Fiberglass Attic Insulation

Before you jump into your attic insulation project, there's some key information to take into account. One of the biggest benefits of insulating your attic is thermal performance. It can help enhance the comfort of your home. So how do you make sure you’re getting the maximum benefits? Install insulation with the proper R-value. 

How Do You Figure Out R-Value?

R-value refers to the insulation’s ability to resist heat flow. The greater the R-value the greater the insulating performance. R-value requirements are different based on your location. Colder climates will typically require a higher R-value for even greater thermal resistance. Use the energy code map to help determine R-value for your region. Learn more about insulation r-value.

Installing Fiberglass Attic Insulation 

First time adding insulation to an attic? Don’t sweat it. We’ll walk you through the steps to help you find the right type of fiberglass attic insulation and the right amount. First, you'll need to determine your R-value. If it’s a new building, simply reference the energy code map.

If the attic is already insulated, you’ll want to check the current R-value. It can be located on a card left by the previous installer, printed on the attic insulation or you can measure it yourself. Take your measuring tape and measure how deep it is. 

• For loose fill, such as EcoFill, multiply the depth by a minimum of R-2.67 per inch.
• For batts, such as EcoBatt, multiply the depth by a minimum of R-3 per inch.

Once determined, subtract the current R-value from your desired R-value, to get the R-value you need to add.

Determining Your Attic Insulation Needs

 

1. Calculate the square footage of the attic you’re insulating. Measure the length and width of the attic, then multiply those numbers to get the total square footage:

   
   Length X Width = Total Square Footage
    

2. Determine what kind of fiberglass attic insulation you want to use — batts, rolls or loose fill. Keep in mind that batts should never be installed over blown-in insulation.
3. Once you know the product you want, you can estimate the amount you’ll need. Divide attic’s square footage by the square footage in each package.

   
   Attic Sq. Ft. ÷ Package Sq. Footage = How Many Packages to Buy

   Be sure to check the R-value on the package to ensure you’re getting the right density.
    
4. When you install, avoid blocking air flow from soffit vents. Note that you may need to install baffles to channel the air flow above insulation.