How to Install Paper-Backed Batt Insulation

Install insulation to cut energy costs.

Adding insulation improves the energy efficiency of your home and lowers your utility bills. Installing paper-backed batt insulation in walls, attics or basements is a project most do-it- yourselfers can handle. The batts, made of fiberglass, are pre-cut to fit between studs or joists, and are available in several thicknesses. Your local building supplier can help you determine how many batts you'll need to purchase for the space you have to insulate.

Things You'll Need

• Caulking
• Expanding foam insulation
• Wood or metal baffles
• Razor knife
• Staple gun
• Protective clothing

Instructions

1. Seal all air leaks in the area you're going to insulate by caulking around joints, windows and doors. Use expanding foam insulation for larger gaps.

2. Block off recessed lighting fixtures, chimneys and other heat sources to keep insulation at least three inches away from these areas. You can build wooden or metal baffles to separate these fixtures from insulation.

3. Remove the plastic wrapping from the insulation bundle. Roll the bundle until the sides of the batts are facing toward you. Slit the plastic covering with a razor knife. Cutting the wrapping on this side prevents you from cutting into the paper backing of the insulation.

4. Remove one batt from the bundle. Fit the batt between the wall studs or floor and ceiling joists, with the paper backing facing toward the heated interior of the house -- or the area that will be heated once the house is finished.

5. Staple the paper flange along the edge of the insulation batt to the wall studs or floor joists with the staple gun, installing a staple every two feet or so along both edges. This helps hold the insulation in place.

6. Butt the ends of insulation batts close together. Cut the insulation with a razor knife when necessary to fit around windows, doors and architectural features. Slide the insulation gently under wiring and plumbing or trim the insulation to fit around these. Don't cover these with insulation.

Tips & Warnings

• Wear long pants, a long-sleeved shirt, gloves, a dust mask and goggles to keep the insulation off your skin and out of your nose, mouth and eyes.

References

• MGE: How to Insulate Your Attic
• Guardian Building Products: How to Install Fiberglass Insulation