Installing Attic Insulation

Supplies

Just as with any home improvement job you tackle, you need to gather together all the tools and supplies needed for installing attic insulation, including the following:

• Work gloves
• Safety goggles
• Face mask
• Stapler
• Straight edge
• Utility knife
• Putty knife
• Tape measure
• Rake
• Power light
• Plywood (a piece large enough to stand on)

Don't overlook what you wear when you are laying insulation. Cover up as much as possible with a long sleeve shirt, pants, socks, and even a hat.

Installing Attic Insulation

Once you've gathered up all the supplies and tools, you're ready to begin. If you haven't already done so, now is the time to measure your attic to determine how much insulation you'll need.

You'll also need to choose the correct R-value insulation based upon your geographical location. The home improvement store you purchase your insulation from should be able to help you. There are also websites, such as Attic Protector that let you calculate the R-value for your area.

1. Your first step is to install any necessary baffles. These are typically installed with staples between rafters to provide unrestricted air flow. You'll generally place baffles at the intersection between the joists and the rafters. Installing baffles can also keep insulation away from any electrical fixtures, but be sure you keep the baffle several inches away from anything electrical as well to avoid a fire hazard.
2. You can choose insulation that already has a vapor barrier on one side, or you can create your own vapor barrier by laying sheets of plastic down where you will eventually lay the insulation. To keep the plastic in place, use a staple gun and staple it at intervals to the floor joists.
3. When installing attic insulation, you'll need to measure one section at a time. Take your measurements, then cut your insulation. As you lay each section, make sure it fits snugly. You'll need to gently press it into place, without compressing it, which could decrease its insulating power. As you lay each section, make sure that all of the spaces are filled.
4. Some people prefer adding a second layer of insulation into an attic that will remain unfinished. If you plan on doing this, you should set this insulation at a perpendicular angle to the joists. Don't purchase insulation with a vapor barrier for this second layer. You don't want any moisture to become trapped between the layers.

Loose Fill Insulation

Some people prefer blowing cellulose insulation into an attic. This is often the case for attics that are floored. If your attic is floored, you may need to remove some of the flooring in order to access all the areas that need to be insulated. Once you've done this, you can angle a hose into the attic and blow the insulation into all the necessary spaces. This is typically a two-person job. If your attic isn't floored but you still prefer to use loose insulation, you can do so without the use of a blower. Simply add the insulation between the ceiling joists and spread it with a rake.

Caution

Not only do you need to protect your skin from harsh insulation, but you need to use caution when adding insulation, whether in sections or loose. Keep all insulation away from electrical fixtures. Loose insulation can be especially dangerous as it can drift toward recessed lighting fixtures and create a fire hazard. There should be at least three inches between any fixtures and the insulation.

If this bothers you, consider using flush-mounted lighting fixtures instead. For added energy efficiency, use a caulking gun to close up additional spaces around duct work and pipes and in nail holes. Finally, you'll need to check your attic occasionally to be sure the insulation is still in its proper place.