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What Are the Different Types of Attic Ceiling Insulation?

Troy Holmes
Troy Holmes

Insulation is an important part of any attic renovation. There are several types of attic ceiling insulation to consider when beginning the remodeling project. These range from standard fiberglass and styrofoam insulation to more environmentally friendly solutions, like recycled paper cellulose. Each type of insulation has cost and durability considerations that should be weighed against the goals of the overall attic design.

An attic-remodeling project is a good way to reduce energy bills. Attic ceiling insulation is a great way to save money because it keeps heat inside a home by creating a barrier from cold temperatures. An attic space should use insulation with a high thermal resistance energy rating. This rating defines the amount of energy that is contained inside an insulated wall.

Attic insulation often comes in rolls that must be cut to fit.
Attic insulation often comes in rolls that must be cut to fit.

Ceiling installation helps reduce the energy costs for any home. For ceiling installation, it is important to keep enough space between the layers of installation to allow air to flow between the padding. This prevents condensation and water from building up in the roof joist area.

Fiberglass is a commonly used attic ceiling insulation. This insulation is sold in large bundles that are wrapped into large circles. This type of insulation is installed by simply unrolling the wrapped circles between the trusses of an attic.

Spray foam expands after it is sprayed, making it ideal for attics.
Spray foam expands after it is sprayed, making it ideal for attics.

Another popular attic ceiling insulation is shredded recycled newspaper. This form of insulation is better known as cellulose insulation and requires a blower machine for installation. Cellulose insulation has a thermal value rating comparable to fiberglass and is typically less expensive.

It is a good idea to have a professional install any ceiling insulation. Installing installation is a job that requires care and patience. When installation is installed between the ceiling rafters, the installer needs to be careful not to fall through the ceiling. This is done by carefully balancing on the ceiling rafters while placing the installation on top of the drywall.

Styrofoam insulation is normally used on exterior walls.
Styrofoam insulation is normally used on exterior walls.

Styrofoam insulation is normally used on exterior walls. This insulation is not typically used on attic ceiling insulation because it doesn’t allow the air or water to pass between the layers of insulation. It is important for attic insulation to breathe. This helps water vapors escape the home from the roof.

Many people use expanding spray foam for attic ceiling insulation. This type of foam expands after it is sprayed out of a can. It is important to buy open-cell spray for an attic space. This foam allows water vapors to penetrate the space, which is critical for attics.

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    • Attic insulation often comes in rolls that must be cut to fit.
      By: Cyril Comtat
      Attic insulation often comes in rolls that must be cut to fit.
    • Spray foam expands after it is sprayed, making it ideal for attics.
      By: PiLensPhoto
      Spray foam expands after it is sprayed, making it ideal for attics.
    • Styrofoam insulation is normally used on exterior walls.
      By: Josef Binsteiner
      Styrofoam insulation is normally used on exterior walls.
    • Styrofoam may be used to insulate both walls and floors.
      By: skatzenberger
      Styrofoam may be used to insulate both walls and floors.