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How To
Install Fiberglass Insulation |
Fiberglass insulation is easy to install
yourself and the added R value will save you money in
heating and cooling costs.
Tools: Scissors, measuring tape, ladder, utility knife,
straight edge (you can use a 2x4 or any piece of wood), flat
piece of plywood to cut on, latex gloves, mask, wall
stapler, staples
This installation is for paper backed rolls.
Tip: If you have 2x4 walls you will need R-11 or R-13 rated
batts; 2x6 walls will need R-19 rated batts.
1. Wear a mask and latex gloves to do this job. The
fiberglass particles are itchy and hazardous if breathed in.
Tuck the gloves over your sleeves so the fiberglass does not
come into contact with your skin.
2. Measure your wall from floor to ceiling and cut the
insulation to size. Cutting the batt is done by placing the
area to be cut, paper side up, on a piece of plywood or
hardboard. Place the straight edge along the cut line and
press down with your knee. Use a utility knife to slice
along the straight edge. Cut several pieces at once to save
time, as they all should be about the same length.
3. Starting at the top of the wall, place the insulation
batt between the wall joists. Pull the paper at the top of
the batt about 1” onto the top stud and staple. (If you plan
on installing wallboard with an adhesive, the studs should
be bare, and you must attach the paper to the sides only)
4. There is a paper flange on the side of each batt that is
used to cover the front of the wall stud. This is to make
stapling easier and to create a vapor seal with no open
areas. Spread the flange onto the stud on each side and make
your way down the wall, stapling about 6 inches apart.
Smooth out the paper along the stud and go from side to side
with your stapling so it remains even. Finish the wall by
stapling the bottom of the batt to the bottom stud. If you
come to an electric outlet, use a pair of scissors to cut a
space for the box, and tuck the insulation behind the box.
5. Electric wires running through the walls should be
accommodated by slicing the insulation down to the paper and
tucking it around the wires.
6. Smaller spaces around windows can be filled by gently
tucking loose insulation into the space. Do not pack
tightly. Insulation must stay puffy to work best. If you
have any joists that are narrower than the insulation batt,
cut to fit allowing for a 1” overlap on each side, top, and
bottom. |
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eHomeResource.com
Home Tips &
Related Articles |
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What is R-Value?
R-value is a measurement to an insulations resistance to
heat. Insulation contains pockets of air that slow the
transfer of heat. Simply put, the higher your r-value the
better your insulation is. |
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