How to Insulate Walls in an Existing Home

Builder outfit the walls of modern homes with insulation prior to drywalling, so the homes will be more energy efficient. In many older homes, though, this wasn't done. Insulating a wall in an existing home needs you to rip the wall open to bare studs, install fiberglass insulation and re-drywall. Alternatively you couldblow in loose insulation through holes in the top of the wall. Obviously, the second approach is a lot easier. It still requires some wall repair and repainting.

Electronic stud-finder
Insulation blower with hose
Pencil
Drill with hole saw bit (slightly wider than the end of the blower hose)
Loose insulation
Drywall tape (mesh self-adhesive)
Drywall knife
Plaster
Drywall sandpaper

Instructions

- 1
  Use an electronic stud finder to find each stud in the wall. Mark a small X midway between each stud, about 6 inches down from the ceiling.
- 2
  Cut out holes at each mark, using your drill and hole saw bit. Save cutout circles.
- 3
  Fill the insulation blower with loose cellulose insulation. Thread the hose into the first hole. Push it all the way in, so the end of the hose goes to the bottom of the interior of the wall.
- 4
  Run the machine, filling the space between the first two studs. Pull out the hose gradually as the insulation fills the space and the hose is completely withdrawn. Repeat for each hole.
- 5
  Press one of the cutout circles into the first hole. Cover the circle with drywall tape. Spread plaster over the tape with a drywall knife, getting it flat and smooth. Repeat for each hole.
- 6
  Let the plaster dry for six hours. Spread on a second layer of plaster. Let it dry for 12 hours.
- 7
  Sand the dried plaster smooth with drywall sandpaper. Repaint the wall.

Do it Yourself Home Insulation

Radiant Heat Options

Energy Efficient Homes