When installing insulation over wires, pipes, or fire blocking, it will be necessary to back cut the batt to fit over the obstacle, leaving the paper intact and the insulation uncompressed. However, most older attics are under-insulated so it’s a good idea to raise the R-value where possible. Insulation Goes Between Roof and Interior Space If your attic is already finished, it probably is at least partially insulated. Cut it 1 inch wider than the necessary width, and tuck the fiberglass in to create a flange for stapling. A finished attic should be insulated much like the rest of the house, with insulation in the walls and ceiling. Where the spacing of the rafters is uneven, odd-angled, or not standard, you will need to cut the insulation to fit. It can be rented, if you don't have access to one. Make sure the paper flange and the staples lie flat against the board to create an even surface for attaching the finished wall material.Ī time- and work-saving aid here would be an air compressor with a staple-gun attachment. Attach the insulation to the rafter scab board by the paper flange, so as not to compress the fiberglass. Use 3/8-inch heavy-duty staples every six inches. Staple it to the rafters or scabbed-on boards with a staple gun so that the paper backing is toward the interior of the room, to act as a vapor barrier. Buildings with flat ceilings are usually insulated at the ceiling. Use your straightedge to compress the insulation before cutting, and use a very sharp utility knife to assure a good, straight cut across the fiberglass batt. Attic and roof insulation are two of the most cost-effective energy conservation measures. Cut each piece of insulation an inch or two longer than needed, to assure a snug fit. Once you have these in place, measure the length of the spaces between your rafters. Attic baffles, also known as rafter vents, go along the sides of your attic and keep your soffit vents from being blocked by insulation. You should only insulate your rafters if you have baffles installed to separate the actual rafters themselves from the insulation. be to insulate the living space of the house while allowing the roof to. Check with your doctor to see if these might be necessary. Insulating the attic should be a top priority for preventing heat loss because. You might even consider taking salt tablets or getting a tetanus booster.
Install the vapour permeable breather membrane layer. It may help to add a spray container of cold water to your toolbox-to spray yourself and your fogged-up goggles. Clear the attic room as much as possible so that all the rafters and vertical stud work etc is visible. Plan for a few breaks in your work schedule and try to work early in the morning, before it gets too hot.