Attic Insulation Over Blown In

The higher the r value the better the thermal performance of the insulation.

Attic insulation over blown in.

Batt and roll insulation works well between joist and stud spaces or if you have a wide open space or a crawlspace. We offer our review of the three most popular types of attic insulation with a look at each one s pros and cons. Blown in spray foam batts and blankets. Blown in cellulose has a higher r rating and is less expensive than either blown insulation like fiberglass attic insulation or fiberglass batts.

See install batt and roll insulation for details. Cellulose blown in ceiling insulation is a good choice for diyers. Loose fill or batt the common term for blanket insulation. Click the button to calculate the depth in inches and pounds of total insulation required for this job.

Your options for attic insulation range from radiant barriers to sheets of mineral wool but most homeowners stick with products made from cellulose or fiberglass. The table below shows what levels of insulation are cost effective for different climates and locations in the home. Once you ve decided which type is best for you examine the material options and prices to home in on the right product. Loose fill blown in insulation is best for tight spaces or if your attic already has a layer of insulation.

In a cooling climate a good blanket of attic insulation helps keep the house cooler and reduces the load on air conditioning equipment. The higher the r value the better the thermal performance of the insulation. Blown in cellulose is an environmentally friendly material made from recycled newspaper so it s easier on your skin and lungs. Add the right kind of insulation.

Faced insulation should not be placed on top of existing insulation in the attic. R value is a measure of insulation s ability to resist heat traveling through it. A bag of cellulose runs about 11 50 and will cover 36 7 square feet at a. Insulation level are specified by r value.

Both can be added to uninsulated attics or layered over existing material. Most attics are insulated with blown in loose cellulose r 3 5 per inch blown in loose fiberglass r 2 5 per inch or fiberglass batts r 3 2 per inch. Cellulose insulation has an average thermal value of r 3 7 so you d need just over five inches to equal an r 19 batt. Any new batt or roll insulation installed over existing insulation in the attic needs to be without a vapor retarder face.

For diy attic insulation you ve got two choices. Input length width and desired r value of the area to be insulated. When adding additional insulation you do not have to use the same type of insulation that currently exists in your. Batt and roll insulation and loose fill sometimes known as blown in insulation.

This calculator is to be used as an estimating tool only.