How to Glue Insulation

Generally, rigid-foam insulation fits tight enough between two wall studs that there is no need to glue it in place. However, this is not always the case. Insulation not resting snug against the wall creates an air pocket in which cold air can enter. A construction adhesive applied to the insulation's back side holds it in place without ruining the insulation's integrity, like nails or screws would.

Tape measure
Straight edge
Utility knife
Construction adhesive
Caulk gun

Instructions

- 1
  Measure the height of the wall cavity, from bottom plate (the board underneath the wall studs) to top plate (the board above the wall studs).
- 2
  Transfer the measurement from Step 1 to a piece of rigid-foam insulation. Make two measurement marks, one on the insulation's right edge and one on the left edge. Hold a straight edge, such as a level, along the two marks.
- 3
  Cut the rigid-foam insulation along the straight edge with a utility knife. Flip the insulation upside down. Insert a tube of construction adhesive into a caulk gun and cut off the tip with the utility knife.
- 4
  Apply two continuous beads of adhesive down the length of the rigid-foam insulation. Keep the beads about 3 inches from the insulation's edges. Position the insulation in front of the wall cavity and push it firmly in place. It will take at least 24 hours for the construction adhesive to fully adhere the foam insulation to the wall.

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