Attic Insulation

Insulating an attic properly is one of the most significant conservation measures you can make. An under-insulated attic provides an easy escape route for heated air and can cost you hundreds of dollars in wasted fuel in a single winter.

Insulation Conservation Tips

Follow these tips to ensure that your home is properly insulated and is not "leaking money":

1. Air-seal your attic before you insulate.
2. Make sure that your home has sufficient insulation in the walls, ceilings and floors. For homes in Virginia, the federal Energy Star® program recommends R38 to R60 insulation in ceilings, R38 in walls, and R25 to R30 under floors.
3. Use higher density insulation, such as rigid foam boards, in cathedral ceilings and on exterior walls.
4. Install attic vents to control moisture and keep the attic cooler in the hot months.
5. Do not place insulation over the top of recessed light fixtures unless they are marked IC, which means they are designed for direct insulation contact.
6. Do not over-pack insulation in any tight spaces. It insulates most effectively when not compacted.
7. If you use blown-in insulation in your attic, use baffles to prevent blockage of air vents that provide vital air circulation.
8. If you use blown-in insulation in your attic, make sure it is evenly distributed, with no low spots.
9. Be sure to insulate and weather-strip the door or panel covering the attic opening.
10. Consider insulating other important areas, such as walls and floors over unheated spaces. You can also install new doors and windows that improve insulation.

For more information, please contact us.