How to Lay Fiberglass

Fiberglass insulation comes in sheets and rolls.

Fiberglass has long been among the most effective as well inexpensive choices for insulation. Follow these simple steps to lay fiberglass, and reap the benefits of lower heating costs in the winter, as well as lower cooling costs during the warmer months.

Difficulty:

Moderate

Instructions

Things You'll Need

• Fiberglass insulation
• Utility knife
• Staple gun
• Polyethylene sheeting
• Packing tape
• Safety glasses
• Protective clothing
• Respirator or face mask

1. Rolled fiberglass insulation.

   Laying fiberglass requires some precautionary measures. Before working with any type of fiberglass it's imperative to protect eyes and skin. Wear long pants and long sleeves as well as work gloves, and be certain to wear eye protection. Bits of fiberglass can be extremely irritating to the skin and can damage eyes. A respirator or face mask is also advised, as breathing too much fiberglass can irritate or damage air passages.

2. Fiberglass insulation between studs in a wall.

   Fiberglass insulation comes in sheets and rolls. Sheets are best used for insulating walls. Rolls are a convenient way to insulate a ceiling, since it is done from above the ceiling, and can be simply rolled out and then cut. Polyethylene sheeting must be used on fiberglass insulation that doesn't come faced with a paper or foil moisture barrier. Some professionals prefer to use the sheeting anyway as a double means of preventing moisture build up.

3. Safety glasses protect the eyes from fiberglass fragments and dust.

   Fiberglass insulation should be cut just slightly longer and wider than is necessary to fit between studs. Never stuff the insulation between studs. Fiberglass loses its effectiveness when compressed.

4. When laying insulation around pipes, peel the fiberglass apart. Secure one-half of the thickness in back of the pipes, leaving the other half thickness to put on in the front. Polyethylene sheeting is put on after the fiberglass has been laid.

5. Secure the sheeting as needed with packing tape. Be certain to wash all clothes and tools used in the fiberglass insulating process, so as not to spread fibers throughout the home.