Attic Insulation Tips

Homeowners understand that it is important to have the attic well insulated.  It keeps hot air from escaping during cold times and retains the cool in the warm and hot months.  Re-insulating or adding insulation is something that is best left to home insulation contractors.  If you wonder why, here are some good tips.

How Much To Add?

There are guidelines about how much insulation is appropriate for part of the country.  While you want to have sufficient coverage, you don’t want to waste money.  Professional insulation companies in Virginia beach have access to these and other charts and guidelines to help you.

You will need to remove and safely dispose of any existing insulation that is compressed, water damaged or stained, and/or moldy.  Some old insulation can contain asbestos, which needs its own special handling.

Knowing How to Add Insulation

Insulation adds a barrier between your interior and the elements.  It comes in rolls or can be blown into the attic space.  The rolls or batts should be laid with the foil side down on the attic floor.  There needs to be sufficient space for air flow and insulation that is too tight will actually reduce the effectiveness.  It must be snug but not overly tight.

Vents need to remain free to allow fresh air to enter through soffits.  A professional will install a polystyrene baffle between each pair of rafter so that the vents remain open.

Material Types

As mentioned, the two basic types of insulation is loose fill and batts.  Loose fill is blown into the space using machinery.  Manually spreading it is very difficult and time-consuming and the end result is generally not as beneficial.  Loose fill comes in fiberglass, cellulose and mineral wood.  Batts come in large rolls and the insulation can be purchased in various thicknesses.  They also come in fiberglass, cellulose and mineral wool as well as cotton.

Below the Attic

All cracks and holes should be caulked or sealed in some way.  This includes cables, ducts, pipes, and wiring.  Some of these areas will need fireproof materials.

If the rooms below the attic have recessed lighting, it is important to understand that these lights will generate a significant amount of heat.  That means when they are in use and if they are close to the attic insulation, a fire can start.  For standard recessed lighting, the insulation must be kept at least three inches from the fixture.  For IC-rated lighting, the insulation can lay on top.  It is important to know what you are dealing with in order to correctly install the insulation.

Clothing 

It is important to wear protective gear whenever working with insulation.  That includes eyewear, gloves, masks, and clothing with tight-fitting hand and leg openings.  A respirator is recommended.

As you can tell, adding or replacing attic insulation requires a lot of knowledge, equipment, safety equipment and access to materials and disposal facilities.  Your best option is to contact a professional company that deals in insulation.

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