Insulation Installation Tips for First Timers

Installing insulation can be a daunting task for some. If you don’t know what you’re doing, then it can seem quite overwhelming. Luckily for you, our wholesale insulation team have put together this guide full of tips on how you can get the most out of your insulation as well as how to install it properly the first time around. Because as you may know, the key to insulation working to its full potential is correct installation.

 

Before you buy

It’s a good idea to find out exactly what sort of insulation you’ll be needing for your house. Depending on where you live there are minimum R-value requirements that need to be met. These are based on your location’s climate. Different insulation types will have different ranges so be sure to pick the one that suits you best.

Measure the areas between the joists in your ceilings and walls to ensure you have the correct measurements. Insulation can be cut – some are easier to cut than others – so you will be able to get the right dimensions for your house one way or the other. But generally, the batts come in pre-cut measurements that will fit most joist spaces without needing to be cut.

 

Key Safety Precautions

Make sure the area you’re working around is cleared of any electrical wiring or lights. Also, make sure that all power is turned off as you don’t want electrical current running through the house whilst installing. You’ll want to wear clothing that covers your entire body as some insulation material can be irritating to the skin. Safety glasses and a dust mask are key accessories as well as there will be a fair bit of dust generated from ceiling and wall installation.

 

Installing ceiling insulation

We recommend installing ceiling insulation as early in the morning as possible. The warmer the weather becomes, the warmer the ceiling will get and the harder the conditions will become. It is preferred by tradesmen to install ceiling insulation before the plaster is installed, but this is not a must and it can be installed afterwards as well.

Ceiling gaps between the joists will vary more than wall gaps generally, so be sure to measure each gap as you go along and cut your insulation accordingly. Be patient and precise with the cutting – whilst some insulation types like glasswool cut easily, others do not. A utility knife is recommended for the cutting process.

Make sure to double check there are no electrical wires or cables running through your work area. Use a step-ladder to safely feed the properly cut insulation pieces through the joists and lay them flat in their spaces between the joists. Repeat until you’ve filled the whole ceiling. We recommend hanging on to any off-cuts until the job is completed just in case you need to fill any small places.

 

Installing wall insulation

Installing insulation into the walls of your home is a lot simpler than installing insulation in your ceiling. You’ll need to push the batts into the gaps between the studs of the wall, filling every little gap. When it comes to the smaller areas, measure the gap between the studs and cut a piece to size.

When you’re cutting to fit the measurement, go a little bit over the measurements so when you pop it into its spot it has a nice cosy fit. This also applies to the standard batts as well. It is essential that they should have a snug fit so all areas can be covered.

 

Installing underfloor insulation

Insulation that sits under your floor is a little different again. For this type, you’ll need to secure it with strapping underneath. Make sure the strapping is pulled tight underneath the joists and then staple it in. You should place strapping every 20cm, so the insulation is properly secured. This also reduces sagging.

Let the insulation expand after you unwrap it and then fluff it up before putting them between the joists in your subfloor. Install the pieces close together for a tight and secure fit. You can use small pieces to close any gaps left.

 

Looking for wholesale insulation?

If you’re after some wholesale insulation products, then Insulation Essentials is the perfect option for you. We offer a variety of different insulation products in different materials and R-values, so you’ll be able to find whatever you need. If you’re not sure what you need, our experienced and knowledgeable staff can assist you and help you make the right decision.

If you would like to get in contact with us, then please do not hesitate to call on 03 8339 7111 or send us a message through our website here.