How to Install Blown-in Attic Insulation
Blown in insulation is made of shredded and recycled newspaper or other fiber that has been mixed with boric acid to protect it against fire and insects. This material is blown into attic cavities using a special fan and tube system that distributes it evenly over a horizontal surface. Blown-in insulation can also be used in walls, although it is prone to settling and leaving gaps. It is ideal for attic spaces, where its horizontal distribution keeps it in place with no settling.
Other People Are Reading
Things You'll Need
- Insulation blower
- Bags of cellulose insulation
- Coveralls
- Dust mask
- Respirator
- Staple gun
- Plastic insulation vents
Instructions
-
-
1
Rent a blown-in insulation blower for insulating the attic. Read all the instructions before beginning. Like any unfamiliar tool, it may take some practice to become proficient with it.
-
2
Wear coveralls and either a dust mask or a respirator when blowing in the insulation. Although it isn't toxic, insulation may disturb your throat and lungs if you breathe in the dust. Also, the fine particles are difficult to get out of clothing.
-
-
3
Staple plastic insulation vents into the spaces between the roof joists at their lowest point, next to the eaves. These vents prevent the blown-in insulation from pressing against the underside of the roof and impairing ventilation to the attic.
-
4
Begin at the side of the attic farthest from the entry point. Be careful to step only on the joists. If you step on the ceiling that is attached to the bottoms of the joists you might go right through it. Turn on the blower and direct the insulation so that its flow is parallel, not perpendicular, to the direction of the joists. Blow the insulation into the farthest points, underneath the eaves, then work back toward where you are standing. Cover the spaces between three or four joists at one time, then move sideways and begin filling the next spaces.
-
5
Don't compact the insulation by stepping on it, pressing it or forcing it down with the blowing tube. The effectiveness of the insulation depends on its fluffiness and the dead air that is trapped inside of it.
-
6
Taper the height of the insulation down around the trap door to the attic to avoid causing it to fall out every time the trap door is opened.
-
1
