When it comes to insulating your attic, air sealing and adequate ventilation are essential for a healthy, fresh air flow that prevents air toxicity or building pollution from reaching dangerous levels. One of the most common mistakes homeowners make is introducing insulation deep into tight spaces where roof beams reach all the way to the top of exterior walls. To protect these vents, install a polystyrene deflector in the attic between each pair of beams. Position the baffles so that they prevent the insulation from covering the vents, and then attach each baffle to the bottom of the roof covering with 1/4-inch-long staples.
Adding insulation to the attic floor is probably the easiest and most affordable way to heat the attic. If the attic does not have insulation, place rolls or fiberglass blocks lined with aluminum foil or Kraft paper between all the beams on the attic floor (which are also the ceiling beams of the rooms below). To ensure that your insulation team can access the attic safely, make sure to provide them with a clear path from the front door. Once your attic is insulated, it will look and smell like new, and the new insulation won't be affected by existing dirt, debris, or pests.
To further increase the insulating value of the attic, place an uncoated fiberglass or mineral wool insulation on top, perpendicular to the beams. The insulation must be cut to fit tightly, but not compressed so much as to expel air trapped inside. If you currently have insulation between the joists of your attic floor, you can dramatically improve your home's energy efficiency by adding more insulation over it. Low levels of insulation in the attic and air leaks mean that air conditioning and heating systems have to work harder, wasting energy and causing household discomfort during summer and winter. The government resource, Attic Air Sealing, has detailed information and guidelines for whether sealing the attic is a DIY job or if it's worth hiring professionals. Upon completion of the work, make sure that you receive documentation showing how much insulation has been added and what the new R-value of insulation is for your attic. These tips for tidying up aren't meant to make it appear that home improvement works can generate dust, and installing attic insulation is no exception.
There is no better time than when the attic is empty and before the new insulation is installed so that everything is in perfect condition.
