Old House Attic Insulation Types

The type of insulation you need depends on which type is currently installed and the required r value.

Old house attic insulation types.

Loose fill or batt the common term for blanket insulation. It s available in fiberglass mineral wool plastic fibers and natural fibers. Fiberglass batts cellulose loose fill fiberglass and spray foam. More options exist but these four materials make up the vast majority of installations in minnesota attics where i operate.

Insulation types include loose fill batts rolls foam board spray board and vapor barriers. Fiberglass insulation fiberglass batts the insulation found in most houses in the u s are inexpensive and quick to install. Once you ve decided which type is best for you examine the material options and prices to home in on the right product. Older types of insulation include loose fill or batt fiberglass which can be pink yellow or white.

First let s discuss the most common types of insulation available for attics. In most climates it needs a vapor barrier. The particles of the insulation have an accordion like texture. While this type is often still used older insulation may be discolored or torn and is therefore less effective.

Asbestos free insulation materials contains our complete list. Both can be added to uninsulated attics or layered over existing material. For diy attic insulation you ve got two choices. Here are some guidelines.

Blanket insulation is available as batts or rolls and is the easiest diy insulation material. To keep the ventilation space clear above soffit vents special baffles need to be installed before the insulation goes in. If the insulation is wool like and gray it may be loose fill rockwool. If the insulation lays flat.

Article index to types of building insulation. Like other batt type insulation fiberglass has a predictable r value if not compressed but is difficult to fit around obstacles without leaving gaps. Some homeowners also take the time to build walkways and or storage platforms in the attic prior to installing insulation. The most common insulation materials are fiberglass cellulose and foam.

In most cases the best type of attic insulation will be blown fiberglass or blown cellulose insulation. If it is white however it may be a newer product. If your home was built before 1990 chances are you have one of the old attic insulation types.