How to install cellulose attic insulation - the proper way


Today’s article is going to be about how to install cellulose attic insulation. We’ve already discussed about why cellulose insulation is a better choice than fiberglass insulation - if you haven’t read that article, now is the time to do it ( Types of attic insulation ). Just as a short side note you should know that one of the reasons why insulators prefer cellulose is because it’s made out of recycled newspapers and only has chemicals to make it fire retardant. Besides, cellulose insulation doesn’t cause rashes as the fiberglass one does. So without too much talk let’s get started with today’s article on how to install cellulose attic insulation.

The first thing you’ll want to do is to place some strips of plywood down the length of your attic, these pieces of plywood will serve as a walkway for later on. If you’re planning on leaving some spare space to use for storage remember to place some plywood there as well so you don’t accidentally step through the ceiling.

The second thing you should do is measure the length and width of the attic, the measurements will help you determine what thickness your cellulose insulation should be and how much you need to buy. Using the formula provided on the back of the insulation packages and some simple math calculations you’ll be able to tell how much cellulose insulation you need.

Next, we’ll have to purchase the insulation and some special protection equipment, like dust masks and goggles. After you’ve made all the necessary purchases, head on to a insulation blower rental place and make sure you understand how to use it before even thinking of trying it.

To help prevent the foam from drifting into the house we’ll need to use a cardboard wall around the access door. There isn’t a specific type of cardboard you should be using here any regular cardboard will do.

Next, you’ll have to taple soffit vent chutes on the inside walls of the soffit vent to keep the insulation from blowing out of the attic. Surround the heat ducts and anything else that generates heat with metal flashing to keep the cellulose from getting too hot.
Using the insulation blower start at the farthest corner of the attic and work your way toward the attic access door. Be careful not to step off the plywood walkway at any time and also remember to constantly measure the thickness of the insulation as you go along to make sure it’s installed evenly.

Label Cloud