Proper Insulation Roof Ceiling

Water is insulation s enemy.

Proper insulation roof ceiling. Find your zone on the map and then use the chart to determine the level of insulation you need to properly insulate your attic walls floors and crawlspaces. See the department of energy s doe ranges for recommended levels of insulation below. Look for water stains on the roof sheathing or damp or moldy spots on attic joists and existing insulation as a clue to where leaks might be. Unvented hot roof design cathedral ceilings are also an option.

High density types of fiberglass insulation with more fibers and air spaces per square inch offer r values of up to 4 25 per inch. A vent baffle should be installed between the insulation and the roof decking to maintain the ventilation channel. Typical recommendations for exterior walls are r 13 to r 23 while r 30 r 38 and r 49 are common for ceilings and attic spaces. Proper insulation is the best way to maximize comfort and minimize energy bills.

Insulation level are specified by r value. There s also high density insulation for ceilings and attics. Get the most out of your home with proper roof insulation. But if you re serious about energy savings you can buy better performing products.

The most proper insulation level to use on ceilings are r 30 batts that are as thick as r 25 batts but fit into a 2x10 framing. The hot roof design allows more insulation to be installed in the roof cavity as the need for a vent space is eliminated. The higher the r value the better the thermal performance of the insulation. Some provide r 15 for 2 4 walls and r 21 for 2 6 walls.

If you have an attic there are quick ways to insulate the ceiling from above after drywalling it. Box out light fixtures. It creates a breeding ground for mold and mildew and ruins the air trapping pockets that block heat flow. The table below shows what levels of insulation are cost effective for different climates and locations in the home.

Insulation puts the money back in your pocket by protecting your home from the elements and lowering energy costs. When tom insulates a cathedral ceiling or a finished attic he also turns to foam. Sprayed against the underside of the roof deck it seals against air movement eliminating the need for a vapor barrier or ventilation. How to put insulation in a ceiling before drywall.

For example cathedral ceilings built with 2x12 rafters have space for standard 10 inch batts r 30 and ventilation. If you don t have an attic however there is. R value is a measure of insulation s ability to resist heat traveling through it.