A: There’s no problem with installing fiberglass batts over your existing blown-in insulation. The only thing you want to make sure of is that you use “unfaced” insulation, meaning it doesn’t have a paper or aluminum foil facing on the batts.

Can you put rolled insulation over blown?

Adding blown-in insulation over existing rolls is not a problem. It’s important to air seal the area before adding new blown-in insulation, so it works well to keep your home energy-efficient.

Does blown-in fiberglass insulation settle?





It is not common for fiberglass to settle. This is largely due to its low R-value, or ability to slow airflow. Because fiberglass insulation has a low R-value, it needs to be installed in thick layers to be effective. The dense volume of fiberglass insulation prevents settling.

Can you mix fiberglass and cellulose blown-in insulation?

Yes, you can mix fiberglass and cellulose insulations. Installing cellulose insulation over fiberglass insulation is known as capping and can save you money and time instead of removing and replacing the former material.

Can you put 2 layers of insulation?

You should install two layers of insulation in your attic; wood joists must be covered to allow the air to move. The first layer will sit between the joists, and the second layer will run perpendicular over the joists. The first layer should have the facing against the drywall to act as a vapor barrier.

Can you mix batt and blown in insulation?

–Dan R. A: There’s no problem with installing fiberglass batts over your existing blown-in insulation. The only thing you want to make sure of is that you use “unfaced” insulation, meaning it doesn’t have a paper or aluminum foil facing on the batts.

Should you take out old blown in insulation?





Your insulation needs to be removed along with the droppings, as it’ll carry some of its toxicity if left in your attic. Removing old insulation and replacing it with new ones will not only rid your home from any rodent infestation and mold, but also improve its energy efficiency and overall air quality.

How long does blown in fiberglass insulation last?

How Long Does Blown in Attic Insulation Last? Regardless of what kind of insulation you choose, blown insulation is a permanent solution. Cellulose insulation lasts 20-30 years because it is made from recycled natural materials, whereas fiberglass materials will last much longer because it does not degrade.

Does blown in insulation need a vapor barrier?

Air / Vapor Barrier

A common misconception is that vapor barriers are required in all insulation installations. With Modern’s Cellulose insulation, a vapor barrier is not recommended except in very cold weather or high moisture areas such as spas or pool buildings.

How thick should blown in insulation be?



When blown into attics and wall spaces, loose-fill fiberglass offers an average R-2.5 thermal value per inch (the higher the number, the greater the insulating effect). You’d need a thickness of about 7.5 inches of insulation to match the insulating value of a batt of R-19 insulation (R-19 is a common batt value).

Can you put insulation over existing insulation?

You can absolutely new insulation over old insulation… as long as it isn’t wet. Energy Star advises as follows: “If it… appears that the insulation [is wet or] has previously been wet, you should look for the cause and repair the problem to prevent a reoccurrence. Remove any wet insulation.

Is blown-in insulation better than rolls?

The Differences Between Blown-in and Rolled Insulation



In terms of R-value, they tend to be equal, although you can choose rolled insulation with varying R-values depending on your needs and your budget. The lower the R-value is, the less effective it will be as insulation – although it will be cheaper as well.

Is there such thing as too much insulation?

It is possible to over-insulate your house so much that it can’t breathe. The whole point of home insulation is to tightly seal your home’s interior. But if it becomes too tightly sealed with too many layers of insulation, moisture can get trapped inside those layers. That’s when mold starts to grow.

What is the thinnest insulation with the highest R-value?

Aerogel insulation

Aerogel insulation offers the highest R-value of any insulating material at less weight and thickness—ideal for construction, refineries, pipelines, and thin-gap thermal barriers.

What is the best R-value for insulation?



Depending on where you live and the part of your home you’re insulating (walls, crawlspace, attic, etc.), you’ll need a different R-Value. Typical recommendations for exterior walls are R-13 to R-23, while R-30, R-38 and R-49 are common for ceilings and attic spaces.

What happens if you put too much insulation in the attic?

It’s possible to over-insulate an attic as too much will cause moisture buildup and eventually result in mold. Eventually, adding more insulation leads to diminishing returns in trapping heat as well.

How many inches of insulation should I have in my attic?

about 10 to 14 inches

The higher the R-Value, the better the thermal performance of the insulation. The recommended level for most attics is to insulate to R-38 or about 10 to 14 inches, depending on insulation type.

Should I insulate between the rafters in my attic?



The general advice we give is that you should always insulate between and above the rafters (warm roof) or between and under the rafters (cold roof).

How much does blown attic insulation cost?

Home Advisor estimates that installing blown-in attic insulation costs anywhere from $600 to $1,200 for attics about 1000 square feet in size. The average home should need an R-value of about 30, which means 10 to 14 inches of total insulation.

Is blown-in insulation cheaper than batts?

Blow-in insulation is quite comparable in cost and R-value when compared to fiberglass batts or blankets.

What is the R-value of 14 inches of blown insulation?

Cold Climates (R-49 to R-60):

Fiberglass (batts): 14” – 19” Cellulose (blown): 14” – 18” Rock Wool (loose): 17” – 25”