Home Turned Green

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 insulation guide to help with your project.

Attic Insulation Installation

The Department of Energy recommends you have at least 15.5 inches of insulation on your attic floor. Use this insulation installation guide to add additional insulation or to insulate a newly built home.

If your attic does not already have insulation, use a product with a vapor retard. Use unfaced insulation when adding on top of other insulation in order to avoid a buildup of moister between layers.

First, fill the joist cavities with insulation. Always leave at least three inches of space between the insulation and any devices that produce heat. 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.

The attic access hatch is small, but a major source of heat loss. Once you have completed a do it yourself insulation of the attic floor, it is time to add an attic stairway insulation kit. These products are easy to install and usually come fully assembled.

Installing Insulation on Window

For this do it yourself insulation installation 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. Now, 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 the double sided tape included in your kit around the window and then remove the backing of the tape.

Start applying the plastic sheet in the middle and spread out to the sides. Do not worry if the plastic sheet is not tight. Use the 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

In a conditioned basement, only the walls need to be insulated. 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 lengths of your door sides, then cut weather stripping at appropriate lengths as directed. 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.