If you were on a very skinny budget and had to make a choice, you would insulate your ceiling first. Installing ceiling insulation can save around 35% on heating and cooling energy. Compare this to insulating your walls. Insulating your walls saves around 15% on heating and cooling energy.
Ceiling batts are too thick and not rigid enough to be fitted into studs without compression (and subsequent R-value). Wall batts have a water repellent added whereas ceiling batts don't. Where higher R-values are required, the use of an R2.
Different parts of your house need varying R-values to work properly. Ceilings generally require higher R-values than walls because heat rises upwards naturally. Consequently though you could use similar type of insulating material different thickness may be required when going for a specific R-value in ceilings.
In fact, adding too much insulation to your walls can lead to problems such as poor ventilation, mould growth, and condensation. This is because thicker insulation can block airflow and trap moisture, leading to indoor air quality issues and even structural damage.
Most climates require a vapor barrier to cover ceiling insulation, but not all insulation requires a vapor barrier. It's always important to refer to your state's building codes.
For new builds or if you are renovating, you may be asking yourself if you should insulate your ceiling or walls first. The best answer is both. Insulation is a once-only cost that makes your house more comfortable for it's entire lifespan, without another cent having to be spent.
The answer is yes! Past a certain point, insulation in a vented attic will do more harm than good.
One of the most important rules of insulation installation order is to install the thickest layer of insulation first, and then add thinner layers on top of it. This is because the thicker the insulation, the higher the R-value, and the more effective it is at preventing heat transfer.
Effective ceiling insulation is the best barrier against the summer heat and the winter cold, saving you up to 20% on your heating and cooling energy costs.
Too Much of a Good Thing
There comes a point where too much insulation starts to have a negative effect — financially, environmentally, and in terms of the longevity of your home. So yes, it is possible to over-insulate your house.
The Best Type of Insulation to Help Keep Your Home Cool
Fiberglass insulation (containing fibers of very fine glass) is a budget-friendly choice that comes in rolls or can be blown-in. It is both fire-and moisture-resistant. Fiberglass insulation has a low R-value.
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.
Based on new research, the North American Insulation Manufacturers Association (NAIMA) estimates that roughly 90% of existing U.S. homes are under-insulated. That means that the occupants are less comfortable, and both energy and money are being wasted.
In most cases, interior walls are not insulated during construction. Unlike exterior walls, which must meet local and state codes for insulation, interior wall insulation is rarely required. This is because interior insulation has much less impact on your home's energy efficiency – but it can still play a role.
Signs It's Time to Replace Insulation
Age 👴🏼 – Insulation is typically pretty hearty. For most homes, it can last for 20-80 years! That being said, like all things, insulation tends to wear down over time.
The best way to insulate the inside of a ceiling depends on the type of ceiling and your specific needs. Spray foam insulation and batt insulation are two popular options. Spray Foam Insulation: This method involves spraying a liquid foam that expands and hardens.
Every type of insulation will react differently when it gets wet. Fiberglass insulation will lose its effectiveness as air is displaced by water, causing it to conduct heat instead of insulating your home. Cellulose will begin degrade if it's not dried quickly, and it can start to grow mold.
Plastic vapor barriers should only be installed in vented attics in climates with more than 8,000 heating degree days. You can forego the plastic and use a vapor retarder (kraft-faced insulation or latex ceiling paint) in all other climates except hot-humid or hot-dry climates.
Therefore, you should prioritize insulating your attic, especially its floor. Attic insulation keeps homes warm in the winter and cooler in the summer. Typically, attic insulation installers will use loose-fill or batt insulation in this area of your home.
A home requires air circulation, so if it is too tightly sealed and over-insulated, moisture can build up that causes mold. With too many layers of insulation, mold can even grow in between the layers. Mold in the home can cause allergy flare-ups, allergic reactions, and breathing issues.
When it comes to insulation, it's generally recommended to leave a gap between the insulation material and any other surfaces, such as walls, ceilings, or roofs. This gap provides ventilation and prevents moisture buildup, which can lead to mould and other problems.
Should I Put Vapor Barrier Plastic Over Insulation Before Drywall? Yes, covering your insulation with a vapor barrier plastic before installing drywall is crucial. It prevents moisture buildup that can lead to mold, rot, and even structural damage.
If you don't insulate your ceiling, the heat from your home will rise and escape through the roof. Also, in the summer, the heat from the roof space will radiate into the rooms. This means the building envelope struggles to maintain comfort.