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How to Install Loose Insulation Without a Blower

Home insulation comes in many forms other than the standard bats or rolls. One form is loose-fill insulation which also consists of fiberglass, but spreads in clumps over the area. This type of insulation is available in bags and typically installs via a blower. However, a blower is not a necessity and homeowners can also spread it by hand. As with all insulation projects, wearing the proper safety gear during installation is critical.

Things You'll Need

  • Goggles
  • Gloves
  • Face mask
  • Long sleeves and pants
  • Bags of loose fill insulation
  • Utility knife
  • Rake or push broom
  • Tape measure or ruler
  • Plywood (optional)
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Instructions

    • 1

      Prepare for the installation by donning all of the proper safety gear, including long pants and sleeves, safety goggles, gloves and a face mask. Fiberglass insulation particles are irritating to the skin and lungs.

    • 2

      Carry the bags of loose-fill insulation up into the attic or other space that you are insulating. Do not cut open the bags while still in the living space or the fiberglass may spill into it.

    • 3

      Walk to one end of the attic or other area and cut open the first bag of loose insulation using a utility knife. Dump the bag of insulation onto the floor, but do it gently so as not to create many airborne particles.

    • 4

      Spread the loose insulation out using a wide-toothed bow rake or a push broom until it is an even layer.

    • 5

      Continue opening and installing additional bags of loose insulation until the insulation is a minimum of 6 inches deep. Check the depth periodically using a tape measure or ruler until achieving the proper depth.

    • 6

      Walk around the attic or other space once all the loose insulation is the proper depth. Inspect all light fixtures, vents, ducts and other openings and rake the insulation back from them by at least 1 foot on all sides to prevent a fire hazard.

    • 7

      Walk to the eaves of the home where the roof slopes downward and rake the insulation back from these areas by at least 12 inches. This allows air circulation from the soffits to flow up into the attic without obstruction.