To upgrade attic insulation unroll the insulation with the paper side out.
Small attic insulating tips.
Don t worry if the fiberglass batt insulation at the home center seems to be too thin.
Insulation goes between roof and interior space if your attic is already finished it probably is at least partially insulated.
Then use the numbers in the chart at right to estimate its r value.
Then to really seal the attic access up tight says olson lay fiberglass batt insulation on the inside of the hatch or door and wrap it up tight like a christmas present photo 3.
Pull up and dispose of any material that s compressed water stained or moldy it s useless.
Then put a short length of 2x4 at the point where you want to cut put your foot on the 2x4 and lean on it to compress the fiberglass.
It will expand to as much as 6 inches thick.
Grab a tape measure and a flashlight to see what kind of insulation you already have in the attic and how deep it is.
Simply put insulating the attic will make your entire home more comfortable and energy efficient.
However most older attics are under insulated so it s a good idea to raise the r value where possible.
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.
Loose fill insulation is great for installing in attics with very little headroom and multiple obstructions such as vents and cross beams.
Here are eight diy tips for insulating your attic.
Above all be safe.
To cut a batt to size lay it on a piece of plywood.
If you re finishing your attic insulating it to the proper r value can cause a dramatic loss of headroom if you limit yourself to fiberglass batts.
Be careful not to step between the joists.
Be sure to install insulation on the attic walls and ceiling.
Additionally a lightweight disposable coverall gloves and hat can keep itchy and irritating insulation off your skin.
Wear knee pads to help prevent pain associated with crawling on attic joists.
The entire process of sealing your attic will be made easier if you take the time and effort to wear the right gear.
Many pipes wiring and other obstructions.
Existing insulation that fills gaps well and just needs to be topped off.
A finished attic should be insulated much like the rest of the house with insulation in the walls and ceiling.
No matter how small your attic is what obstructions are in the space and what material is used it s recommended to make sure your space is properly air sealed and ventilated.
It can be effectively blown over existing insulation and.
To keep the blown in insulation from falling through the attic hatch opening make a 2x12 dam around the hatch perimeter.
