We always recommend hiring a professional to install insulation in your home or office building, but it is possible to do it yourself. Before you install your insulation on your own, there are things you should know! At Alamance Insulation and Gutters, we know how complicated it can be to figure out what type of insulation will best suit your home or building. We have been proudly serving the Triad area for over 20 years. Located in Burlington, North Carolina, we provide outstanding insulation and gutters for our loyal customers in central North Carolina, including Greensboro, Burlington, Hillsborough, High Point, and Mebane, North Carolina. Call us today for all of your insulation needs!
Here are some steps to take before you begin installing insulation:
- Check your local building code for R-value recommendations and any vapor barrier requirements that apply to your area.
- Seal gaps that allow unconditioned air into the space you’re insulating. Pay attention to areas where plumbing, ductwork or wiring enters the space. See Do-It-Yourself Foam Insulation and How to Caulk. In crawlspaces and basements, make sure there are no cracks in the foundation.
- Measure between joists (if insulating a floor or attic) or studs (if insulating unfinished walls) to find the correct width of insulation. If you’re insulating framed walls, make sure the insulation is the correct thickness for your wall studs.
- Use our Roll Insulation Calculator to estimate how much roll or batt insulation you need.
It may be good to know that most insulation is available in faced rolls, unfaced rolls, and pre-cut batts. Faced rolls come with a vapor retarder. Blown-in and foam board insulation may also be available, depending on where you purchase from. The R-value of the product will indicate how well it insulates. See this helpful Insulation Buying Guide for more information on determining the type and R-value you need for different applications.
Also important to note is that the paper side of faced insulation is flammable and should not be left exposed. Always cover it with a finishing material like drywall.
Insulation can be complicated, which is why we always recommend hiring a professional. If your home or business is located near Greensboro, High Point, Burlington, NC or surrounding areas, give Alamance Insulation and Gutters a call today!