How to Insulate an Attic in Texas

Insulation in Texas is applied thickly and during cool seasons.

In Texas, the main reason to use insulation is to protect the interior of a house from blasting heat. Inside Texas attics, the heat can reach nearly 150 degrees Fahrenheit. These hot temperatures require a lot of insulation to protect the interior of the house from the heat. Cellulose insulation is preferred for its environmentally friendly materials and its ability to fit into tight spaces. This project is best done during colder months, with a friend's help. The entire project can be completed in one weekend.

Things You'll Need

• Cellulose insulation
• Rented insulation blower with 2- to 3-inch diameter blowing hose
• Paper or polyethylene vapor barrier
• Reflective insulation tape
• Dust mask
• Safety goggles
• Work gloves
• Water bottles

Instructions

1. Blow cellulose insulation into the attic with an insulation blower. Start in the corner of the attic furthest away from the attic entrance. Blow the insulation between roof rafters to a depth of six inches, which is usually about to the height of the top of the roof rafters.

2. Blow additional insulation over the rafters for an additional depth of six inches. This will create an insulation rating of R-38. Do not avoid the rafters, but blow the insulation right on top of them to prevent heat from entering around the cracks between the rafters.

3. Place a paper or polyethylene vapor barrier on top of all of the insulation. This prevents the insulation from getting damp from vapors that meet inside the insulation, which causes condensation. Wet insulation can become moldy and won't perform as well. Use reflective insulation tape to hold the plastic down over the surface of the insulation.

4. Check the insulation levels every few years. Insulation will settle over time, and additional insulation should be added to keep the attic insulated between R-30 and R-38. Less insulation will let too much heat inside the house, causing cooling bills to increase drastically.

Tips & Warnings

• Have a friend feed the cellulose insulation into the blower's hopper as you blow insulation into the attic. This prevents you from having to run down from the attic when the hopper is emptied.

• Install the insulation during the early spring, late fall or winter. Do not attempt to install insulation when temperatures rise above 80 degrees Fahrenheit. You can risk heat stroke working in a poorly ventilated hot attic. Even during other seasons, it is important to drink plenty of water to stay hydrated.

• Wear work gloves, a dust mask and safety goggles as you work to protect your eyes, hands and mouth from dust and splinters.

References

• This Old House: How to Insulate an Attic
• Energy Texas: Energy Saving Tips
• University of Massachusetts: Cellulose Insulation