What Goes Into an Attic Insulation Install?

Ever wonder what actually goes into an attic insulation install job? Most homeowners never see the process. They just enjoy the results of lower energy bills and a more comfortable home! Let's pull back the curtain on how our crew transforms under-insulated attics into high-performance thermal barriers.

 

Step 1: Air Sealing Comes First

Before a single fluff of insulation goes into your attic, we need to address air leaks. This critical first step is what separates a mediocre insulation job from an exceptional one.

 

Why air sealing matters: Air leaks are responsible for up to 40% of heating and cooling loss in homes. You can pile insulation three feet deep, but if warm air is escaping through gaps around recessed lights, plumbing penetrations, or attic hatches, you're still wasting energy and money.

 

 

 

What we seal:

- Top plates where walls meet the attic floor

- Plumbing and electrical penetrations

- Recessed light fixtures (with IC-rated covers when needed)

- Attic access hatches

- Chimney chases

- HVAC duct penetrations

- Any gaps or cracks in the attic floor

We use specialized foam sealants and materials designed for high-temperature environments. This creates a complete air barrier before insulation is added, ensuring maximum performance.

 

Step 2: The Blown-In Insulation Process

Once air sealing is complete, it's time for the main event: installing blown-in insulation.

 

The Equipment

Our crew uses a powerful insulation blowing machine. It is essentially a large hopper on wheels that breaks up compressed insulation bales and propels the material through a long hose system. The machine agitates and fluffs the insulation to its full expansion before sending it up to the attic. A long, flexible tube (typically 2-3 inches in diameter) connects the machine to the attic space. For most residential jobs, this hose can extend 100+ feet, allowing us to position the noisy machine outside or in the garage while working in the attic. Blown-in insulation is carefully distributed using specialized equipment that ensures:

- Even coverage across all areas

- Proper density for maximum R-value

- Ability to fill tight spaces and irregular areas

- Coverage over and around obstacles like trusses and wiring

 

Installing TruSoft Cellulose Insulation

At Josh Lowe's Dr. Energy Saver, we primarily use TruSoft cellulose insulation for blown-in applications. Here's why:

 

Material Composition TruSoft is made from recycled paper fibers (up to 85% recycled content) treated with a unique two-stage fire retardant process. Unlike fiberglass, which can be irritating and is on the National Toxicology Program's list of substances "reasonably anticipated" to cause cancer, cellulose is biologically innocuous.As Dr. A. Furst, a leading toxicologist, notes: "In essence, the dust from cellulose insulation can be considered as any household dusts. Cellulose, per se, is non-toxic. Biologically, cellulose is innocuous."

 

Fire Safety Cellulose is the only building material in most homes commonly treated with fire retardants. TruSoft's two-stage process injects both dry and liquid fire retardants that penetrate the fibers, creating insulation that exceeds every local and national fire standard.

 

Performance Benefits

- R-value of 3.5-3.7 per inch

- Superior air sealing properties compared to fiberglass

- Excellent soundproofing characteristics

- Settles minimally over time

- Resists mold growth

- Eco-friendly and sustainable

The Installation Process: Step by Step

 

1. Preparation

Before our crew arrives, we conduct a thorough attic inspection to identify any issues that need addressing—roof leaks, inadequate ventilation, or structural concerns. On installation day, the team sets up the blowing machine and runs the hose to the attic access point.

2. Air Sealing (As Discussed)

This critical step happens before any insulation is installed, creating a complete thermal boundary.

3. Marking Depth Guides

We install depth markers or rulers throughout the attic to ensure consistent coverage and achieve the target R-value. For most Oregon homes, we recommend R-49 to R-60 insulation levels in attics.

4. Blowing the Insulation

One crew member operates the machine while another works in the attic, directing the hose to distribute insulation evenly. The attic installer:

- Starts at the furthest point from the access and works backward

- Fills all gaps, corners, and hard-to-reach areas

- Ensures even coverage across the entire attic floor

- Maintains proper clearances around recessed lights and exhaust fans

- Keeps insulation away from soffit vents to maintain proper ventilation

5. Final Inspection and Cleanup

After installation, we verify:

- Consistent depth throughout the attic

- Proper coverage with no gaps or thin spots

- Maintained clearances around heat-producing fixtures

- No blocked ventilation pathways

- Clean workspace with all debris removed

 

Common Questions About Attic Insulation:

Will insulation make my attic hot? Proper attic insulation actually keeps your attic cooler in summer by preventing heat from your living space from rising into the attic. Combined with adequate ventilation, this creates a more balanced attic environment.

Can I store items in my attic after insulation? Yes, but we recommend installing raised platforms or walkways over the insulation if you plan to use the attic for storage. Walking directly on blown-in insulation compresses it and reduces its R-value.

How long does blown-in insulation last? TruSoft cellulose insulation can last 20-30 years or more when properly installed. It settles minimally (about 1-2 inches) within the first year, which we account for during installation.

Is the dust from installation a concern? We take precautions to minimize dust, but some are inevitable. We seal off the attic access and use ventilation when needed. The dust from cellulose insulation is non-toxic and comparable to household dust.

Ready to Upgrade Your Attic Insulation?

If you're experiencing high energy bills, uncomfortable rooms, or ice dams in winter, your attic insulation may need attention. Our team provides free attic inspections and detailed proposals for improving your home's energy performance.

Contact Josh Lowe's Dr. Energy Saver today to schedule your free attic evaluation. We'll assess your current insulation levels, identify air leaks, and recommend solutions tailored to your home and budget.

 

Wondering if your attic needs more insulation? Most Oregon homes built before 2000 are significantly under-insulated. Contact us for a free evaluation and discover how proper attic insulation can lower your energy bills and improve home comfort.