Installing Attic Insulation Baffles

Putting baffles up into your attic is a crucial step in installing attic insulation. Sometimes called rafter vents, baffles provide ventilation and keeps the insulation from blocking air flow through your attic.It is a fairly easy process that will make a world of difference in assisting your insulation and keeping your home protected from rot.

Step 1 – Get The Lay Of The Land 

Assess the situation in your attic. Is there old insulation that is going to be removed? Are all the rafters exposed or is there drywall up? If you will be working around any insulation it is important to wear your safety gear (goggles, gloves, dust mask and coveralls) to prevent irritation to your skin and eyes. If your roof rafters have been covered over with dry wall or plywood, you must remove it to install the baffles.

Step 2 – In the Bay

Pull any existing insulation away from the edges of the attic, where you will be putting up baffles. You will need a baffle for each space between the rafters or rafter bay. Fit them snug in the bay, with the bottom starting where the ceiling joist meets the roof rafter. Staple the edges on them into place with the staple gun, making sure they are lined up correctly and secure. Be careful of any roofing nails that may but sticking out of the rafters or bay.

Step 3 – A Vented Home Is a Happy Home

After you have installed every baffle, push the existing insulation back into place, or lay your new insulation. Be sure to check that the baffles keep it from butting up against the rafter bays, or you will not receive the ventilation you are looking for. Check again to make sure each baffle is secure and that no insulation has gotten into any of them, blocking up ventilation.

An attic needs to be insulated to keep your house warm in the colder months and cool in the warmer months. Unfortunately, some people do not know that an insulated attic also needs baffles to allow the house to breath. Without them, humidity and moisture can build up in the top of your home, causing all sorts of problems from mold to decay. Installing baffles does not have to be a difficult task. Really, it’s just one small extra step to make sure you home is insulated properly. Be sure to check your baffles yearly, for damage or cracks. Replace any damaged baffles as you find them. Having them is working order will ensure your home remains protected from moisture and rot.