Does Insulation Go Between the Roof Studs in the Attic?

Unheated Attic

• 1

  Measure the area between the joists, or parallel floor beams, to determine how much insulation you need. Installing batt insulation yourself is easy. Blow-in insulation is better done by a professional.

• 2

  Choose the correct R-value and type of material for your insulation. A colder climate requires a higher R-value. Check with your home improvement center or power company for the correct R-value for your area. Insulation material includes batt insulation, made of mineral wool or fiberglass; expanding foam; and insulation that can be poured, made from a variety of materials.

• 3

  Seal all air leaks from the living space below, because insulation does not prevent airflow.

• 4

  Lay the batt insulation between the joists with the paper or radiant barrier side facing down. Staple the batt insulation to the joists.

• 5

  Insulate the attic hatch or access door by attaching some batt insulation. Alternatively, build an insulated cover box over the horizontal access door.

Conditioned Attic

• 6

  Build boxes or barriers around electrical devices or lights so that they don't come in contact with the insulation.

• 7

  Install rafter vents, also called baffles, if your roof does not have any. You need ventilation between the insulation and the roof to prevent moisture and mold.

• 8

  Staple batting to all rafters and vertical studs, such as those found in knee walls or partitions. If you live in a warm climate, you may want to use batting with a radiant barrier, which will keep the attic cooler in summer.

• 9

  Cover the installed insulation with a vapor barrier, if the batting does not have one. Use polyethylene plastic, paper-backed aluminum, sheet rock or other material. Place the vapor barrier on the side of the insulation facing the air conditioned or heated space.