Attic Insulation Basics

Both can be added to uninsulated attics or layered over existing material.

Attic insulation basics.

Sounds excessive but it isn t. Achieving greater r values in attics 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.

It s available in fiberglass mineral wool plastic fibers and natural fibers. The recommended level for most attics is to insulate to r 38 or about 10 to 14 inches depending on insulation type. Attic most building codes also require insulation in the attic. Blanket insulation is available as batts or rolls and is the easiest diy insulation material.

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. Blown in dry cellulose insulation is commonly used in this area of the home. Most of us spend the majority of our time in our homes and for those of us who spend the majority of our time at work we wish we spent more time at home. This type of insulation.

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. The more heat you can prevent from escaping into your attic the healthier your attic and roof will be.

Batt insulation is a type of insulation made of loosely matted fibers fashioned into a blanket like form. 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. Loose fill or batt the common term for blanket insulation. R value is a measure of insulation s ability to resist heat flow.

For diy attic insulation you ve got two choices. We all know that insulation makes our homes more energy efficient. Insulation levels are specified by r value. The higher the r value the better the thermal performance of the insulation.

Check your attic insulation. Once you ve decided which type is best for you examine the material options and prices to home in on the right product.