How Install Insulation In Attic

In this video this old house general contractor tom silva and host kevin o connor explain how to insulate an attic.

How install insulation in attic.

Commonly used for diy projects they work well in open spaces like attic floors. Old insulation is removed and the attic space is cleaned out. Install pieces of wood or rulers at various spots around the attic to gauge the depth of your insulation as you work. The facing has a tab called a flange running along each side edge of the insulation.

Determine the type of insulation needed for your attic. When installing multiple layers of insulation for optimal thermal performance install the first layer bottom layer parallel to attic framing members and flush with both bottom and top. All kraft faced insulation is easy to cut with a sharp utility knife or insulation knife. The pros often use spray foam insulation or blow shredded insulation.

If installing shredded insulation fill the attic space at least 15 inches high with insulation. Whether using loose fill or batts put the vapor barrier closest to the warm side of your installation where hot moist air would get in facing the house s interior in cold climates beneath floor insulation and the attic s interior in hot climates on top of floor insulation. Batt and roll insulation also called blanket insulation are designed to fit between joists and wall stud cavities. Installing attic insulation requires first preparing the surfaces around the attic entry to ensure that any contaminants in the attic aren t spread throughout the home.

Begin laying in the insulation starting at an area farthest from the attic access image 1. When rolling the insulation cut it to length using a utility knife. Lay the batts across the ceiling joists covering the existing insulation. When you reach the end of a line pull the insulation back slightly then place it on a joist so there is a solid surface to cut on.

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. If installing fiberglass mats start by laying the mats at the furthest point from the attic access. There are many different ways to install insulation. Install the second layer top layer perpendicular to attic framing members.