We offer our review of the three most popular types of attic insulation with a look at each one s pros and cons.
Attic insulation blown in.
Input length width and desired r value of the area to be insulated.
Blown in cellulose has a higher r rating and is less expensive than either blown insulation like fiberglass attic insulation or fiberglass batts.
See install batt and roll insulation for details.
Handy homeowners can install blown in insulation in the attic.
Your attic should have a certain amount of insulation in it and the recommended level of insulation for your attic is dependent on where you live.
The big disadvantage with spray foam is cost.
Blown in spray foam batts and blankets.
Inspecting your attic insulation.
If your attic or wall insulation is in batt or blanket form whether it s fiberglass cellulose or another material you generally don t have to be concerned about asbestos.
Loose fill insulation comes in a variety of materials.
It s generally 3 to 4 times what you ll pay for blown cellulose or fiberglass.
First things first you need to go up into your attic inspect the condition of the insulation and calculate the current level of insulation.
Contractor grade 30 lb.
Bag of all borate insulation is ideal for professional contractors that offer blow in attic sidewall and floor applications.
Both can be added to uninsulated attics or layered over existing material.
I d blow insulation on the attic floor after air sealing of course.
Batt and roll insulation works well between joist and stud spaces or if you have a wide open space or a crawlspace.
This calculator is to be used as an estimating tool only.
For diy attic insulation you ve got two choices.
Loose fill blown in insulation is best for tight spaces or if your attic already has a layer of insulation.
Once you ve decided which type is best for you examine the material options and prices to home in on the right product.
There are two main types of insulation.
Cellulose blown in ceiling insulation is a good choice for diyers.
Greenfiber cellulose insulation fills gaps and voids to create an energy saving thermal blanket that can lower heating and cooling costs by 25 and reduce sound power by 60.
Batt and roll insulation and loose fill sometimes known as blown in insulation.
There are other materials and systems that you can use to insulate your attic.
The types of insulation that were most commonly made with asbestos are loose fill also called blown in insulation.
Blown in cellulose is an environmentally friendly material made from recycled newspaper so it s easier on your skin and lungs.
Your options for attic insulation range from radiant barriers to sheets of mineral wool but most homeowners stick with products made from cellulose or fiberglass.
Blowing insulation into walls is best left to the pros because it involves drilling into stud spaces that may contain electrical.