Installing Fiberglass Insulation In Attic

Fiberglass can release tiny fibers which can be harmful if breathed into the lungs and which may irritate the skin.

Installing fiberglass insulation in attic.

There are many different ways to install insulation. The facing has a tab called a flange running along each side edge of the insulation. The most common materials are fiberglass cellulose and rock wool. If installing fiberglass mats start by laying the mats at the furthest point from the attic access.

Lay the batts across the ceiling joists covering the existing insulation. If it s a new building simply reference the energy code map. It s budget friendly and newer products don t irritate the skin and lungs. Loose fill or batt the common term for blanket insulation.

Measure the depth of the existing insulation between the ceiling joists in the attic. Once you ve decided which type is best for you examine the material options and prices to home in on the right product. In this video this old house general contractor tom silva and host kevin o connor explain how to insulate an attic. Both can be added to uninsulated attics or layered over existing material.

When installing fiberglass insulation observe all safety precautions. Fiberglass insulation is manufactured to slow airflow through the material. Fiberglass is probably the most common material. Expert advice on how to install fiberglass insulation including methods for insulating walls floors ceilings attics and more.

All kraft faced insulation is easy to cut with a sharp utility knife or insulation knife. Multiply the depth in inches by 3 14 to determine the r value of the existing insulation. Installing fiberglass attic insulation first time adding insulation to an attic. Lay down boards or plywood sheeting to help you be able to walk safely in the attic space.

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. Includes cutting and fastening insulation and insulating around obstacles. Fiberglass insulation is energy efficient affordable easy to install and readily available in a wide variety of sizes types and r values.

For diy attic insulation you ve got two choices. While wearing dust mask and gloves carry r 38 batts of unfaced fiberglass insulation into the attic. 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. The pros often use spray foam insulation or blow shredded insulation.