Are you tired of drafty floors and high utility bills, but can’t afford to pay someone to install insulation? I will educate you on Attic insulation and crawl space insulation so you will be able to insulate like a pro.

Attic insulation is often accomplished with fiberglass. When using this type of insulation make sure the backing is facing toward you. You should secure insulation against studs, the staples spaced 6″ apart. Special cut insulation is needed for uneven areas, pipes and wiring. This will ensure an air tight seal. Unfaced material is needed around heat sources. You should allow a 3″ gap around light fixtures.

The next step in Crawl space insulation is to choose your insulation. The preferred is either batt and blanket or fiberglass. Install the insulation according to manufacture directions. Be sure to fill all gaps. Use batt and blanket to custom fit wiring and plumbing. Use fiberglass for band joints, air ducts and foundation walls. For rim joints use polyurethane insulation. Secure with insulation hangers spaced 12-18′ apart be sure the facing is up unless you live in an area with hot summers and mild winters.

Next insulate and secure the area. Some prefer fiberglass, others batt and blanket for crawl space insulation. Place insulation over the entire area, filling gaps. Use batts with a vapor barrier to cut and fit insulation around plumbing and electrical. Use foam or foam and fiberglass for band joints and air ducts. Use polyurethane foam for rim joist. Foam sheet or fiber glass should be used on foundation walls. Use insulation hangers 12-18″ apart to hold in place. Facing should face up unless you live in an area with mild winters and hot summers.

If you have a vented crawl space make sure appliances in it has a powered combustion system then close the vents, to prevent moisture buildup. When insulation be sure to tape the seams before you fasten them and either house wrap, vapor barrier afterwards.

The final step in crawl space insulation is to protect your home against moisture and bugs. The crawl space dirt floor should be covered in polyethylene and then facings on top. The facing seams should be taped to ensure a better seal. Finally apply a shield against termites between band joints and the masonry foundation. It is wise to leave a 3″ for termite inspection.

Once the attic insulation is up a tight moisture seal barrier should be applied across the studs. If holes are found in the barrier you can carefully patch these with duct tape. Once your insulation is complete you will need a good ventilation system to prevent damage to your roof.

Crawl space and attic insulation takes a little time, but it isn’t difficult to accomplish. If you follow the manufacture directions and my advice, you too can have a more cost efficient home.