The Elrod, Alabama attic in American homes has very little insulation, allowing warm air to move easily between attic space and living rooms. Adding insulation can drastically reduce energy costs. However, many homeowners are hesitant to tackle this project because they believe it’s too hard or labor intensive. Fortunately, with proper planning and execution, this can be a very do-able DIY project that should take about a day to complete, contingent on your attic size and pre-existing insulation material.
If you decide to add loose-fill insulation (cellulose or fiberglass) to your attic, make sure to gear up with personal protective equipment before starting. This includes long sleeves and pants, a dust mask, eye protection, and a hard hat. You will also need a blower, which is available for rent at most home improvement stores.
Ensure that your attic is properly ventilated before beginning the process, and remove any debris or other objects that could get in the way. Check the attic’s existing level of insulation (if possible), and use this information to determine how much blown-in insulation to purchase. Refer to the manufacturer’s bag instructions for how to calculate this number.
In addition to insulating the attic floor, you should seal any penetrations in the attic such as vents, wires, ducts, and light fixtures. These gaps allow warm air to seep into the attic and cause heat buildup, which can damage shingles and lead to ice dams on the roof. These areas can be sealed with spray foam or fire-rated caulk.
Bryars Spray Foam
Elrod, Alabama (Service area type of client)
(205) 576-5009