Is it okay to put insulation between roof rafters?

Author: Grady Hackett IV  |  Last update: Sunday, June 14, 2026

The general advice we give is that you should always insulate between and above the rafters (warm roof) or between and under the rafters (cold roof).

Should I insulate between my roof rafters?

One of the most important benefits of installing insulation between rafters is that it helps to maintain the current height of the attic or loft space. This means that the height of the attic or loft space remains the same, and you don't have to worry about losing valuable storage or living space.

Where should you not put insulation in the attic?

Also, when laying down additional insulation, work from the perimeter toward the attic opening. Never lay insulation over recessed light fixtures or soffit vents. Keep all insulation at least 3 inches away from recessed "can" lights, unless they are rated IC (Insulated Ceiling).

Should you insulate the underside of your roof?

Unless you have a flat roof you don't need to insulate. The upinsukation should always be applied to the area adjacent to the conditioned air. Attics with a roof and open air space, need to be insulated on the ceiling side and ventilated in the op...

What do you put between roof rafters?

PIR Rigid Board Insulation

It's made of PIR (polyisocyanurate) and normally inserted between the rafters with a minimum of a 50mm gap between it and the roofing material. Rafters would normally need to be extended to 120mm to accommodate a 70mm PIR inserted and a 50mm air gap.

How to cut & fit insulation between rafters. PIR board install between rafters. DIY fit insulation!!

Can insulation touch the roof?

Yes it can touch. As long as there is nothing obstructing flow from the soffits - which sounds like the baffles are.

Do you need blocking between roof rafters?

Where the distance from the top of the braced wall panel to the top of the rafters or roof trusses above is between 91/4 inches (235 mm) and 151/4 inches (387 mm), blocking between rafters or roof trusses shall be provided above the braced wall panel in accordance with Figure R602.

Can you insulate directly under a roof?

You can put all the insulation on top of the roof deck, all the insulation on the underside of the roof deck, or some on top and some below. You can put it all below the roof deck but use two different kinds. Your insulated roof can be a cathedral ceiling or it can be above a conditioned attic.

What is the best insulation for rafters?

The best attic insulation between rafters is mineral wool insulation. It's an affordable, easy-to-install, and effective material at retaining heat. However, an even more sustainable and effective alternative is treated sheep's wool, found at a slightly higher price.

Does roof insulation need air gap?

Yes, an air gap between the roof and insulation is needed, especially for traditional materials like fibreglass, mineral wool, and foil insulation.

Where not to insulate?

Never place insulation close to water heaters, oil burners or anything hot. The backing is especially flammable and will be a major fire hazard for your home.

Can you put too much insulation in attic?

While loft insulation is an effective way to improve energy efficiency and reduce heating costs, over-insulating can lead to several potential issues. Firstly, over-insulation can lead to poor ventilation in the attic, which can cause moisture buildup and increase the risk of mould growth.

How much insulation do I need between rafters?

The thickness of insulation material between rafters is a crucial factor in achieving an optimal level of thermal performance. That's why the UK regulations state that the recommended thickness range should be between 170mm and 350mm.

Should an attic ceiling be insulated?

Insulating the attic ceiling will slow the heat transfer coming through the roof and keep attic temperatures more stable, but with no insulation on the attic floor, the heat from your home will escape into the attic, conditioning a space you are not always using.

Can you insulate between rafters on warm roof?

In some warm roof designs, the insulation is fitted both above and between the rafters. This method can be chosen for a number of reasons.

Is it worth insulating between roof rafters?

Insulating between roof rafters is an excellent way to improve your home's energy efficiency, create a warmer home and save you money on your energy bills – all at the same time. When deciding on the best insulation for your home, we always recommend speaking to local insulation experts for their professional advice.

Can you put batt insulation between rafters?

Placing Insulation: Place the insulation between the rafters. For fiberglass batts, ensure the paper side faces down if you mainly heat your home. If you mainly cool your home, the paper side should face up. Pressing Firmly: Press the insulation firmly into place but avoid compressing it.

What is the best insulation for the underside of the roof?

Our Conclusion. We recommend spray foam insulation because of its relatively simple installation process, high R-value, and applicability to different climate regions.

How much space between roof and insulation?

To maintain airflow, leave a space of 38 to 50 mm (1 1/2 to 2 in.) between the top of the insulation and the underside of the roof sheathing.

What is the proper way to insulate a roof?

For traditional pitched roofs, sometimes called sloping roofs, you will be looking at three main options to insulate from the inside; installing solid insulation boards between the joists of your roof, installing fibreglass or mineral wool insulation batts within the joists, or installing spray foam insulation on your ...

Can insulation touch roof sheeting?

If the insulation is installed properly, there should be a 2" air space above the insulation to the sheathing. In all practical purposes, this is should be easy to do if the rafters are 10" deep and the insulation is only 8". If that is the case, the random touching of the insulation buckling up will not matter.

How do you install insulation between rafters?

Install the insulation: Install the insulation by placing it between the rafters and pressing it firmly into place. If using loose-fill insulation, use a blower to fill the cavity completely. Seal any gaps: Seal any gaps or spaces between the insulation and rafters with foam insulation sealant or caulking.

What goes between rafters?

Outrigger. An outrigger is sometimes called a "lookout". These are pieces of wood installed perpendicularly across rafters, from the common rafters in past one roof rafter and secured into the next.

Do you need baffles between every rafter?

Each space between the rafters needs a baffle, and you must fit each one snuggly into the bay.

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