“R-values” are the measurement unit for thermal resistance of insulation types. The higher the value, the more effective the insulation The silver, reflective barrier on foil bubble insulation is great for reflecting heat and keeping a space cool. This type of insulation is generally less effective than the other two, with a lower overall R-rating.
Though spray foam is relatively easy to apply, it does require a good deal of familiarization with the technique and process involved. Spray foam insulation is also generally pricier than the other two options included in this guide. [5] X Research source This insulation is generally effective for structures that don’t have heating or air conditioning.
Batt and roll insulation provides greater R-values than foil insulation, but has a similar installation process. This insulation type can be trickier in structures with irregularly shaped walls or many obstructions. [7] X Trustworthy Source U. S. Department of Energy Official site for the U. S. Department of Energy, which provides resources related to energy safety, conservation, and efficiency Go to source
In order to measure the studs running along the roof of the building, use scaffolding or a stable ladder. [9] X Research source Rather than measuring the studs running along the ceiling, you can measure the lower crossbeams, if these are present in the building. #* You don’t need to insulate interior walls (walls that don’t share a side with the outdoors), so you can skip measuring the studs on these. [10] X Research source
Furring strips will also create a layer of air between the metal walls and the insulation sheets, which provides further, natural insulation. [12] X Research source
Use clamps to hold each furring strip next to the stud as the adhesive dries.
Use clamps to keep the insulation sheets in place if the process becomes unwieldy. Use scaffolding or a sturdy ladder to hang insulation strips along the ceiling studs or crossbeams.
You don’t need to insulate interior walls that don’t share a face with the outdoors, so you can skip these when calculating the surface area.
You can also use flattened plastic bags, old sheets, or cardboard. Thick plastic drop cloths are also acceptable. [19] X Research source There’s no need to protect any wiring that runs across the wall. Just be sure you’re fine with that wiring being sealed away under a layer of insulation.
Purchase a spray foam kit that has enough foam to coat the entire surface area you measured. It should indicate this on the box–also sometimes described as “yield”. Spray foam also comes in small, individual canisters, but these won’t be adequate to insulate entire walls or structures. [23] X Research source
Before you get spraying, put on disposable coveralls, sturdy shoes, eye coverings, rubber gloves, and a respirator mask. These will keep you safe from any chemical contact during the process.
When spraying the ceiling, position yourself away from directly beneath the area you’re coating. [26] X Research source Use scaffolding or a ladder to reach higher-up places.
You can do additional cleaning and polishing with sandpaper, if you prefer a smooth surface.
In order to measure the studs running along the roof of the building, use scaffolding or a stable ladder. [29] X Research source You don’t need to insulate interior walls , which are walls that don’t share a side with the outdoors, so you can skip measuring any studs found on these. [30] X Research source
Furring strips will also create a layer of air between the metal walls and the insulation sheets, which provides further, natural insulation. [32] X Research source
Use clamps to hold each furring strip next to the stud as the adhesive dries.
The “unfaced side” is the exposed side of the roll of insulation. The “faced” side is the side with a paper layer, which helps to control moisture. [36] X Research source
You may need a second person to hold the insulation against the wall while you secure it with nails. Tuck the insulation behind obtrusions like electrical fixtures, ductwork, or plumbing, or cut away portions of it that may cover things like windows and doors.
