How To Install Insulation In Attic Rafters

Level uneven spots with a rake.

How to install insulation in attic rafters. Then feed the rolled insulation under wires and pipe if either is present. Attach insulation staple it to the rafters or scabbed on boards with a staple gun so that the paper backing is toward the interior of the room to act as a vapor barrier. For diy attic insulation you ve got two choices. Start by tucking small pieces of insulation between the rafters against the rafter vents.

With a helper to load the blower with insulation as needed start at the perimeter of the attic and work toward the attic access door. Staple through the plastic and into rafters. Overlap the sheets by 8 to 10 inches. Install the second layer of insulation.

Fill every joist space completely and evenly with the insulation leaving attic vents uncovered. You can use rigid foam panels or do as tom silva does with nearly all houses these. You can leave any existing insulation in place as long as it isn t damaged. Tape the seams with duct tape.

Make sure it is flush against the wood as even a 1 inch gap can cause a 20 percent heating loss. Attach the insulation to the rafter scab board by the paper flange so as not to compress the fiberglass. For rolled insulation place it between roof rafters. More insulation installation tricks and tips.

It s worth changing tactics to insulate between the rafters and wall joists instead of the floor. Staple sheets of 6 mil plastic over unfaced insulation to create a vapor barrier. The existing layer should sit at the top of the joists. Place the plastic sheeting on top of the rolled insulation.

If it doesn t add a small piece of insulation over top.