Installing appropriate insulation in the walls, in the process of building or renovating a house, increases the energy efficiency of the building, thus helping to save money on heating and air conditioning. Furthermore, good insulation also helps soundproofing. Whether you want to use spray foam or fiberglass padding, the process is pretty easy to learn for anyone who wants to try their hand at this feat.
Steps
Method 1 of 2: Install Fiberglass Insulation
Step 1. Measure the total area of the walls to be insulated
Before buying fiberglass padding, you need to understand exactly how much you will need. To this end, it is important to measure the total surface area of the walls to be insulated, as well as the space between the tie rods. Count the number of wall pieces to be insulated and adjust accordingly to buy the padding.
In most cases, the tie rods will be positioned at uniform distances and the padding is designed specifically to fill these spaces. It should be the perfect width. However, it's a good idea to count the number of spaces to fill and measure, to make sure you don't go home the wrong size
Step 2. Choose the fiberglass padding
The level of padding will depend on the type of wall you need to insulate. There are different degrees of insulation, depending on the area of the house to be insulated. You will need a different level of insulation for indoors, outdoors, attic and basement.
- The R value of the padding measures the thermal resistance, so the higher the R value, the higher the insulation offered by the padding. For interior walls, R-13 padding for 2x4 rods and R-19 padding for 2x6 tie rods are typically used.
- You will have to choose between coated padding, which has one side covered with paper so as to cover the insulating substance from the outside, and uncoated padding, which simply consists of fiberglass.
Step 3. Evaluate cheaper alternatives
Even though fiberglass is made from 40% recycled material, there are many doubts about any adverse health effects of fiberglass in the home. Fiberglass is a safe and inexpensive insulating substance, but it is not the only choice. You might consider alternatives, such as: br>
- Cotton. Recycled fabrics can be transformed into a rather effective insulator. They also do not involve the problem of airborne fibers, of which some people complain about glass fibers.
- Some minerals, sheep's wool and other cement and cellulose-based substances can also be used as alternatives to fiberglass.
- Just use a material that has thermal resistance. Using items such as egg cartons and other recycled materials is a dangerous practice that can increase the risk of fire.
Step 4. Find the tools you need to get the job done
To install fiberglass or other insulating substances, you will need some basic tools and safety equipment. Make sure you have:
- A stapler.
- A multipurpose knife.
- Protective equipment (gloves, mask, sleeves and long pants).
Step 5. Cut the padding to the appropriate height
Once you have purchased the insulating substance of the right width, you will have to cut it according to the dimensions of the spaces to be filled in terms of height. Arrange the batting on a flat surface and use the knife to cut it from the right side (if you purchased a lined batting). It is quite difficult to cut the stuffing, which has the consistency of cotton candy, but just get carried away.
- When you take the insulator home, remember to keep it in the package until you need to use it. Cutting the glass fiber causes the diffusion of many small fibers in the air, which can cause allergic reactions and respiratory problems. It can also cause severe itching and rashes in people with sensitive skin. Never touch the fiberglass with bare hands and remember to wear a mask when using it.
- If you come into contact with glass fibers, do not wash your hands or face with water: you could cause micro abrasions. Try to remove dirt outdoors and wash your clothes immediately.
Step 6. Push the padding into the space between each tie rod
Once cut, slip the batting into the spaces affixed, so that the upholstery (if you're using a lined batting) is facing out. Try to maneuver the corners gently to prevent particles from escaping. Gently tug the padding outwards, so that it fills the space completely.
Step 7. Secure the ends of the padding to each tie rod
Use the stapler to secure the paper liner to the tie rods, approximately every six inches. You can get help from someone to hold up the insulation if needed. Staple all the pieces carefully and move on to the next part.
If you want sound insulation as well, you could apply a thin line of sealant to the top, bottom and around the walls of each pad. This will create a stronger seal that will prevent sounds from passing through
Step 8. Apply a retardant polyethylene film to the exterior walls
To carefully insulate the external walls, a retardant polyethylene film is applied over the insulating substance to make it more effective. In this way you will maximize the insulating potential of the padding. You can find the film for sale in most DIY stores.
To install it, simply place the film over the padding, stapling it with the stapler approximately every 30 cm. Cut off the excess film with a knife
Method 2 of 2: Isolate with Spray Foam
Step 1. Make sure you have a suitable place to spray the foam
If you want to insulate an area that is in a confined space, such as an attic or basement, using insulating spray foam may be your best bet. Remember to use a low pressure spray and the proper safety tools.
- In most cases, roofs and other extensive renovations require large amounts of spray foam. From an economic point of view it may be advisable to pay a professional who knows how to use a spray truck, high pressure applicators and adequate safety equipment.
- Use spray packs of insulation for smaller jobs, such as gaps between doors and windows, near vents, fans, and other plumbing. Spray cans are great for repairing small leaks, but they are not convenient for insulating an entire wall.
Step 2. Get a low pressure sprayer
Typically disposable and refillable tanks of spray insulation are sold together with spray foam kits. It is not cheap, but it will allow you to quickly and easily isolate a small area. Each brand has its own personal characteristics.
You will need protective equipment. Get mainly eye protection and a face mask. A full suit would be ideal, but a t-shirt and long-sleeved trousers will also work well
Step 3. Choose whether to use open or closed cell insulation foam
Closed cell foam is rigid and dense, with a higher R value than open cell foam. Typically closed cell foam has an R value of 6.6, while open cell foam measures only 3.9. The advantage of open cell foam is that it is much faster and cheaper and is found in most cans individual sprays.
To insulate the walls, small holes are generally made in the plasterboard, in which to insert the spray nozzle to fill the internal cracks. Open cell foam is mainly used in this method, especially for interior ceilings and walls. It also contributes to sound insulation and can be used in the same places as fiberglass. Closed cell foam is typically used for exterior walls
Step 4. Prepare the area to be isolated
Remove dirt, debris and any other kind of grime from the walls to be insulated. Identify the empty areas, where you feel the air passing, glimpse the light or glimpse a crack. Mark these areas with adhesive tape or a pen, to be sure to treat them during the isolation.
- Remember to cover nearby furniture or tiles with plastic film, to avoid dirtying them with the insulating substance. It is difficult to remove.
- It would be better to apply spray insulation with a temperature between 15 and 25 ° C.
Step 5. Apply the spray foam from about half a meter away
Attach the sprayer to the bucket or can of insulation and spray it, as if you were washing a window or car. Don't get too close, stay half a meter away and try to spray the foam as evenly as possible, going back and forth to the area to be insulated. If you are spraying inside a wall count to three, stop and review your progress to make sure you don't overfill the wall.
- Remember that the layer of insulating substance must not exceed 2.5 cm. Applying too much foam insulation can be bad for the walls. The foam may also clump and fall off the surface.
- If you miss your aim or apply the insulator in the wrong place, don't panic. Stop and let the foam dry, then scrape it off the surface with a small knife. Trying to remove the stain on the spot would make the situation worse.
- If you need to apply more than one layer because you are spraying an exterior wall or you want to get better soundproofing, wait until the first layer has dried before you go over it again. In this way you will increase the R value of the insulation and let the two layers adhere perfectly.
Step 6. Make the spray-insulated wall fireproof
Spray foam is not a finished surface and will catch fire easily in the event of a fire. After applying it, it is generally used to add a layer of drywall to cover the isolated area.
Advice
- If you need to cut the padding, do it on the insulating side (of the covered padding).
- As you position the padding, you may find sockets or pipes. You will need to cut out the padding so that it fits.
- Remember to insert the insulating substance first and then to pinch the padding.
- If the tie rods are not evenly positioned, buy some padding that fits the largest cavity and cut it to fit all spaces.
Warnings
- Do not pull the paper covering too much when you pinch the padding. You could create spaces between the padding and the tie on the opposite side.
- Under no circumstances should you install the fiberglass without protective equipment. Use a mask to avoid inhaling fiberglass or other particles, and use work glasses to protect your eyes. Use gloves and covered clothing to avoid irritation caused by glass fibers in contact with the skin.
