How Much Attic Insulation Do I Need

Recommended insulation levels for retrofitting existing wood framed buildings.

How much attic insulation do i need.

Our tool can act as a rolled insulation calculator a wall insulation calculator and even an attic insulation calculator. Achieving greater r values in attics the higher the r value the better the thermal performance of the insulation. Your attic should have a certain amount of insulation in it and the recommended level of insulation for your attic is dependent on where you live. In zone 1 the average minimum requirement for attic insulation is 9 inches of r30 fill.

The average recommended level is 14 inches of r49. Looking to install blown in insulation but don t know how much you need. The recommended level for most attics is to insulate to r 38 or about 10 to 14 inches depending on insulation type. It is not uncommon to see 15 to 20 of insulation in a well insulated attic.

In zone 2 the average minimum requirement for attic insulation is 9 inches of r30 fill. Add the right kind of insulation. According to the u s. How much insulation in attic for zones 1 4.

The average recommended level is 17 inches of r60. Whether you need a wall insulation calculator or an attic insulation calculator lowe s blown in insulation calculator has you covered. The higher the r value the better the thermal performance of the insulation. When adding additional insulation you do not have to use the same type of insulation that currently exists in your attic.

The insulation in your attic should be at least 12 thick. Use unfaced insulation when adding more insulation to an attic that already has some insulation laying the rolls or batts at right angles to the floor joists. Find your zone on the map and then use the chart to determine the level of insulation you need to properly insulate your attic walls floors and crawlspaces. The thicker the better.

If your insulation doesn t measure up and you need more installation can be done as a weekend diy project or you can call a professional installer to handle the job. Existing 3 4 inches of insulation. Department of energy it s recommended that attics have an r 38 to r 49 or about 12 to 15 of fiberglass or cellulose insulation. Use our roll insulation calculator to estimate the amount of wall insulation crawlspace insulation or attic insulation you need for your project.

If your attic insulation is only a few inches thick or if you can see the ceiling joists you re wasting money on your heating and cooling bills.