Insulating unvented attic w/ 2x4 rafters?
- 1. Keep the attic unvented. Seal off the vents, seal any air pockets and then have the underside of the sheathing spray foamed. Open cell or closed cell? ...
- 2. Vent the attic. Drill intake holes in the blocking between the rafters, add rodent mesh, add air baffles, add furring strips to the bottom of the rafters to create necessary depth for high R-value batts. ...
Full Answer
How do you insulate an attic with drywall?
Remove paneling or drywall from the walls and ceiling, apply insulation between the wall studs and rafters and cover new panels or drywall To insulate a finished attic, apply insulation between and over the floor joists and around the attic hatch and ductwork, if any.
How to insulate an attic with an insulation blower?
Keep blowing toward the center of the attic until the entire attic is covered to the correct depth. Renting the insulation blower and transporting it to your house, along with many bags of blown-in insulation, can be a project all by itself.
What type of attic insulation should I use?
For DIY attic insulation, you've got two choices: loose fill or batt (the common term for blanket insulation). Both can be added to uninsulated attics or layered over existing material. Once you've decided which type is best for you, examine the material options and prices to home in on the right product.
How long does it take to insulate an attic?
The operator in the attic shoots the insulation throughout the attic and into the cavities, up to a certain depth. Blown-in insulation requires more preparation time than with batts or rolls. But once the attic is ready, it is possible to cover a medium-size attic space in an hour or two.
Can blow in cellulose be used for heating?
Can you insulate the underside of a roof?
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How do you insulate a 2x4 cathedral ceiling?
5:468:37The Right Way To Insulate: Attics and Cathedral Ceilings with BattsYouTubeStart of suggested clipEnd of suggested clipIf the insulation you're using is thicker than the joist space then you must install baffles overMoreIf the insulation you're using is thicker than the joist space then you must install baffles over the entire length of the roof deck surface to allow for ventilation of the roof.
How do I insulate my attic ceiling?
2:224:06The Right Way to Insulate Attics & Cathedral Ceilings with BattsYouTubeStart of suggested clipEnd of suggested clipIt's best to overlap the facing at the ends to prevent gaps. Keep in mind standard craft facing isMoreIt's best to overlap the facing at the ends to prevent gaps. Keep in mind standard craft facing is flammable.
Should there be insulation on attic ceiling?
Proper attic insulation can also keep your roof in better condition by helping to prevent ice dams and condensation. Your building codes may require you to have a certain quality of insulation. However, installing even better insulation is to your advantage and your roof's advantage.
Should you insulate attic roof rafters?
Insulating between rafters will do no good, because the attic should be ventilated, and the rafter insulation would be between two unheated spaces. You can add insulation to the floor; the more the merrier. Just don't put it in the eaves. Also, make sure the attic is well ventilated.
Is it better to insulate attic ceiling or floor?
roof insulation is no-contest. The floor wins every time. Insulating the floor is standard practice for an unfinished attic space. The exception to this rule takes place when families opt to convert an unfinished attic space into something usable or livable.
How can I insulate my attic cheaply?
0:010:55Here's the Inexpensive Way to Up Your Home's Insulation - YouTubeYouTubeStart of suggested clipEnd of suggested clipJust take an unphased insulation a roll it right on top and that one step there make it home muchMoreJust take an unphased insulation a roll it right on top and that one step there make it home much more energy-efficient.
Should insulation in attic be paper up or down?
Regardless of whether fiberglass insulation is installed in a wall, attic, or crawlspace; the paper facing should always face toward the inside of the home. That's because the paper contains a layer of asphalt adhesive which prevents water vapor from passing through it.
Do you need a vapor barrier when insulating an attic?
Fiberglass Insulation In most climates, it needs a vapor barrier. Some builders rely on batts with attached kraft-paper facing to do that job, but Tom recommends unfaced batts, covered in plastic with all the seams taped shut.
What is the best way to insulate a ceiling?
1:468:17Owens Corning - Ceiling Batt Insulation - YouTubeYouTubeStart of suggested clipEnd of suggested clipIf local regulations call for stapling of faced insulation. Simply open the flange of the facing.MoreIf local regulations call for stapling of faced insulation. Simply open the flange of the facing. And staple it to the inside of the joist. Or the face of the stud every eight to twelve inches.
Can you have too much insulation in your attic?
It's possible to over-insulate an attic as too much will cause moisture buildup and eventually result in mold. Eventually, adding more insulation leads to diminishing returns in trapping heat as well.
What type of insulation is best for ceilings?
Spray foam insulation is the most effective type, with a maximum R-value of 6.5 per inch.
Is it OK to put plywood over attic insulation?
While you can construct dams around recessed lights that aren't IC-rated to keep insulation away from them, you can't cover them with plywood. Doing so can cause them to overheat. Don't install a moisture barrier on top of the insulation.
Why you shouldn't spray foam your attic?
Because spray foams contain highly reactive chemicals called isocyanates, exposure can cause severe breathing and skin problems.
What is the best type of insulation for an attic?
If you check with the North American Insulation Manufacturers Association, they'll assure you that fiberglass or mineral wool is definitely your best choice for attic insulation.
How thick should attic insulation be?
about 10 to 14 inchesThe recommended level for most attics is to insulate to R-38 or about 10 to 14 inches, depending on insulation type.
Is ceiling insulation the same as attic insulation?
The biggest difference between these two types of insulation is where they are installed. Attic insulation is installed in the ceiling plane, while roof insulation is installed on the roof slope itself, above and below the rafters.
Will insulating attic keep house warmer?
A properly insulated attic can benefit your home in many ways, beside just keeping the home at a comfortable temperature year round. The short answer, yes, insulating the attic is an effective way to keep your home cooler during the summer months.
What is the cheapest way to insulate a ceiling?
Reflective insulation and fiberglass insulation are the cheapest types of insulation at the moment. The cost of the former starts at around $0.60 per square foot together with installation. What is this?
What is the cheapest ceiling insulation?
Reflective insulationWhat is the cheapest ceiling insulation? Reflective insulation is the cheapest insulation, but it's more effective in the roof than ceilings. Bulk insulation such as spray foam or glasswool can be cost-effective options for ceiling cavities.
What do you put in attic to keep house warm?
Install attic insulation with an R-factor of at least 19. This will help keep the hot attic air from heating your living space.
What is the best way to insulate a ceiling?
1:468:17Owens Corning - Ceiling Batt Insulation - YouTubeYouTubeStart of suggested clipEnd of suggested clipIf local regulations call for stapling of faced insulation. Simply open the flange of the facing.MoreIf local regulations call for stapling of faced insulation. Simply open the flange of the facing. And staple it to the inside of the joist. Or the face of the stud every eight to twelve inches.
What type of insulation is best for ceilings?
Spray foam insulation is the most effective type, with a maximum R-value of 6.5 per inch.
Is it better to insulate ceiling or roof?
If you are deciding between insulating the roof deck or the ceiling, Insulating your ceiling should be the priority. Not only is it easier but ceiling insulation is beneficial in a number of ways: Keeps the temperature in the building regulated. Saves on energy costs.
Can you insulate an existing ceiling?
Wet insulation can lead to mold, mildew, or even the rotting of your ceiling or roof rafters.” In fact, you can add new insulation over the existing installation in other areas of your home, not just the attic. And you don't even have to choose the same material used in your existing insulation.
Insulating 2x4 attic ceiling rafters help needed
My friend in Sacramento CA (climate zone 3 has cathedral ceiling recommendations of R22 to R38) is looking to insulation his attic ceiling. The home is in the historic part of Sacramento has was built around 1910. The attic has full 2x4 in. rafters that are as straight and solid as the day they...
Insulating unvented attic w/ 2x4 rafters? - DIY Home Improvement Forum
I just purchased a tudor style house built in 1931 with converted attic space. The finished attic space is not well conditioned and I know that if I don't better insulate I will have to dump enormous amounts of AC into the space this summer to make it livable.
insulating 2x4 rafters - Fine Homebuilding
We’re going to be talking to a contractor this month about a remodel of our upstairs, which is currently one large converted 1/2 story attic. We want to add a […]
Loading and Insulating Old 2x4 Rafters - GreenBuildingAdvisor
Good Day, I’m dealing with a very old, shabby home that was built with 2×4 rafters (~20 inch spacing) and 3/4 tongue & groove roof sheathing. Currently the attic is […]
What type of insulation is used in the attic?
The most common types of attic insulation include blown-in fiberglass, spray foam, batt, structural insulated panels, loose-fill and reflective insulation.
How much heat does attic insulation transfer?
It radiates heat transfer as much as 97%, which is extremely important when you install attic insulation due to the proximity to the sun as a major heat source
Why Choose Prodex To Insulate Your Attic?
We recommend using Prodex to insulate your attic: a new-age, all-in-one insulation solution that provides numerous benefits.
What is the purpose of insulation in the attic?
A finished attic typically has insulation between the ceiling rafters and exterior walls studs, to prevent heat from leaving your home through the roof and walls.
Why is it important to insulate the attic?
Properly insulating your attic can help ensure better temperature and moisture control
How much does it save to insulate your home?
Did you know that properly insulating your home, including your attic, basement and floors, can save 15% of your heating and cooling costs?
What equipment is needed to heat a roof?
Equipment checklist: Reflective tape, utility knife, staple gun. The sun's heat is absorbed by a roof, heating the roof sheathing and causing the underside of the sheathing and the roof framing to radiate downward toward the attic floor.
How long does it take to cover an attic with blow in insulation?
But once the attic is ready, it is possible to cover a medium-size attic space in an hour or two.
What temperature should an attic be?
If the outside temperature is 100 degrees F, it is not uncommon for the attic to reach 140 to 150 degrees F —too hot to safely or comfortably work in the attic. Spring or fall tend to be the best seasons for insulating the attic.
How does cellulose insulation work?
Fiberglass or cellulose loose-fill insulation is run through a blower machine located on the ground level, with a long hose reaching into the attic. The operator in the attic shoots the insulation throughout the attic and into the cavities, up to a certain depth.
What is shielded in the attic?
Shield Uninsulated Areas. Because blown-in insulation covers nearly the entire attic, areas that cannot be covered with insulation should be shielded. This includes recessed lights, vents, exhaust fans, and the attic hatch.
Can you cover an attic with insulation?
Because blown-in insulation covers nearly the entire attic, areas that cannot be covered with insulation should be shielded. This includes recessed lights, vents, exhaust fans, and the attic hatch.
Is blown in insulation good for do it yourself?
Though blown-in insulation offers a slight advantage for do-it-yourselfers, it helps to consider both methods to determine which one is best for you.
Can you reverse a blower to remove insulation?
Insulation blowers typically cannot be reversed to suction out old insulation. Hire a company for this, rent a machine, or remove the old insulation by hand. If the insulation is in good shape, it may not need to be removed. Show Full Article.
Where to hold back insulation from recessed lights in the ceiling?
Hold back insulation from recessed lights in the ceiling beneath the attic floor. Johns Mansville
What is the purpose of insulation in an attic?
In an unfinished attic, the goal of insulation is to keep the rooms below cool in summer and warm in winter. That means insulating the attic floor only—not the walls—and having vents in the roof. With a finished attic, insulation must help keep the attic areas comfortable.
What do you think of when you think of insulation?
When you think of insulation, you may immediately think of your attic —and for good reason. The attic is one of the primary areas of potential heat loss in your home. Here is how to insulate an unfinished attic.
Where is the eave vent on a rafter?
Make sure the eave vents at the bottom of the rafter and the ridge vent or other vents at the top are free of obstructions so air can move freely.
Does batts and blankets insulation need a barrier?
Batts-and-blankets insulation often comes with a vapor-retardant facing, and some varieties of rigid foam insulation need no extra barrier protection. For other types, it is a good idea to install a thin barrier of polyethylene on the underside of the insulation to prevent moisture from compromising your material.
Can you cover recessed lights in the attic?
Caution: Avoid covering recessed lighting or any other heat-generating fixtures when installing insulation in an attic. See the adjoining photograph for the proper method of holding insulation back from these fixtures.
Is the attic insulated?
A finished attic should be insulated much like the rest of the house, with insulation in the walls and ceiling. If your attic is already finished, it probably is at least partially insulated. However, most older attics are under-insulated so it’s a good idea to raise the R-value where possible.
What do you need to support a roof?from greenbuildingadvisor.com
You need to support the existing roof with either collar ties, knee walls or both. That gives you the additional structural support.
Does it matter how fast snow melts for roof load?from greenbuildingadvisor.com
BTW, it doesn't matter how fast the snow melts for roof load -- if it's up there, it's up there.
Can you tie 2x4s together?from greenbuildingadvisor.com
It's also possible to tie 2x4s on to the lower edge of the existing ones to make a sort of DIY I-joist. This is a lesser known way to stiffen beams compared with the more common way of sistering a second one along side the original.
Can you spray foam a rafter?from greenbuildingadvisor.com
You can spray foam the existing rafter space and install batts into the cross strapping. The cross strapping does most of the job of eliminating thermal bridging without having to install rigid above the roof. If you install mineral wool batts, these can also be the thermal barrier for the foam saving you the cost of intumescent coating.
Is a 2x4 knee wall good?from greenbuildingadvisor.com
Assuming they're still in good shape, and there's no water damage, rot, insects, and the original fasteners are intact, and the tongue and groove is still in good shape, a 2x4 knee wall can be a cost effective solution, in terms of load support.
Can you encapsulate HVAC ducts?from greenbuildingadvisor.com
You can encapsulate all your HVAC ducting in a layer of SPF which would address both problems but your would still have to build an air tight mechanical room over your air handler. Depending on the layout of your attic, this could be simper and need less SPF than trying to insulate and condition your whole attic.
Do collar ties help with deflection?from greenbuildingadvisor.com
The ones without any knee walls or collar ties tend to have bent rafters. Collar ties alone seem to do a good enough job to reduce deflection but tend to be in the way if you want to use the attic as storage.
What is low clearance attic?
Low-clearance attics with limited headroom for maneuvering during installation
How to cover gaps in a batt?
Place a new layer of unfaced batts perpendicular to the old layer, to cover any gaps in the lower layer. Adjoining batts should be butted snugly together, but not tight enough to compress them.
How to determine R value of insulation?
Grab a tape measure and a flashlight to see what kind of insulation you already have in the attic and how deep it is. Then use the numbers in the chart at right to estimate its R-value. Pull up and dispose of any material that's compressed, water stained, or moldy—it's useless.
How much is fire block caulk?
Around pipes, wires, exhaust fans, and ducts: Gaps of ¼ inch or less can be sealed with fire-blocking caulk (3M Fire Block Sealant, $6.57 for 10.1 ounces; homedepot.com ); seal larger ones up to ½ inch with fire-blocking spray foam (Great Stuff Fireblock Insulating Foam Sealant, $16 for 16 ounces; amazon.com ).
How to cut batts?
Tip: Use a Chef’s Knife to Cut Batts. Some pros prefer it to utility knives because the large blade easily slices through the thick material. Use a piece of plywood as a cutting surface, and stand on a scrap 24 as a straightedge to guide your cuts.
Where to put vapor barrier?
Whether using loose fill or batts, put the vapor barrier closest to the warm side of your installation, where hot, moist air would get in—facing the house's interior in cold climates (beneath floor insulation) and the attic's interior in hot climates (on top of floor insulation). Some regions don't require a vapor barrier.
When did the federal tax credits for weatherizing your house expire?
Most federal tax credits for weatherizing your house and boosting its energy efficiency expired in 2011. But your state's energy office or local utility may offer product rebates, discounts, or other financial incentives for insulating. See a state-by-state directory of such programs here.
Can blow in cellulose be used for heating?
Look for gaps around light boxes/electrical, fan vents, and those in corners. Unless sealed, you'll lose heating and waste money.
Can you insulate the underside of a roof?
I know this question is a few years old, but another option is to insulate the underside of the roof (and maybe gable ends?) with closed cell spray foam. This is more expensive, but it will convert your attic space into something more comfortable and lessen the importance of air leaks and insulation between the rest of your house and the attic.
