How to Insulate your Home

Materials
Insulation (cellulose or fibreglass)
Insulation supports - vents
Polyethylene sheeting
Straight edge
Broom handle
Rafter/soffit vents
Plywood

Tools
Dust mask
Gloves
Stanley knife
Staple gun and staples
Torch
Goggles
Tape measure
Ladder
Pencil

Safety
Always wear goggles, a dust mask, gloves, long pants and a long sleeve shirt when installing roof insulation.

Laying the insulation
Determine what type of roof insulation your home requires by consulting with Bunnings – the type of material and thickness will determine the R-value of the batt product available. Also the type of insulation required will vary depending on where you live.

Next, use a tape measure to calculate the space between ceiling rafters, measure also the clear dimensions of the man hole to determine the width of insulation required – it’s a good idea to write down these measurements as you calculate them.

Work out how many square metres of insulation you require so to cover the full surface area of the ceiling. The batts should extend to outer edge of the wall top plate only.

Use plywood or a wooden plank to create a temporary walkway over the ceiling rafters.

It is recommended to perform the insulation in the early hours of the morning
before the roof heats up.

Start laying insulation from one edge of the roof and lay it between the rafters. The insulation should fit tightly between the rafters. If insulation needs to be cut, compress it with a straight edge and cut along the edge with a Stanley knife.

Install until the entire surface area is covered.

For hard to reach areas, use a broom handle with a nail through the tip so to spike the batt and position it into difficult areas.

If your ceiling insulation requires two layers of insulation, install the second layer on top side of the first batt. For double layer insulation it is recommended to use a high density grade of insulation for the lower layer so it is not crushed by the top layer.

For further expert advice consult the qualifi ed Team Members at your local Bunnings Warehouse.