Because the simplest and cheapest way to insulate an attic is to add material to the floor.
Where to insulate an attic.
In addition to walls and attics insulation should be installed in ceilings with unheated spaces basement walls floors above vented crawl spaces cathedral ceilings floors over unheated garages or porches knee walls and in between interior walls especially bathrooms as well as ceilings and floors.
Lay the batts across the ceiling joists covering the existing insulation.
While wearing dust mask and gloves carry r 38 batts of unfaced fiberglass insulation into the attic.
At the same time the areas below the roof benefit from increased comfort both during the winter and the summer.
2d extend insulation into joist space to reduce air flows.
Use the fire blocking type.
So it s time to pay close attention to what s happening up there.
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Blown in insulation is installed using blowing machines.
There are two basic ways to insulate a finished attic.
In finished attic rooms with or without dormer insulate 2a between the studs of knee walls 2b between the studs and rafters of exterior walls and roof 2c and ceilings with cold spaces above.
Before installing or adding attic insulation take these steps.
Insulating the attic floor.
In this way you prevent the heat from the rooms below escaping to the attic rooms above.
But the best solution is actually to insulate both the attic floor and the underside of the roof.
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Additionally purchase some loose fill insulation to insulate corners and angles where the batting won t fit.
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.
You ll want to buy enough batting to lay at least 10 to 14 inches over the entire space.
In this case the area behind the knee wall will be uncomfortably hot or cold.
Plan to pull up the flooring and layer new insulation on top of the old.
Proper attic insulation is the best way to prevent heat loss in the winter and retain cool air in the summer.
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.
Probably in more place than you think.
Cut and fit strips of 24 gauge sheet metal between the masonry chimney and the surrounding wood framing.
In this video this old house general contractor tom silva and host kevin o connor explain how to insulate an attic.
You get a free blown in machine rental with your insulation purchase.