Insulating your attic is a great way to save money on energy bills and extend the life of your roof. It's a relatively simple process that most DIYers can do in a weekend, as long as you have the right materials and know-how. When it comes to choosing the type of insulation, you'll need to consider its R-value, which will determine its depth in the attic floor and the thickness applied to the roof. The most common types are fiberglass blocks or rolls, cellulose insulation, and foam ventilation ducts.
Fiberglass blocks or rolls are usually cheaper than loose fill or blow insulation, but they can take much longer to install. Cellulose insulation is applied by blowing and requires a technician in the attic. Foam ventilation ducts should be installed between each pair of roof beams in the narrow triangular section where the roof joins the attic beams. When installing fiberglass insulation, make sure that the side of the paper faces down if you are primarily going to heat your house. If the attic is already insulated, check if the lower part of the fiberglass insulation has a paper vapor barrier or a polyethylene barrier attached to it.
Additionally, be sure to block areas to keep the insulation away from the bottom of the attic roof, especially if you plan to use insulation that can blow. To begin installation, take unrolled insulation to the attic and extend it, starting at the corner farthest from the hatch. Once you have completed the first layer between the beams, you can choose to double up for greater insulating value. When you're done, be sure to check for any gaps or areas that may have been packed too tightly. Utility companies often offer discounts for installing radiant barriers, which can fully offset installation costs and save you money on energy bills. However, since attics can become dangerously hot during summer months, it's best to find a mild period to install your insulation - usually during the intermediate season between summer and fall. Attic insulation traps precious heat in winter and fresh air in summer, extends roof life, lowers energy bills, and even improves air quality.
With a bit of effort and some basic materials, you can easily install insulation in your attic and enjoy all these benefits.
