How to Install Batt Insulation in Southern Homes

Put on the long-sleeved shirt, gloves and goggles. While insulation is not toxic, it does embed in the skin and makes it itch. Proper protection is essential when working with insulation.

Insert the batt insulation into the exterior walls with the paper or foil facing toward the living space. Tuck in the batt along its edges so it fills the space completely. Don't shove or squeeze the insulation into place, as this causes it to lose its R-value. The R-value is a result of the trapped air between fibers. While the glass has little to no R-value, the air pockets trapped during the manufacturing process do.

Smooth out the insulation with your gloved hand so that the insulation looks like a fluffy tucked-in bed in the space between studs.

Insert batts into interior walls to aid in insulating the room, as well as adding a sound barrier to the walls. These batts usually do not have facing.

Place foil-faced insulation batts in the bathroom areas. Tuck in the edges and smooth out the surfaces and repeat for the entire home. Confirm the foil faces the bathroom space.

Add the batt insulation into the space between rafters in the attic. The attic is one of the most critical areas in the home for being an energy thief. Hot air rises, and usually right out through the attic.