|
In most homes, the attic is an open cavity where outside air can infiltrate into the home and inside air can escape out of the living space. This exchange of air can increase energy costs as you try to keep your home at a comfortable temperature. Adding insulation to this area can preserve your home's heat and air conditioning while decreasing your energy bill. Calculating R-Value To determine whether you need to increase the protective layers in your attic, assess the current substances in place. Note the type of substance (fiberglass, wool, or cellulose) and the current depth. For example, if you currently have 6 inches of loose fiberglass, you would multiply 6 by 2.5 to get a total R-value of 15. Once you have this number, configure it with the zone in which you live to determine how much more material you need to add to your attic to make it energy efficient. Choosing the Correct Material To determine which material fits the needs of your home, consider the climate in which you live, the design of your home, and your overall budget for the project. If you are performing this work yourself, the material you choose to install will determine the difficulty of the job. For instance, installing rolls is a much easier process than installing loose fill materials. Overview of Materials -Batt insulation comes in rolls for simple installation. To install these fiberglass rolls, you simply unroll them to create layers. Generally, it's best to install one layer between rafters and a second layer perpendicularly on top of the first. The multiple layers ensure that air cannot infiltrate the fiberglass. -Loose fill may contain fiberglass, cellulose, or wool substances. This type of insulation has the benefit of conforming to whatever spaces and crevices you have in your attic for effective sealing. Installation requires pneumatic equipment that blows out the substances where you want them. -Rigid foam generally installs on exterior walls for protection from air infiltration. These sheets of foam come in a variety of thicknesses, and their R-values generally range between R-4 and R-6.5 per inch. Consider placing a piece of rigid foam over the access door into the attic to add an effective barrier. A Word about Light Fixtures It is common for light fixtures to exist in the floor of an attic where materials should be installed. To avoid potential danger from fire, you must install the materials correctly and keep them away from the light fixtures. Some light fixtures have a special design that makes them safe for contact, but other fixtures are not safe. Check the rating of any light fixtures to determine how to proceed. If you see the letters "IC" or the words "insulation contact" on the fixtures, you can proceed without barriers. If you do not see this designation, make barriers around the fixtures using wire mesh, which will prevent the fiberglass or foam from touching them. Always follow manufacturer instructions when installing insulation. If you perform the work yourself, wear protective gear for safety. Your efforts should increase the comfort level in your house. When considering insulation, Midland, MI residents visit All Seasons Heating, Cooling & Insulation. Learn more about this product at http://allseasonsheatingmidland.com/insulation/.
Related Articles -
insulation, midland, mi,
| 
