Add Attic Insulation to Stop Heat Loss and Save Money

Safety Precautions

• Don't attempt to install attic insulation on a hot Summer day because attics can get 40 degrees hotter than the outside temperature.


• Before entering the attic, use a flashlight to look for any wildlife that may be living there.


• Wear a mask and old clothing to protect lungs and skin.


• Be sure to walk ONLY on the ceiling rafters so that you do not punch through the ceiling drywall.


• Be aware of portruding shingle nails in the roof sheating. They can penetrate your head if you attempt to stand up or stretch.

Supplies For Installing Attic Insulation

There are basically two ways of installing attic insulation. You can use rolls or batts of insulation or it can be blown in. How much attic insulation you need is determined by where you live. You won't go wrong by having 10 - 12" of insulation in your attic. Below you will find the instruction for installing batts or rolls of insulation.

Instructions for Rolls or Batts of Insulation

Instructions for Blowing in Insulation

1. If you see signs of mold or are concerned about attic mold, go to Detecting Mold In The Attic


2. When using rolls of fiberglass insulation, roll out the insulation starting in the hardest to get to place and roll towards the higher part of the attic.



Insulation Being Rolled Out


3. Baffles need to be installed about every 4 - 6 feet apart or aligned with the soffit vents already in place.
Baffles For Proper Attic Ventilation

4. The access hole needs to be built up as to not allow any insulation to fall down the access hole after you add material. Build this up for at least 12 - 14" with styrofoam. Adding a styrofoam top to really seal the attic from the living area is a great idea too.



Insulated Attic Access


5. Try not to place large amounts of any insulation near the furnace or water heater vent pipe.


6. Although some can lights may be covered up by insulation, it's my opinion not to do so if possible. This I think, reduces heat build up when the light is on for long periods of time.


7. Just keep in mind the worst thing you can do is to block ventilation points. Remove any insulation that lands where it is blocking a soffit vent.