How to Insulate a Newly Framed Wall

Reduced energy costs result when you insulate your structure well. Adding insulation between newly framed wall studs is a straightforward project for homeowners. Follow a few basic steps and tips and you'll have your interior space insulated against the outside elements in a jiffy.

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Things You’ll Need:

• Personal protective equipment--gloves, goggles, dust mask
• Insulation batts
• Measuring tape
• Straight-edge--ruler or L square
• Utility knife
• Staple gun and staples

1. Determine the R-factor, or insulating value, needed for your space. Ask your local building inspector or the salesperson where you buy your insulation or use the resources section below to find a chart. R-factor is determined by the prevailing local climate and potential energy loss.
2. Purchase the proper width insulation to fit between the wall studs. Studs are normally spaced 16 inches apart from the center of one stud to the center of the next, leaving a space of about 15 inches between, so you would buy 15-inch-wide insulation if that is the case.
3. Measure the length of the spaces between studs from the bottom sill to the top plate, then measure out pieces of insulation to that length.
4. Lay the insulation faced side up and place a straight edge at the cutting lines. Press down with the straight edge and cut along it and through the batt with a sharp utility knife.
5. Press the strips of insulation lightly into the spaces between studs and adjust it to fill the cavities. The side covered with Kraft paper should be toward the interior of the room. Don't compress the batts tightly or you'll lose insulating value.
6. Flip out the Kraft paper tabs along both edges of the insulation batts to cover the edges of the wall studs.
7. Staple the tabs to the studs about every six inches down the length of each stud.

Tips & Warnings

• Buy insulation batts that are completely encapsulated in plastic for an itch-free job and greater energy savings.
• Wear goggles, gloves, long sleeves and pants and a particle mask or respirator when installing insulation.
• Don't place insulation within three inches of lights, chimneys, pipes or other objects that radiate heat.

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