Vaulted ceiling insulation is quite a complex process when done without knowing the proper techniques. This article explains the requirements and takes you through the steps on insulating a vaulted ceiling.
Installing insulation is an important step that can save heat loss and preserve the energy of a house. Studies show that insulation can save up to 75% of energy. There are different kinds of insulation materials like rolls, batts, rigid board, loose fill, and spray fill. Similar to the various materials, there are different types of roofing that require different treatments when it comes to home insulation. Amongst various types of ceilings, the vaulted type is said to be the most difficult one to insulate owing to its unique arrangement.
Requirements
First of all, a vaulted ceiling is also known by a few other names like cathedral and sloped ceiling. Decorating rooms with a sloped ceiling is a common trend in many contemporary homes. They add a dramatic effect to the living area, which looks very interesting. However, this type of ceiling creates some problems for insulation. Since these ceilings don’t allow for much space for an attic, insulating is a crucial part that every homeowner needs to consider. There are a few unique challenges that these homeowners may have to face.
These challenges involve the space which is needed for insulation. This problem can be sorted if you are planning on installing a sloped ceiling yourself. During the installation, make sure that you keep sufficient space between the roof deck and the ceiling, where the batts of insulation are typically placed. You can do that with the help of a few truss joints, rafters, or scissor truss framing. A foil faced batt is often used, since it has around 0.5 perm rating, which provides absorption power to ceilings that have no or less attic space.
You also need to install vent baffle to maintain a consistent ventilation channel. There are a few other options that can be used if the framing doesn’t work. These things include adding high density batts underneath the rafting and adding the rigid foam. However, you need to be aware of foam insulation pros and cons, before you use it.
How to Insulate a Vaulted Ceiling
Installing a vaulted ceiling requires careful consideration of the building codes in your area. You also need to make sure that you are leaving at least 2 inches of breathing space between the insulation and the roof sheathing. Then, you need to determine the amount of material needed for your ceiling.
For this, measure the length between the rafters, and multiply the number of spaces by that number. Purchase the insulation material by checking its R-value and government standards. Then, roll out the material and measure the first piece. If the area to be filled is too big, then use a second piece and join it to the first one. Then, place the materials gently into the desired position. Compressing them hard will loosen up the R-value.
Place the cut strip between the rafters, and staple the flangs of the material to the bottom trusses. Then, cut out the material near light sockets and other electrical fixtures. You can fill the gaps by using scrap material. It is important to take fire safety measures into consideration when you are insulating around the electric fixtures. Secure all the gaps in the insulation. You can do that with the help of an insulation wire support. These special wires are available at home improvement stores, and you need to install them perpendicular to the trusses.
You need to wear safety clothes, safety eyeglass, gloves, and a mask over your mouth and nose. You should also wear a helmet to protect yourself from ceiling joists or exposed nails.
Before you begin with the insulation process, it is extremely important to check your local building code and make sure that you are following all the local laws. If you are not sure about performing the procedure on your own, then it is always best to hire professional help.
