A simple project that will help keep your home cool this summer is topping up your attic insulation. This easy project will reduce your household energy consumption and will save you money on monthly energy bills.
A poorly insulated attic is a primary source of energy loss, forcing your AC unit to work harder than necessary. Most attics are insulated, but many, especially those in older homes, are not insulated adequately enough. Over time, insulation can settle and compact, allowing heat to escape through gaps.
Topping it up is easy. Ideally, you want to aim for a depth of 16 inches of insulation for an overall R-value of 50. When existing insulation is present, simply level existing insulation to the top of the joist. Lay Roxul ComfortBatt on top of joists, running perpendicular to the first or existing layer of insulation. Ensure batts are butted against each other tightly. Fit batts closely to cross joists: cut batt if necessary (this can be done easily with a serrated blade or bread knife) and leave no space between layers. Don't forget to insulate the attic hatch to the same level as the rest of the attic. Apply weather stripping to the edge of the hatch to reduce air leakage. Keep in mind that only IC-rated electrical fixtures can have insulation placed with zero clearance. Follow manufacturer's instructions and local building code to insulate around the chimney.
Insulation begins working the moment it is installed and lasts throughout the life of the building, which means one easy DIY project can provide years of savings.
