Installing Attic Insulation

Measure the size of your attic space using a measuring tape. Then, purchase the correct amount of fiberglass insulation you need based on this measurement. Also, make sure your insulation is an appropriate R-value--the measure of its resistance to heat flow, with a higher value pointing to greater effectiveness--for your particular climate and type of home heating system. For example, a ceiling insulation R-value of about 38 should be suitable if you live in a warm climate, while an R-value of 49 is better if you live in a cold climate.

Don protective clothing such as work gloves, safety glasses and a dust respirator to minimize throat irritation during your attic insulation project. In addition, wear a loose long-sleeved shirt, long pants and a hat. Make sure you also have a work light before going up into your attic.

Put plywood across the joists in your attic so that you will have an area to stand while installing insulation in the attic. Place your work light on the plywood so that it illuminates your work area well.

Place batts of un-faced fiberglass insulation into the attic by laying them between the ceiling joists, and attach the edges of the insulation to the joists using a staple gun. Start on the outer edge of the attic and go toward the center. Use a utility knife to cut pieces of insulation that will fit the particular areas on which you are working. Fill the joist cavities as full as possible as you lay the insulation, and keep leftover pieces for smaller areas.

Place another layer of insulation in the perpendicular direction of the attic joists, and then lay the insulation up to the roof rafters at the perimeter of the attic. Make sure you do not cover the eave vents, which could cause airflow issues.

Check to see that the insulation batts are pressed tightly together at all edge and end joints. Also confirm that the insulation is 3 inches away from all lighting fixtures and metal chimneys to prevent fire hazards. Close all other small openings with pieces of un-faced insulation, and tuck them in using a putty knife. In addition, make sure you keep the insulation away from any plywood roof sheathing to allow for proper attic ventilation.