Insulating Attic Over Existing Insulation
Faced insulation should not be placed on top of existing insulation in the attic.
Insulating attic over existing insulation. To install fiberglass batts over existing insulation lay the batts perpendicular to the joists so they do not compress the insulation below whether you live in a warm weather state as i do or in a cooler northern climate it s hard to stay comfortable and keep your energy bills in check if you don t have adequate insulation in the attic. Measure how much insulation you already have. More insulation installation tricks and tips work from the perimeter of the attic toward the door or hatch so that you don t trample all over the insulation you just. Install or repair vent chutes.
Pull the existing insulation away from the roof. Pull back the existing insulation and use expanding spray foam the fire blocking type to seal any. During new construction batt insulation thick strips of spun fiberglass or a paper based product is cut. In this case the area behind the knee wall will be uncomfortably hot or cold.
Install fiberglass batts over existing batt insulation. The recommended level for most attics is to insulate to r 38 or about 10 to 14 inches depending on insulation type. Another benefit of the ventilation is that it will keep your attic cooler in the summer as well as your house. A quick rule of thumb is that you should have a vapor barrier on the warm side of the insulation.
The vapor retarder on top of or between layers of insulation can trap moisture. Check the depth using a tape measure. Put on goggles and gloves to protect yourself while handling. Any existing batt or roll insulation in the attic should have the facing against the attic drywall floor or no facing at all.
Position the new vent chute so the. How do i add insulation to existing attic insulation. Any new batt or roll insulation installed over existing insulation in the attic needs to be without a vapor retarder face. Check the attic walls and floors adjacent to an unheated space like a garage or basement.
The structural elements are usually exposed in these areas which makes it easy to see what type of insulation you have and to measure its depth or thickness inches. Always cover the tops of the ceiling joists to make sure the insulation is deep enough to reach your target r value and. Add the right kind of insulation when adding additional insulation you do not have to use the same type of insulation that currently exists in your attic. Blown in insulation fills between existing wall studs and ceiling joists quickly and easily.
An un insulated attic should have some airflow to prevent humidity from building up in the winter which could condense and form ice.