Insulation is a significant factor in the performance and general health of a structure, and concerning the comfort and well-being of occupants.
Although it goes without saying that wall insulation is a significant consideration in the building process, other areas requiring insulation should not be overlooked.
Ultimately, a structure should be insulated from the roof to the foundation. As such, properly insulating floors and ceilings is crucial to ensure optimal temperature control as well as effective sound absorption. Insulation also has a financial impact – for example, properly insulated homes can save up to 15 percent on heating and cooling costs.
Start the Job with High-Performance Products
Thanks to the work of building scientists and engineers, a variety of high-performance insulation products are available for floor and ceiling applications including InsulPure™, our newest insulation product.
Designed for commercial and residential applications, this evolution of fiberglass batt insulation is UL-validated formaldehyde-free and carries the GREENGUARD® Gold certification – resulting in indoor air quality health benefits that begin at installation and extend throughout the life of the structure.
CertainTeed EasyTouch™ is an excellent option for DIY installation of fiberglass roll insulation, and is easily handled due to its fully encapsulated fiberglass. Its superior acoustic and thermal qualities are particularly well-suited for crawl spaces, the area above unheated garages, and attics.
For areas that may be hard to reach, using a blown-in or loose-fill insulation with a blowing machine like the Bolt™ 3 is an ideal solution.
Installation Considerations
No matter how thermally efficient an insulation product is, it will not function optimally if it is not correctly installed. Following are some best practices from NAIMA (the North American Insulation Manufacturers Association) for installing wall and ceiling insulation.
- Cantilevered Floors – These should be insulated at the floor R-value requirements.
- Attic Openings – The attic opening should be insulated with insulated covers, or a piece of batt insulation at the same R-value as the attic requirements, and secured in place.
- Attic Cards – A completed attic card should be placed near the attic opening when blown-in insulation is installed.
- Attic Rulers – When blown-in insulation is used, it is good practice to install attic rulers – one for every 300 square feet of attic area. The installed thickness of blown-in insulation should not be less than the minimum settled thickness on the attic card.
- Eave Baffles – Baffles should be installed on eaves with vents.
- Knee Walls – Knee walls should be insulated at wall R-value requirements. Insulation should be supported with an appropriately fire-rated backing on the exterior side.
Insulating for Success
Without properly installed insulation, a building’s heating, air conditioning, and ventilation systems will be overly taxed, which can be costly when it comes to both the structure’s health and energy use.
Furthermore, sounds can become distracting without the benefit of noise-dampening insulation. Specifying high-quality insulation and following best practices during the installation process will not only lead to healthier and more comfortable spaces, but also to more satisfied customers.
If you have any questions, we’re always available to assist you. Don’t hesitate to reach out!
