Best Insulation To Use In Attic Over Existing Insulation

Proper attic insulation is the best way to prevent heat loss in the winter and retain cool air in the summer.

Best insulation to use in attic over existing insulation.

When the time comes to sell your home a well insulated attic is a plus. The big disadvantage with spray foam is cost. Faced insulation should not be placed on top of existing insulation in the attic. There are other materials and systems that you can use to insulate your attic.

It s generally 3 to 4 times what you ll pay for blown cellulose or fiberglass. Whether you live in a warm weather state as i do or in a cooler northern climate it s hard to stay comfortable and keep your energy bills in check if you don t have adequate insulation in the attic. Check the attic walls and floors adjacent to an unheated space like a garage or basement. It can be effectively blown over existing insulation and is available in.

I d blow insulation on the attic floor after air sealing of course. It is vital that any new batt or roll insulation that is installed over existing insulation in the attic be without vapour retarder. Any existing batt or roll insulation in your attic needs to have the facing against the attic drywall floor or no facing at all. The vapor retarder on top of or between layers of insulation can trap moisture.

The table below shows what levels of insulation are cost effective for different climates and locations in the home. For diy attic insulation you ve got two choices. To install fiberglass batts over existing insulation lay the batts perpendicular to the joists so they do not compress the insulation below. Once you ve decided which type is best for you examine the material options and prices to home in on the right product.

The vapour retarder on top of or between layers will trap moisture. Any new batt or roll insulation installed over existing insulation in the attic needs to be without a vapor retarder face. Loose fill or batt the common term for blanket insulation. The higher the r value the better the thermal performance of the insulation.

R value is a measure of insulation s ability to resist heat traveling through it. Best of all insulation is relatively easy to install and the average attic can be completed over the course of a weekend. Rolls and batts are produced of mineral wool and fiberglass. Modern technology of blanket insulation today is considered the best insulation for attic.

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.