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Steps
1
Prepare your safety gear by putting on a dust mask, goggles, long sleeves, long pants, and gloves to protect against fiberglass irritation.
2
Identify air leaks around windows and doors. Apply weatherstripping to moveable joints and use exterior-grade caulk to seal stationary cracks and gaps in the home envelope.
3
Measure the gaps between wall studs and cut fiberglass batts to be slightly wider (about 1/2 inch) than the cavity to ensure a snug fit without compressing the material.
4
Push the insulation batts into the wall cavities. If using faced insulation, ensure the paper side faces the interior of the room, then secure edges to the studs with a staple gun every 7 inches.
5
Apply a vapor-retardant film over the batting on exterior walls. Pull the film tight and staple it to the studs approximately every foot.
6
Insulate the attic by spreading loose-fill insulation or laying batts between joists. Ensure the insulation level reaches the recommended R-value for your specific climate zone.
7
Seal the basement rim joists by cutting rigid foam board at least 2 inches thick to fit between floor joists, then use foam spray to seal the edges for a tight fit.
8
Test the effectiveness of your seals by checking for drafts. If you have an older home with insufficient insulation in finished walls, call a professional to perform a home energy audit or install blown-in insulation.
Pro Tips
Avoid compressing insulation, as this reduces its R-value and insulating effectiveness.
Faced insulation includes a vapor barrier layer that helps block moisture and prevent mold growth.
Close curtains and shades at night to protect against cold drafts from windows.