Quick Guide: How to Install Home Insulation Like a Pro

If you live in an area where winters really bite, you know that keeping heat in and cold out is a massive priority.

There are lots of things you can do to prepare your home for cold weather. However, with 25% of heat loss occurring through your roof, and 35% through your walls, your first line of defense is clear: good home insulation.

Many people are put off by the cost of getting a professional contractor to install home insulation. Following our great tips, you’ll be able to do it yourself – and like a pro too!

Read on for our foolproof guide on how to install home insulation!

Which Home Insulation is Right for Me?

Your choice of home insulation will depend on how cold it gets where you are, and the method of installation you choose.

For blind filling, choose a slow rise insulator that can be used to retro-fill existing walls. For exposed cavities, choices include fiberglass, rock wool, and natural fibers.

The R rating indicates how effective the insulator is. The higher the rating, the more insulating the material. Use this to decide what level would be suitable for your climate.

Get the Prep Right

You need to prepare some tools – and yourself – for the task ahead.

You need to put on:

• safety Glasses
• respirator
• gloves

Insulation can be dangerous stuff if inhaled or if it comes into contact with the skin. Don’t skimp on these two safety measures!

Gather these tools of the trade:

• measuring tape
• saw/blade to cut insulation
• utility knife

Interior Wall Insulation

Most interior walls are made with 2×6 batons, covered with chipboard and drywall. For best results, you will need to expose this cavity entirely so that you can fill it.

You can also remove part of the wall and use slow rise insulation. However, this method, known is blind filling, is more prone to leaving uninsulated patches.

Attic Insulation

For an unfinished attic, the goal is to keep the rooms below draft free, while allowing the roof to have needed ventilation.

This means insulating the floor of the attic only. Check out the preparation needed depending on whether you choose a spray or solid form of insulation.

Let’s face it – roofs and crawlspaces are not for everyone. If you choose to employ a contractor, make sure you pick an experienced, professional team like Attic Insulation Labs.

How to Install Home Insulation

Once you’ve chosen the right type of home insulation, installation is as simple as point and spray, or cut to size and fill in.

Make sure you measure carefully before cutting the insulation for installation. The fit should be snug – gaps will leave you exposed to the cold. However, don’t force it in, as this will affect the insulation’s effectiveness.

If you’re insulating around electrical lines, carefully follow the manufacturer’s instructions. Some may guide you to cut the insulation so that it tucks behind the wire and sits in front. The stops the wire being pushed back and put under strain.

For most forms of insulation, a standard utility knife will make the cuts just fine. Cut carefully to size; most insulation will hold in place until you’re ready to apply drywall.

The Bottom Line: Installing Home Insulation Like a Pro

The bottom line for installing your home insulation is to get the prep right, choose the right material and get a good seal.

Take care of these points, and you’ll enjoy a cozy home this winter!

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