Making sure your attic is properly insulated is one of the top energy-saving upgrades that you can make to your home. The good news is that this home improvement project qualifies for federal tax credits and utility rebates in many areas. You can even find special financing programs for low-to-moderate income families.

Adding pole barn insulation is a moderately challenging do-it-yourself (DIY) project, but it’s important to follow strict safety standards when working in the confined space of an attic. The core precautions include wearing personal protective equipment, managing ventilation, and minimizing contact with old materials that may contain asbestos or rodent droppings.

Understanding Safety Standards for Attic Insulation

The type of attic insulation you choose will have a significant impact on how well your house performs. You can choose from fiberglass rolls, fiberglass batts, cellulose loose-fill, and spray foam insulation. Before attempting to install any type of insulation, you should familiarize yourself with the different materials and their handling methods.

Fiberglass insulation provides a moderate R-value, while cellulose and spray foam provide a higher R-value. However, cellulose insulation requires special handling due to its potential mold growth and the risk of corroding pipes, wires, and other attic fixtures. This type of insulation also doesn’t mix well with moisture and can take a long time to dry out.

Some older homes contain vermiculite insulation, a pea-size mineral that can contain asbestos. If your attic has vermiculite insulation, do not disturb it unless you have it tested for asbestos by an approved lab. If you choose to use this type of insulation, you should also create barriers with sheet metal or wire mesh around fixtures that can come into contact with it, such as recessed lights and vents.

Noble Insulation Inc
1201 Pennsylvania Ave Unit D, Richmond, CA 94801
650-686-2965