Many homes suffer tremendous energy loss due to insufficient insulation. You do not need to pay thousands for a contractor to bring your utility bills under control. Use this do it yourself guide to help with your home insulation installation project.
Attic Insulation Guide
The Department of Energy recommends you have at least 15.5 inches of insulation on your attic floor. If your attic does not already have insulation, use a product with a vapor retard for the first layer. When adding on top of existing insulation, use an unfaced insulation product.
When installing insulation in the attic, first use roll insulation to fill your joist cavities. Once the joist cavities are filled, add a second layer running perpendicular to the first. Measure your layers to make sure you reach the 15.5 inch minimum. Remember to always leave at least three inches of space between the insulation and any device that produces heat.
The attic access hatch is small, but it is a major source of heat loss. Once you have completed the attic floor, it is time to install an attic stairway insulation kit. These kits are easy to install and usually come fully assembled.
Window Insulation Guide
For this project you will need a window insulation kit, a hair dyer, weatherstripping, and scissors.
First, weatherstripping is added around the exterior perimeter of the window. Next, remove any objects including the window opener that could get in the way of the plastic sheeting. Clean the window with a wet cloth to remove any dust.
Apply double sided tape around the window and then remove the backing of the tape. Start applying the plastic sheet in the middle and spread it out to the sides. Do not worry if the plastic sheet is not completely tight. Use a blow dryer to shrink the plastic for a tight fit around your window. Start on the edges, then work your way to the center. Finally, trim away the excess plastic sheeting.
Basement Insulation Guide
When insulating basement walls, caulk and seal any openings around the rimjoists as well as any openings caused by wires or vents. You will need to use r-13 insulation for basement walls. This product has been designed to fit standard wall cavities. Gently push the insulation product into the air cavity. Do not compress the insulation or you will minimize its effectiveness.
Door Weatherization
Measure the sides of your door, then cut weather stripping at the appropriate lengths. Against the shut door, line the weatherstripping up with your door and mark the screw holes with a pencil. After planning the alignment of all sides, screw in the weatherstripping.
