Insulation installation can be a difficult process, depending on the size of your home, type of construction, design and the desired results. Therefore, if you are interested in upgrading your insulation, you should engage a contractor to handle the placement of the material. However, it is not impossible to install insulation as a DIY project if the work is not extensive. If you are planning on taking up this home improvement task personally, you should use the following tips to avoid making common mistakes.
Purchase the Right Insulation
You should choose the correct insulation for your application. In simple terms, you should not assume that every type of insulation can be used anywhere in the house. If you choose the wrong material, you will experience issues such as inefficiencies and safety hazards. It is important to evaluate different types of insulation on the market and make a thorough comparison before making your decision. For instance, if an insulation product is indicated as highly flammable, you should avoid purchasing it for use around your water heater. In addition, you should not use fibrous material in high humidity environments because it will hold moisture and rot.
Avoid Removing the Backing
You should not remove the backing material placed on the outer surfaces of your insulation before installation. This backing is known as the vapour barrier, and it is crucial to the reliable performance of the insulation. The wrapping will prevent the absorption of moisture by the insulating fibres. As a result, there will be minimal risk of the insulation rotting prematurely. You should check the instructions to determine the right orientation for insulation placement in relation to the backing before installation. In general, the backing should be placed against the wall to prevent the accumulation of condensation in the house.
Eliminate Gaps in Insulation
You should ensure that the insulation in your house is packed as closely as possible. Often, DIY enthusiasts without experience in the installation of the material leave significant gaps between the batts, blankets or panels. These gaps might not seem large, but they will allow the flow of heat and air across the walls or other structures. As a result, the benefits of the insulation will decline. You can avoid the energy losses by ensuring that your insulation is tightly packed. If you notice some gaps after finishing installation, you should use caulking or spray foam to seal the areas.
Contact an insulation contractor to learn more about insulation installation.
