Installing Fiberglass Insulation In Attic

Fiberglass insulation is energy efficient affordable easy to install and readily available in a wide variety of sizes types and r values.

Installing fiberglass insulation in attic.

It s budget friendly and newer products don t irritate the skin and lungs. Installing fiberglass attic insulation first time adding insulation to an attic. Fiberglass insulation is manufactured to slow airflow through the material. When installing fiberglass insulation in your home be sure to put the paper or foil vapor barrier facing toward the heated and cooled living area of the home down in attics up under floors in on walls to prevent condensation from occurring.

Fiberglass is probably the most common material. When installing fiberglass insulation observe all safety precautions. The facing has a tab called a flange running along each side edge of the insulation. Measure the depth of the existing insulation between the ceiling joists in the attic.

If installing shredded insulation fill the attic space at least 15 inches high with insulation. The pros often use spray foam insulation or blow shredded insulation. Loose fill or batt the common term for blanket insulation. While wearing dust mask and gloves carry r 38 batts of unfaced fiberglass insulation into the attic.

There are many different ways to install insulation. Once you ve decided which type is best for you examine the material options and prices to home in on the right product. Expert advice on how to install fiberglass insulation including methods for insulating walls floors ceilings attics and more. Multiply the depth in inches by 3 14 to determine the r value of the existing insulation.

All kraft faced insulation is easy to cut with a sharp utility knife or insulation knife. In this video this old house general contractor tom silva and host kevin o connor explain how to insulate an attic. The most common materials are fiberglass cellulose and rock wool. Fiberglass can release tiny fibers which can be harmful if breathed into the lungs and which may irritate the skin.

First you ll need to determine your r value. When installing the insulation in wood frame structures you fold out the flange and staple it to the side or front edge of the framing to secure the insulation. Lay down boards or plywood sheeting to help you be able to walk safely in the attic space. For more information see install blown in attic insulation and our.

If it s a new building simply reference the energy code map. Includes cutting and fastening insulation and insulating around obstacles. We ll walk you through the steps to help you find the right type of fiberglass attic insulation and the right amount. For diy attic insulation you ve got two choices.