Attic Insulation Basics

Achieving greater r values in attics the higher the r value the better the thermal performance of the insulation.

Attic insulation basics.

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. Blown in dry cellulose insulation is commonly used in this area of the home. We all know that insulation makes our homes more energy efficient.

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. If the cost to heat and cool your home is getting you down don t worry. Blanket insulation is available as batts or rolls and is the easiest diy insulation material. Sounds excessive but it isn t.

For diy attic insulation you ve got two choices. For attics cellulose insulation is blown in parallel to the joists. The recommended level for most attics is to insulate to r 38 or about 10 to 14 inches depending on insulation type. It s available in fiberglass mineral wool plastic fibers and natural fibers.

Loose fill or batt the common term for blanket insulation. The higher the r value the better the thermal performance of the insulation. The installation process for dry cellulose insulation looks like this. Once you ve decided which type is best for you examine the material options and prices to home in on the right product.

But even if you re lucky enough to have insulation in your home you heating and cooling bills might be out of control. It simply is blown in to the depth required to meet the r value specified by local code. Check your attic insulation. Batt insulation is a type of insulation made of loosely matted fibers fashioned into a blanket like form.

This type of insulation. Both can be added to uninsulated attics or layered over existing material. In frigid areas experts recommend 12 of fiberglass insulation between the living space and attic giving you an r value of 38. R value is a measure of insulation s ability to resist heat flow.

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. 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.