How To Properly Insulate An Attic Ceiling

Most codes require a specified minimum amount of headroom and it s tough to meet this requirement when insulating a finished attic especially since most codes require insulation equal to r 38 or more.

How to properly insulate an attic ceiling.

Because the simplest and cheapest way to insulate an attic is to add material to the floor. Use the insulation calculator to plug in your zip code lifestyle factors building design energy costs and budget to get a detailed recommendation. But if the floor is covered in plywood you can t stuff enough insulation beneath it to do the job sufficiently not even in warm climates. The recommended ceiling insulation level for most attics is r 38 or about 12 to 15 in.

Insulating a finished attic there are two basic ways to insulate a finished attic. Ensure insulation extends to the outside edge of the exterior top plates and is flush against any ventilation dams baffles. Friction fit insulation snugly between and parallel to all standard and narrow attic framing members. In this case the area behind the knee wall will be uncomfortably hot or cold.

Set up a stepladder tall enough to work comfortably from. Purchase rolls or packages of insulation that will fit in the spaces between the ceiling joists. Typical ceiling insulation involves spreading either loose fill or batt the term commonly used for blanket insulation within the attic or airspace of a home. From the drywall depending on the insulation type.

If only the living space will be insulated wrap the insulation around the room s walls and ceiling and then continue along the floor of the non living space. While wearing dust mask and gloves carry r 38 batts of unfaced fiberglass insulation into the attic. Lay the batts across the ceiling joists covering the existing insulation. Ensure ends of insulation are butted together and flush to underside of framing.

Plan to pull up the flooring and layer new insulation on top of the old.