Attic Insulation Basics

It s available in fiberglass mineral wool plastic fibers and natural fibers.

Attic insulation basics.

It simply is blown in to the depth required to meet the r value specified by local code. It can be used by itself to fill in joist cavities that have no insulation or laid as a thick layer over the top of existing batts of fiberglass insulation. But even if you re lucky enough to have insulation in your home you heating and cooling bills might be out of control. In frigid areas experts recommend 12 of fiberglass insulation between the living space and attic giving you an r value of 38.

Blanket insulation is available as batts or rolls and is the easiest diy insulation material. Insulation levels are specified by r value. We all know that insulation makes our homes more energy efficient. Sounds excessive but it isn t.

Loose fill or batt the common term for blanket insulation. Batt insulation is a type of insulation made of loosely matted fibers fashioned into a blanket like form. The more heat you can prevent from escaping into your attic the healthier your attic and roof will be. Find your zone on the map and then use the chart to determine the level of insulation you need to properly insulate your attic walls floors and crawlspaces.

If the cost to heat and cool your home is getting you down don t worry. Attic most building codes also require insulation in the attic. The higher the r value the better the thermal performance of the insulation. Istock 14599457 attic insulation s4x3 insulation is one of the most important components of a home that can help to affordably keep you and your family comfortable year round.

For attics cellulose insulation is blown in parallel to the joists. Achieving greater r values in attics the higher the r value the better the thermal performance of the insulation. Both can be added to uninsulated attics or layered over existing material. The recommended level for most attics is to insulate to r 38 or about 10 to 14 inches depending on insulation type.

R value is a measure of insulation s ability to resist heat flow. Once you ve decided which type is best for you examine the material options and prices to home in on the right product. This type of insulation. Check your attic insulation.

Attics that need protection against all 6 paths of heating and cooling loss conduction convection radiation air infiltration moisture accumulation and air intrusion this insulation is not a source of food for pests so its great for attics with pest control issues. The installation process for dry cellulose insulation looks like this.