Do it Yourself Insulation: Methods and Materials

Deciding on what type of insulation you would like to install in your home can sometimes be exasperating; some types have a lower R-value, so you may need to purchase more of it to get the proper cost savings out of it. Also to consider is what location the insulation will be installed at in the home; different locations can actually have an effect on the R-value, so you may find yourself actually purchasing insulation made from different materials for certain parts of your home. Finally, whether the home is under construction or finished should be considered; some insulation can be sprayed and is easier to do so if you don’t have to work around contractors who might still have to work in the walls.

If the home is under construction, or has rooms undergoing detailed remodeling, then the easiest and cleanest type of insulation to install is in the form of a blanket, also known as batts or rolls. Many people will recognize this style as “the pink stuff” seen often on T.V. commercials although colors will vary depending on the materials.

Installation of blanket insulation is quick and easy. Generally the batts conform to industry standards so that the width matches the space between uprights in a wall. Some custom cutting will be required to go around pipes, wires, and secondary uprights or cross members. However, you’ll find that most of the work can be done by just measuring the height of the wall and cutting the insulation. Then, using an industrial stapler, simply apply the insulation to the wall.

Blanket insulation can be manufactured from a variety of materials: slag wool, rock wool, fiberglass, cotton, and cellulose. Blown or sprayed insulation can be made of these and also foam.

Blown insulation is beneficial for a finished wall and only requires a hole to be drilled then applied via a machine attached to a hose. This method is effective because the insulation will flow around pipes and wires but may leave some air pockets, affecting your R-value and also your future energy cost savings. Spray-foam insulation is particularly effective since it will fill every nook and cranny in the wall and will not form air pockets.

Blanket insulation can be applied by any do-it-yourself minded person as can blown insulation; the machines and safety equipment are easily obtainable. Spray-foam however, requires a licensed contractor.