The Method of Installation for Insulation Blankets

Ceilings

• Batt insulation in the ceiling is installed between the structural members of the roof above the ceiling. Unlike batt insulation installed in the walls or floor, this type of insulation does not need any fasteners to hold it in place. When you install batt insulation in the ceiling, lay the insulation out parallel to the rafters so that it completely and snugly fills the space between each rafter without stretching or compressing the blanket. When you reach the eaves of your roof, try to maintain a gap of at least 2 inches between your insulation and the underside of the roof to promote proper ventilation.

Walls

• You have several options for installing batt insulation in wall cavities. Before you begin, cut the insulation so that it matches the length and width of the space between the wall studs. If your insulation has backing, you can attach it to the studs using the flanges. The flange is extra backing material that protrudes along the length of the blanket. Staple the flange to the studs starting at the bottom of each stud and ending at the top. Place the staples close enough that the insulation does not bulge or bend. If your insulation does not have backing, you can use friction to hold it in place. If you choose this method, cut the blanket to the correct size so that it is not compressed but still stays in place.

Flooring

• Batt insulation installed under the floor requires fasteners to hold it in place and a vapor barrier to keep it dry. Insulation is cut to fit the space between the floor joists and is put in place by hand. You can use several types of fasteners to hold your insulation in place. Wire fasteners are thin, springy wires with pointed ends that are slightly longer than the gap between each joist. The wires are wedged between each joist roughly 1 to 2 feet apart so that they bow upwards, holding the insulation in place. Another option is a wire mesh, which is stretched across the underside of the insulation and stapled to the floor joists. You can also support your insulation using nails or staples to hang light wiring across the insulation between the joists.

Considerations

• Fiberglass insulation is a strong skin, eye and lung irritant that can cause serious physical discomfort. Wear gloves, a face mask and protective eye wear while you are handling your insulation. If you need to cut your insulation to fit a specific gap, use a sharp knife to prevent spreading irritating fibers and maintain the effectiveness of your insulation. Using caulk or spray insulation to eliminate any gaps in your blanket insulation will prevent air leaks and make your insulation more effective.