Things You'll Need:
- goggles,
- gloves,
- heavy long-sleeved shirt
- heavy long pants
- utility knife
- stapler
- fiberglass insulation,
- 6-mil polyethylene sheeting,
- staples
- packing tape
-
Step 1
There are several types of fiberglass insulation to choose from. All come in batts cut to length for the size of standard stud wall bays.
One type has foil facings which provide a vapor barrier.
Some of these foils are even flame-resistant.
Some blankets are plastic encapsulated. The facing on these batts often tears easily which can be a drawback. I is also harder to work with successfully if it has to be fitted around obstacles and cut.
Some blankets, especially for rafters, are high density.
Standard blankets are unfaced and come in rolls and batts.
Before you make a decision inquire about the R value of the insulation. The higher this value is, the more heat it will keep in and the cold it keeps out.
You should also inquire of the building department what R Value you need in your area and also if the insulation job you do requires you to have it inspected before it is covers. -
Step 2
You will need some form of water barrier to keep the water vapor in the warm indoor air from passing out into the area of the framing where the cold air will condense it and in time cause mildew and possible rot.
Your vapor barrier will go between your insulation and whatever wall finishing you install. -
Step 3
Trim your insulation a bare 1/4 inch wider and longer than the space you are fitting. to do this set one side in the space, and holding the blanket against the wall stud, cut with your utility knife.
To install around wires, electrical boxes, etc., peel the blanket in half and put one half behind and the other in front.
Make sure you fill all the tiny areas around windows and doors with scraps. -
Step 4
If you are using a barrier with facing, tuck the edges of the insulation in until you can get the flange to lie flat with no gaps. Staple them to the framing members every 6 to 8 inches. Make sure you patch any tears in your faces insulation with construction tape.
-
Step 5
To install a polyethylene vapor barrier, drape the sheet over the entire wall or ceiling once your insulation is in place.
Overlap the sheet at least a foot.
Staple the sheeting to all the framing.
Cut out around the windows and electrical boxes. Seal with packing tape and staple again.
Your job is finished!
