If you’re aiming for a more eco-friendly method for your attic and roof repair project, we suggest installing loose-fill insulation, which is extremely effective when installed properly and is available in a few different options such as fiberglass, cellulose and mineral wool.
Fiberglass consists of almost a third of recycled glass that’s spun into fibers. Cellulose is made from recycled, shredded newsprint and boxes that are chemically treated for fire and mold resistance. Mineral wool is made from slag and rocks that are recycled from industrial waste.
These loose-fill insulation materials can help improve the energy efficiency of a home, decrease energy consumption and lower the rate of fossil fuel burning and carbon dioxide emissions. In order to take advantage of these benefits, you need to do more than just follow the manufacturers’ installation guidelines. Here’s what you need to do:
Appropriate Placement
The reason why loose-fill insulation works well in attics is because it’s the most cost-effective place to install a large amount of insulation. When covering a large area, you need to be careful not to block ventilation and to keep insulation at least three inches away from ceiling fixtures. Install baffles above the soffit vents and block off soffits to prevent moisture and mold from accumulating. Also, make sure your ductwork is properly sealed to prevent insulation from circulating into your home.
No Gaps or Fluffing
If the insulation on your roof repair project isn’t installed at the right density, voids and gaps can form and decrease the R-value. Fluffing also weakens the effectiveness of insulation. When insulation is fluffed, it’s installed to minimum thickness but not to minimum weight requirements. This allows air and heat to pass through it.
Correct R-value
A loose-fill insulation material’s thermal resistance is measured by its R-value. Since each of these materials has a different R-value, you’ll need to install them at different densities in order to achieve an adequate level of insulation. You’ll also need to adjust for the amount of settling that occurs over time, which affects the installed R-value as well. For instance, cellulose loses 20% of its R-value, so you should add 20% more in an attic during installation. As for wool and fiberglass, the settling percentage is minimal, so you won’t have to worry about this anytime soon.
When you need an expert roof repair and attic installation contractor, consider hiring A&A Services Home Improvement. Call us today at (978) 741-0424 or you can also contact us by filling out our convenient online form. We serve Salem, Peabody, Andover, and nearby areas.
