Adding Insulation To Attic Rafters

Pull down stair or ladder.

Adding insulation to attic rafters.

In part 6 of this series on attic insulation we dealt with proper attic ventilation and how it goes hand in hand with proper insulation. Use a zippered insulated tent to keep the enclosure draft free attic tent at 7 attic cover insulator 120. Like many other building materials insulating spray foams for use on roof rafters and attic surfaces come with advantages and disadvantages. Consider using high density r 30 batts which are as thick as r 25 batts but fit into 2x10 framing.

Achieving greater r values in attics the higher the r value the better the thermal performance of the insulation. In part 7 you ll learn how to insulate the attic rafters. By adding insulation to your attic you ll not only reduce your monthly utility bills but also enjoy improved energy efficiency and greater comfort throughout the year. The relatively costly application for example can also save money by lowering your energy bills and enabling you to add your own insulation with a contractor s help.

Attic hatch or door. Working on your knees in an attic for long periods of time can be very hot and tiring. For instance if the roof has 2 by 6 rafters and you want r 30 insulation which is standard in many communities you can add a 2 by 4 which will give you an 9 inch rafter space. Find your zone on the map and then use the chart to determine the level of insulation you need to properly insulate your attic walls floors and crawlspaces.

By reducing energy. Rafter vents come in 4 foot lengths and 14 1 2 and 22 1 2 inch widths for different rafter spacings. Add weatherstripping around the perimeter and a sweep to the door of a walk up attic. It lowered my heating bill by 150 month but i ve seen some information that i may have made a mistake by cutting off the airflow in my attic.

Rafter vents should be placed in your attic ceiling in between the rafters at the point where your attic ceiling meets your attic floor. Affix rigid foam insulation to the attic side of the hatch or door. However rigid foam insulation must be covered with a fire rated material when used on the interior of a building. Figure the rafter depth needed to provide the desired r value.

Now that you ve air sealed your attic and basement check your attic insulation levels and add more if necessary. You can also add rigid foam insulation under the rafters which adds r value and eliminates thermal bridging through wood rafters.