Tuesday, February 14, 2012

Insulate Ceiling Rafters With Baffle

Insulate Ceiling Rafters With Baffle


Baffles are usually made of cardboard or foam and fit in the bottom section of attic roof cavities between the ceiling rafters. Their job is to allow air to flow through the attic from the vents and stop heat buildup, especially in the summer months. They are easily positioned in place (available in 16- and 24-inch widths) and stapled to the sides of the rafters. Rolls of wall insulation are then installed between the rafters and over the top of the baffles.


Instructions








1. Push the baffle into the first cavity between the ceiling rafters on each side so that the bottom of the baffle is resting on the soffit or eave where the ceiling joists meet the roof rafters. Staple the baffles on their sides to the rafters (there should be about a 1-inch gap between the baffle and roof). Continue this method until all ceiling rafter cavities have baffles installed.


2. Unroll the first section of insulation. Push it into the first cavity between the rafters, starting at the top of the cavity. Make sure the paper retarder is facing toward you. Staple the paper lips on each side of the retarder to the sides of the rafters. Work your way down the cavity pushing and stapling the insulation in place; the bottom section of the insulation will cover the baffle.


3. Cut the bottom of the insulation when you reach the point where the rafters meet the ceiling joists, using a utility knife or scissors. Continue on to the next cavity installing the insulation in place. Complete the entire attic rafter cavity area following the same process.

Tags: sides rafters, between ceiling, between ceiling rafters, between rafters, bottom section