Insulating Attic Tips

The recommended level for most attics is to insulate to r 38 or about 10 to 14 inches depending on insulation type.

Insulating attic tips. Use caulk and expanding foam the fire blocking type sealant to close air gaps around pipes ducts and electrical wires where they enter the attic. Before installing or adding attic insulation take these steps. Insulating a finished attic there are two basic ways to insulate a finished attic. While your entire house should be insulated there s arguably no more important place to install insulation than in the attic.

Cut and fit strips of 24 gauge sheet metal between the masonry chimney and the surrounding wood framing. Start by installing temporary lighting such as clip lights and laying a few sturdy boards along the joists to create a walkway. To make insulating an attic easier grab a helper and set aside two days. The higher the r value the better the thermal performance of the insulation.

Pull down stair or ladder. Use a zippered insulated tent to keep the enclosure draft free attic tent at 7 attic cover insulator 120. Attic insulation is installed in the floor of the attic so you ll need to do a few things to make the process straightforward. If only the living space will be insulated wrap the insulation around the room s walls and ceiling and then continue along the floor of the non living space.

Insulation levels are specified by r value. One for attic prep and the second to actually blow the insulation. If the attic is unfinished the insulation should be installed on the floor. By the end of the weekend you re going to be sore and tired.

But saving 1 000 or more with blown in ceiling insulation will make up for your aching back. During winter attic insulation keeps heated room air from escaping up into the attic and in summer insulation prevents hot attic air from heating up the living spaces below. Since warm air has a tendency to rise and cool air to fall insulating the attic is the place to start. Cut slits in the vapor barrier to allow moisture to escape.

R value is a measure of insulation s ability to resist heat flow. Use the fire blocking type. Check the attic to make sure the insulation is installed properly. In this case the area behind the knee wall will be uncomfortably hot or cold.

Find out how much insulation should be in an attic and get some tips about this easy upgrade. Use a chef s knife to cut batts. If it is installed incorrectly with the vapor barrier facing up then the insulation will trap moisture causing possible water problems. Some pros prefer it to utility knives because the large blade easily slices through the thick material.