How Much Insulation Is Needed to Dense Pack?

Types

• Homeowners who wish to add their own insulation to their attics or basements must consider the difficulty in installation. According to the Environmental Protection Agency, or EPA, blanket insulation is the easiest type of insulation for most homeowners to install themselves. This type of insulation comes in batts and rolls and can be packed densely into spaces to provide thermal resistance. Loose-fill insulation is not recommended for do-it-yourself jobs because it requires a special machine to blow the insulation into your home. Settling is another common problem homeowners face when adding loose-fill insulation. Over time, loose-fill insulation will settle and your home will have inadequate amounts of insulation, which may raise your energy costs and make your home uncomfortable.

Amount

• Look at the area you wish to insulate to determine how much is needed for adequate coverage. In your attic, insulation must come over the top of your floor joists for maximum energy efficiency. Add more insulation if it is level with your floor joists or falls below it. Be sure your insulation is thick but not packed too tightly for best results. When adding insulation to your rafters, lay the second layer of insulation perpendicular to the first layer for adequate coverage, according to the EPA. All insulation should be distributed evenly with no low or bare spots visible.

Caution

• Avoid packing insulation too closely to recessed or can lighting, as this practice may result in a fire. All insulation should be at least three inches from light fixtures, unless IC-rated light fixtures are in place. Never lay insulation over your soffit vents, as doing this interferes with proper ventilation.

Considerations

• Before installing insulation in your home, look for gaps where air could be leaking in or out of your home. Air leaks are most noticeable during the cold months and will cause your home to feel drafty and make your insulation less effective. Seal any visible gaps with caulk. Look for areas of your home that may be suffering from moisture damage, as wet insulation is less effective and prone to mold growth. Repair any water leaks that may cause your insulation to become wet.