Attic Insulation Old

This old house general contractor tom silva explains the wide world of spray foam insulation how to install insulation learn how to beef up your wall s weather protection in 4 easy steps.

Attic insulation old.

But just because your insulation is old doesn t mean it is dangerous. Once you ve decided which type is best for you examine the material options and prices to home in on the right product. Proper attic insulation is the best way to prevent heat loss in the winter and retain cool air in the summer. Rigid insulation is extruded into board form and is often made of plastic.

One of the most common materials containing asbestos fibers is attic and wall insulation. Loose fill or batt the common term for blanket insulation. Batt insulation can be added to the underside of the roof between rafters and a layer of batt or loose insulation can be added over the attic flooring. Increase your r value by layering insulation.

They sport insulation values of approximately r 6 5 and r 3 6 per inch respectively. Radiant barriers which are usually installed in the attic have aluminum foil backing to prevent heat from radiating through. Cold areas require a higher r value like an r 49. Spray foam offers the best attic insulation performance available.

Both can be added to uninsulated attics or layered over existing material. Foam insulation is sprayed into place and expands to fill the cavity. When installed properly both types of insulation fill all of the nooks and crannies in a space and. Signs that your attic insulation is subpar include drafts uneven temperatures between rooms high heating cooling bills and ice dams in the winter i e those pretty icicles that hang from the.

In older homes specifically asbestos may be found in many different materials from pipe insulation to flooring adhesive to roof shingles. Closed cell and open cell aka 2 pound and pound respectively. So it s time to pay close attention to what s happening up there. For diy attic insulation you ve got two choices.

Layer more insulation over the old for more effectiveness. The format of house insulation you need depends on where you put it and if you need to control moisture.