When Nick and Hannah realized their new nursery would sit right above their attached garage, they had some concerns about noise and temperature control. In order to address both concerns, they knew garage insulation was a must-do project. To save money, they tackled the project on their own, installing mineral wool in their joist bays.
Wear the Proper PPE
Batts insulation is full of small fibers that become airborne and can cause itching. To avoid these annoyances, make sure to wear the proper personal protective equipment (PPE). This includes a respirator, safety glasses, gloves, and long sleeves.
Work With a Partner
Working with a partner can be a big help when installing insulation. One person can stay on the ladder and keep fitting the batts panels between the joists while the other cuts the panels to length and width. This is the most efficient workflow for tackling these projects.
Use Full-Length Batts Wherever Possible
When installing insulation in a garage ceiling, it’s best to use full-length batts wherever possible, avoiding as many seams as possible. If you have to cut, make sure to save the offcuts as they can be helpful with filling in any gaps and nooks.
Use a Layered Design
For the best results, use a double-layered design. This allows for more insulation and simplifies the installation. Make sure to stagger the joints of the layers so they don’t line up and allow air to pass through. This can make a significant difference in insulation performance.
It Can Be Like a Life-Sized Game of Tetris
Making sure that each piece of insulation is properly installed and fits the space carefully can feel like a big game of Tetris. But every gap must be filled properly to ensure all of the insulation can act as a system and prevent heat transfer.