Final preps before blowing in new insulation

11 years ago

I started a discussion here, regarding putting new insulation in my attic. I ready to continue moving forward with this project.

Using Georgia Powers rebate tool, 8" of cellulose fill will give me an rValue of 30.4. There's between 1 and 2 inches already of rock wool loose insulation.

Here's my question. There is a main walkway down the center, which rises about 12" above the ceiling line.

But, going out to the sides, the boards dip down to just at or just below 8".

Plus, the ceiling joists are all only 6"

For the boards added on top on the ceiling joists, I imagine I can add a 2x4 or 2x6 block to raise them so after blowing insulation, they will still be usable; but all of my ceiling joists will be covered completely. Is this all right?

One additional concern. I have replaced some; but not all of the wiring. There are still a few places that I haven't. How can I mark the spots where wiring is, to be able to go back in as needed to repair/replace?

finally, what is the best method for marking depth along the ceiling joists to make sure I blow in enough; but keep it even at the same time?

Featured Answer

mike_home

11 years ago

You should do all the wire repairs before blowing in the insulation. I imagine it is going be difficult to maneuver around the attic once the insulation is in place. See if you can install junction boxes so they will be above the insulation height.

You could nail 1 X 2 wood strips to the joists so they will stick out above the insulation in the event you need to find something that is buried. Take pictures and mark things as needed.

I suppose you can set up set up guide lines using mason string if you want to be precise about the insulation height.

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Comments (11)

David Stembridge
Original Author
11 years ago
Thanks mike_home, excellent idea with the mason string guide!
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David Stembridge
Original Author
11 years ago

I added baffles to the kitchen area this morning. The kitchen was added on in the 50s. One side requires only partial soffit baffles. Also I used mini blinds marked with measurements for marking height. Will most likely still run a mason string line in addition to keep the insulation level.

This is the exterior of above photo. One thing I noticed was the vent visible on exterior shot and below will include about 4" of insulation. Do I need to cover that section with a small piece of plywood on the inside?
energy_rater_la
11 years ago
use a baffle. you did all your air sealing already?
cellulose has a fine dust that will find its way
into your living space through any small cracks.

what type attic access do you have?
any recessed lights? ductwork in attic?

best of luck
David Stembridge
Original Author
11 years ago
Good idea on the baffle, another friend suggested tacking up a piece of metal flashing, leaving a gap.

All the baffles are in now; but there are gaps on the edges. Someone suggested using some roll insulation pieces to put in the gaps so insulation doesn't get down in the soffits; but the baffles will still allow good air flow.

Haven't done air sealing yet. Been working on one area at a time. After the soffits are ready, I'll start going through sealing. I have a few electrical issues to address. Also have to raise my walkways a bit in case I need to get back in after blowing. (see above photos!)

There are 2 areas, the main, and one above one bedroom. Have to climb up in a closet area above the bathtub... out of all places. In that access area, there's a attic opening with board covering. Will have to work on that opening a bit.

No recessed lighting or ductwork up there. Its a slow process, I can only get up there in the early hours each morning. Wish I had had time earlier this year!
energy_rater_la
11 years ago
I hear you. in my own house I'd start work at 4 am & work until 11 am.
in homeowner's houses I start at 6 for attic work.

best of luck.
David Stembridge thanked energy_rater_la
David Stembridge
Original Author
11 years ago
Thanks!
David Stembridge
Original Author
11 years ago
A little update on this project, I picked up some rolls of unfaced insulation R19 to cut smaller pieces in stick back in the gaps around my soffits and the baffles I added. Here's a before and after shot:

and after:
energy_rater_la
11 years ago
nice.

and...I've used the yard rakes with the adjustable
width to move insulation out of joist bays.
then use the rake to place the new batt, and
the handle to push it into place.
saves working so hard to place the batts
with your hands.

be sure you have enough light & be safe up there.
David Stembridge
Original Author
11 years ago
A couple more pictures of the soffit treatment on the inside! These are now ready!
David Stembridge
Original Author
11 years ago
The back of our home has inaccessible soffits from inside the house, so I have pulled off the alum. siding trim, and will replace damaged boards and instill the baffles and insulation from outside. This is step 1