If you are thinking about re-insulating your attic, or just simply adding to your existing insulation there are some easy to follow steps that can make the job feasible for most DIYers. Tackling this type of job is not for the faint of heart. You should give yourself at least two days to complete the project. If you are able to complete the task yourself you will save yourself about $1,000 in labor cost alone. The added benefit will be the savings that you see in your heating and cooling costs.
You may also qualify for a federal tax credit for qualified energy related home improvements. The tax credit is for 30% of the cost of the materials only, with a maximum credit of $1,500 per house as long as it is your primary residence.
The key to insulating your home properly is to make sure that you seal all of your attics bypasses. You should spray expanding foam into all of the holes coming into, and going out of your attic. If the hole is less that ¼ inch then you should use caulk. Be sure to take your time and seal every crevice. Your attention to detail here will give you the best final result.
Check your attic for vent chutes. In 95% of homes most are missing or if they are present they are blocked. Vent chutes are installed against the underside of your roof between your joists. They should extend 6 inches into the overhang. Vents chutes allow air to properly move from the eves of your house to your attic. Proper air flow is necessary to remove moisture and heat from your home.
Another offender of energy loss is the access panel to your attic. You want to make sure that you have sufficient insulation on top of the access panel and around it. One trick is to double up a patch of traditional fiberglass batting. Make sure that the patch that you create extends at least 2 inches beyond all sides of your access panel. Secure the newly created patch with duct tape to the top of the access panel.
When it comes to insulation more is not necessarily better. Once you know the amount of cellulose that you are going to need, be sure that you mark the desired fill level on several trusses. Spraying the cellulose may cover some of your marks. For the actual application of the cellulose follow the instructions on the back of the cellulose bags and the user’s guide on the blower machine.
Most home centers will allow you to borrow a cellulose blower if you purchase 10 or more bags. You will also want to pick up an air mask. Cellulose is environmental friendly and less expensive than traditional fiberglass insulation; it is also easier on your skin and lungs.
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