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Installing Loose-Fill Insulation

Project Overview

Installing Loose-Fill Insulation

Short of tearing off the walls, blow-in, loose-fill insulation is the only way to insulate a house built before the days of adequate insulation. You can buy fiberglass or cellulose loose-fill. Put the insulation in a blower located outside the house and stretch a hose to the area you're insulating. The hose usually has a switch that lets you turn the machine on and off from wherever you're working. Have a helper working outside to refill the blower with insulation.

4 Steps

  1. INSTALL BAFFLE ABOVE EACH VENT
  2. BLOCK OFF EACH VENT
  3. ACCESS BAY AND FILL WITH INSULATION
  4. POUR AND SPREAD INSULATION BY HAND
INSTALL BAFFLE ABOVE EACH VENT

Step 1

INSTALL BAFFLE ABOVE EACH VENT

Prevent the insulation from blocking soffit vents by installing a rigid plastic foam baffle above each vent. If you have a continuous soffit vent, install a baffle in every third space between rafters.

BLOCK OFF EACH VENT

Step 2

BLOCK OFF EACH VENT

Once the baffles are in, block off each vent to prevent it from filling with insulation and causing moisture problems by cutting sections of fiberglass insulation and stuffing them between the joists directly in front of the soffit.

ACCESS BAY AND FILL WITH INSULATION

Step 3

ACCESS BAY AND FILL WITH INSULATION

If the attic has a floor, remove a board to give you access to the bays between the joists. Insert the blower hose the entire length of the bay, and back it out as the space in front of it fills with insulation. (Drill through the floor if it's plywood.) If the attic has no floor, put down pieces of plywood and walk along them as you spray the insulation in place.

POUR AND SPREAD INSULATION BY HAND

Step 4

POUR AND SPREAD INSULATION BY HAND

Pour and spread insulation by hand, especially near electrical fixtures. Electrical codes require that you keep insulation at least 3 inches from heat-producing fixtures, such as recessed ceiling lights. Nail 2x blocking between the joists, positioning it to keep the cellulose away from the fixture.

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Project Details

Skill Level: Beginner

Time: 1 hour

Before you start, read this »

Due to differing conditions, tools, and individual skills, The Home Depot® assumes no responsibility for any damages, injuries suffered, or losses incurred as a result of attempting to replicate any of the home improvement ideas portrayed in this website Before beginning any home improvement project, review it thoroughly to ensure you or your contractor can finish the project and if any doubts or questions remain, consult local experts or authorities. Because codes and regulations vary greatly, you always should check with authorities to ensure that your project complies with all applicable local codes and regulations. Always read and observe all of the safety precautions provided by any tool or equipment manufacturer, and follow all accepted safety procedures.

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