Attic Insulation Over Do It

Believe it or not there are situations in a home when you should remove the old attic insulation before adding more over the existing and in this short video.

Attic insulation over do it.

Cellulose insulation has an average thermal value of r 3 7 so you d need just over five inches to equal an r 19 batt. Batt and roll insulation works well between joist and stud spaces or if you have a wide open space or a crawlspace. Loose fill blown in insulation is best for tight spaces or if your attic already has a layer of insulation. There are two main types of insulation.

Also when laying down additional insulation work from the perimeter toward the attic opening. Never lay insulation over recessed light fixtures or soffit vents. Keep all insulation at least 3 inches away from recessed can lights unless they are rated ic insulated ceiling. Ideally you want about 10 20 surface contact with the foil.

Once you ve decided which type is best for you examine the material options and prices to home in on the right product. Foil radiant barrier does not cause moisture. Measure the depth of your current insulation. Determine if and where you already have insulation.

Your insulation will have some peaks and valleys and this is desirable. Batt and roll insulation and loose fill sometimes known as blown in insulation. The recommended level for most attics is to insulate to r 38 or about 10 to 14 inches depending on insulation type. Do not press into the insulation.

When adding additional insulation you do not have to use the same type of insulation that currently exists in your. Loose fill or batt the common term for blanket insulation. Both can be added to uninsulated attics or layered over existing material. It can be effectively blown over existing insulation and.

Add the right kind of insulation. The higher the r value the better the thermal performance of the insulation. See install batt and roll insulation for details. R 38 is the industry standard and the minimum thickness for r 38 is 12 inches.

If you are using loose fill insulation use sheet metal or wire. If you need to add insulation in your attic save big by blowing in cellulose insulation yourself. Calculate additional insulation needed. Blown in insulation overview.

For diy attic insulation you ve got two choices. Lay the radiant barrier foil loosely over the attic insulation. A bag of cellulose runs about 11 50 and will cover 36 7 square feet at a. The pros charge 1 500 to 2 000 to do a 1 200 sq ft.

If you do have insulation find out the type and compare it to industry standards.