Adding Attic Insulation Diy

Mother s researchers show homesteaders how to make and install your own insulation creating a low cost good quality insulation using newspapers and a farm type hammermill.

Adding attic insulation diy. How much does attic insulation cost. Before installing or adding attic insulation take these steps. Loose fill insulation fibers are packaged in bags and blown in place to the desired depth and density using special. These insulation levels will keep heated air from migrating out in winter.

You can add loose fill on top of fiberglass batts or blankets and vice versa. To install it just lay it across the joists. To make insulating an attic easier grab a helper and set aside two days. You can do it yourself for about 500.

The pros charge 1 500 to 2 000 to do a 1 200 sq ft. Cut and fit strips of 24 gauge sheet metal between the masonry chimney and the surrounding wood framing. You will also need a strong board to kneel on that will span the joists. If you already have six inches of insulation and you want to get to the recommended r 38 add an attic blanket it s also made of fiberglass but it has no paper backing.

Keep adding layers until you get to r 38. Use the fire blocking type. In a cooling climate a good blanket of attic insulation helps keep the house cooler and reduces the load on air conditioning equipment. If you use fiberglass over loose fill make sure the fiberglass batt has no paper or foil backing.

The structural elements are usually exposed in these areas which makes it easy to see what type of insulation you have and to measure its depth or thickness inches. Block all vents in the attic floor with baffles making sure to extend the baffles at least four inches above the planned thickness of your insulation. It needs to be unfaced. If you need to add insulation in your attic save big by blowing in cellulose insulation yourself.

Use caulk and expanding foam the fire blocking type sealant to close air gaps around pipes ducts and electrical wires where they enter the attic. Blowing attic insulation isn t hard but it s dusty sweaty work. 3 have a friend add material to the hopper. When adding additional insulation you do not have to use the same type of insulation that currently exists in your attic.

Choose your insulation type and material 1. One for attic prep and the second to actually blow the insulation.