Old House Roof Insulation

You have many choices for your insulation batting.

Old house roof insulation.

If you live in a warm climate you require a lower r value. Increase your r value by layering insulation. Wood can wet without issue but keep it wet and then the problems arise. Caulk window trim and use weatherstripping to reduce air leaks.

Measure the size of the roof rafters. Here are just a few of the highlights. In most climates it needs a vapor barrier. For most of the us the doe s standard is r 38.

Like other batt type insulation fiberglass has a predictable r value if not compressed but is difficult to fit around obstacles without leaving gaps. Adding insulation where it was never designed to go mainly the walls of an old house causes a host of problems all due to the moisture issues it creates. The attic is often the easiest place to add insulation. Just because you find insulation in one wall doesn t mean that it s everywhere in the house.

Place a new layer of unfaced batts perpendicular to the old layer to cover any gaps in the lower layer. Maximize attic insulation this is simple and not particularly unique to older homes but it s also the easiest and least expensive energy upgrade you can do. Even if you bought the house with insulation already installed into it it s best to double check. Your area may have a different standard so be sure to check first.

One way to insulate walls of an old house is to focus on the home s exterior. The insulation materials used in older houses are not as effective in keeping heat in as the new ones. If you have an unfinished and unconditioned attic like many old houses my first recommendation would be to add batt insulation on the underside of the roof. Layer more insulation over the old for more effectiveness.

Replace old windows with energy efficient units. The bigger they are the thicker the insulation you can fit. Cold areas require a higher r value like an r 49. Install siding over the insulation.

Apply a house wrap vapor barrier to exterior walls. This old house general contractor tom silva shows how he installs roofing and siding to keep a house buttoned up and dry. You can buy them unfaced or simply remove the paper or foil backing. Check outlets on all floors as well as old and new parts of your house.

Always use unfaced batts both when laying product for the first time and to prevent moisture from becoming trapped between new and old layers of insulation. Old house insulation strategy 1. Fiberglass batts the insulation found in most houses in the u s are inexpensive and quick to install. The format of house insulation you need depends on where you put it and if you need to control moisture.

Are they 2 6 2 8 or bigger. The insulation must meet doe standards. Pull out a small amount of insulation if needed to help determine the type of insulation. Attach 1 inch foam board insulation.