, and our packages are built around TR 4.1, the ceiling level we recommend for NSW homes, with higher-rated options available on request.
A top-up is not the right call every time. If the old insulation is contaminated with vermin droppings, water damage, or an older loose-fill product, laying new material over it just buries the problem. In those cases, we vacuum out the old insulation first, then install new product. We also check around downlights and other fittings, which need the right clearance from insulation.
Thinking About Topping Up Your Ceiling?
Have a look at our roof insulation options for Sydney homes to see what a top-up could involve. If you are not sure whether to top up or start fresh, contact our team and 4 Seasons Home Insulation will check what is in your roof as part of a free measure and quote.
