Insulating Old Roof Rafters

Install ventilation baffles into the space between the rafters before you install the insulation usually by stapling into place.

Insulating old roof rafters.

This old house recommends not depending on your attic floor space to be an extra storage space. Https youtu be w4mkphzmqxw contact us restorat. Check here for energy star recommendations. Box out light fixtures.

Roof insulation refers to the practice of installing insulation on the roof slope both above and below the rafters. Insulating between rafters will do no good because the attic should be ventilated and the rafter insulation would be between two unheated spaces. If you have a solid floor covering the roof rafters use the claw end of a hammer to pull the floor up in several locations and blow the insulation under the boards. For rolled insulation place it between roof rafters.

Ceiling insulation refers to any type of insulation installed within the floor nearest to the roof structure of the home. Depending on your climate an r value between 38 and 60 is optimal. Batts in the rafters. Once air leaks have been addressed you can add insulation.

The resulting buildup of moisture can soak the insulation nullifying its r value foster the growth of mold or even rot the framing. 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. What to look out for when insulating roofs on old properties shallow rafters less than 75mm limit the depth of insulation that can be accommodated and if there happens to be a lath and plaster ceiling then forcing it into the rafter space might damage the ceiling below. Check out our how to video at the link below.

Time to get the insulation finished and get this place warm. Unless you re using mineral wool insulation or your fixtures are rated safe for contact with any type of insulation don t allow the material to touch or cover recessed cans or lights from the floor below it s a fire hazard. Simply jamming batts between the rafters of a cathedral ceiling or insulated attic will interfere with the roof s ability to breathe. You can add insulation to the floor.

With a warm roof the usual process is to split the insulation into two layers. If your attic is going to be converted into livable space then you will need to insulate the roof rafters.