6 Tips for Installing Fiberglass Insulation In Your Walls
Fiberglass insulation is widely used to regulate temperatures and sound in homes. It consists of extremely fine strands of glass. The material is excellent in heat and sound entrapment. The non-combustible and non-absorbent properties of fiberglass make it a cost-effective and practical solution for residential insulation purposes. When you insulate with fiberglass, you can enjoy a quieter and cleaner home. Fiberglass batts are used for insulation of walls. These consist of long panel-like forms which you fit into the studs or frames on your walls. Knowledge of a few tips can help you insulate with fiberglass more efficiently.
1. Tools
Fortunately, you don’t require highly specialized tools to help you undertake insulation properly. A utility knife, putty knife, straightedge, staple gun and tape measure are sufficient for you to get the job done. Be sure to have plenty of sharp blades for the utility knife. Sharp blades enable you to cut more accurately.
2. Batt Measurements
Purchase batts that will give you the desired efficacy in insulation. This is termed as the R-value. A higher R-value requires thicker insulation while a low R-value uses thinner insulation. If your wall frames measure 2 by 4, purchase batts that are 3 ½ inches thick and have an R-11 or R-13 value. For 2 by 6 frames, it is best to use batts that are 4 ½ inches thick with an R-19 value. Generally, interior walls use batts with an R-11 to R-13 value while exterior walls use batts with an R-19 to R-21 value.
3. Fitting
The key to effective wall insulation with fiberglass is firm placement. However, do not compress the insulation as it lowers efficiency. Instead, leave a ½ inch allowance for length and width when you cut the batts to enable a tight fit into the studs. Be sure to ft the batts in snugly at edges and corners. When the batts fit tightly in the stud cavities, it eliminates voids and gaps, which enhances insulation.
4. Electric Cables and Pipes
It is best to encapsulate electrical cables and boxes. You need to split the batt into 2 from top to bottom so that it fits around electrical cables. Place one half behind the cable and another half on top of the cable. Be careful not to cut through the wires. If you do not split the batts to cover electric cables at the back and front, you’ll end up with voids in your insulation. When you encounter electrical boxes, trim the insulation so that it goes around the box with a snug fit. The same principle should be applied if you encounter plumbing pipes in the wall.
5. Windows and Doors
Do not overlook insulation of windows and doors as you insulate your walls. Cut thin strips of insulation and fill the gaps between the frame and opening of the window or door. However, do not pack in the insulation too tightly as it lowers efficiency and may bulge the frame. Fill in the gap snugly.
6. Vapor Barrier
It is a good idea to install a vapor retarder for unfaced insulation. This blocks the escape of water vapor in the room through the insulated walls. It may consist of some polythene sheeting that you drape over the walls once you’ve installed the fiberglass. Allow an overlap of 1 foot. Staple the sheeting to the frames and cut to fit securely along the wall surface.