Fiberglass insulation is a highly effective and DIY-friendly form of insulation that can be installed in any part of your Northeastern Pennsylvania home.
Fiberglass batts work best inside open wall cavities, while loose fill can be installed in wall cavities, floors, or behind closed walls. The former can easily be installed by hand, while the latter requires a special blower machine and is usually done by professionals.
For budget-conscious homeowners, from Wilkes-Barre to Scranton, the cost savings of installing fiberglass insulation is often a major selling point when starting a new insulation project.
However, fiberglass batts may be ineffective if installed incorrectly and it’s important to understand how much fiberglass insulation you need for different parts of your home.
A professional insulation contractor can ensure that your fiberglass insulation is installed correctly and for maximum longevity, withstanding threats like moisture and pests.
However, if you’re not sure whether to install fiberglass insulation by yourself or with a professional, this guide will walk you through everything you need to know about fiberglass insulation, including installation instructions.
Types of Fiberglass Insulation
Fiberglass insulation comes in two different forms: batts and loose-fill. Batt insulation is pre-cut into rectangular sheets designed to fit snugly between wall studs or attic joists. It’s commonly used in DIY projects because it’s easy to measure and place.
Loose-fill fiberglass (also called blown-in insulation) consists of tiny glass fibers blown into attics or wall cavities with a special machine. It provides better coverage, especially around irregular shapes and hard-to-reach areas.
Both types perform well when properly installed, but how you install them determines how much energy efficiency you actually get. A small air gap or compressed batt can drop R-value performance dramatically. That’s where professional experience and equipment make a difference.
Understanding Fiberglass R-Value
When shopping for fiberglass insulation, you will notice that it comes in different thermal resistance values, otherwise known as R-value. This value simply measures how well an insulation material blocks heat transfer, with a higher value meaning a better insulating product.
EnergyStar recommends that uninsulated attics in Northeast Pennsylvania install insulation with a thermal resistance value of R60, and attics with insulation increase their thermal resistance to R49.
Many pre-made rolls and batts are available in an R49 or R60 blend, but if you’re installing loose fill or thinner insulation, you’ll need to measure the thickness of the material to determine its proper R-value.
How to Install Fiberglass Insulation Yourself
Deciding between DIY and professional fiberglass insulation installation depends on your level of expertise and handiness. Most people can install basic fiberglass batts in wall cavities without the use of a professional, though the process may not be as easy as you think.
Here’s how to approach a DIY fiberglass insulation project safely and effectively:
Step #1. Assess the Area and Measure
Start by inspecting the space and calculating how much insulation you need. Measure the square footage and check the current insulation’s condition. Use your local building code or Energy Star’s map to find the recommended R-value for your region (in NEPA, attics typically require R-49 to R-60).
Step #2. Wear Proper Protective Gear
Fiberglass can irritate your skin, eyes, and lungs. Always wear gloves, a long-sleeve shirt, safety goggles, and a respirator mask. Avoid touching your face or eyes during the project.
Step #3. Seal Air Leaks First
Before laying any insulation, seal gaps around pipes, vents, and electrical openings with caulk or expanding foam. This step prevents warm air from escaping and stops cold air from entering. Skipping this step is one of the most common DIY mistakes that can really hamper your insulation’s performance.
Step #4. Install the Insulation
To install insulation, you’ll need to cut each batt to the appropriate size to fill the space it’s occupying. Cut each piece slightly longer than the space it fills, so it fits snugly without compressing.
Next, lay the batts between joists, ensuring full contact with the surface below. Avoid leaving gaps or tucking batts too tightly. For faced insulation, the paper or foil side should face the heated interior of the home—it acts as a vapor barrier.
Step #5: Clean Up Safely
Carefully bag scraps and debris, and use a shop vacuum with a HEPA filter to capture airborne fibers. Shower afterward to remove any fiberglass dust from your skin.
Common Fiberglass Installation Mistakes
A successful DIY job can save money upfront, but improper installation can cost far more over time through lost energy efficiency and potential moisture damage.
Here are some common mistakes you’ll want to avoid:
- Don’t cover soffit vents: These vents help ventilate your attic and could lead to moisture issues.
- Don’t double-layer faced insulation: Double-layering can trap moisture and lead to mold.
- Don’t compress insulation: This reduces R-value and effectiveness.
- Remove old insulation (if damaged or moldy): Covering up old, ineffective insulation will mask the problem and require replacement at a later point.
Benefits of Professional Fiberglass Installation
Professional insulation contractors from EnergySmart bring tools, experience, and precision that the average homeowner simply can’t match.
Their expertise ensures not only proper placement but also long-term performance, safety, and code compliance.
- Better Coverage and Efficiency: Pros use blowing machines and thermal imaging to ensure full, even coverage without gaps.
- Moisture and Safety Protection: Contractors properly install vapor barriers, seal leaks, and maintain attic ventilation to prevent mold and rot while working safely around wiring and HVAC systems.
- Right Materials for Each Area: Experts match fiberglass type and thickness to your home’s attic, walls, or basement, often combining materials for maximum energy efficiency.
- Code Compliance and Rebates: Professionals meet local R-value standards, ensure inspections pass, and can help homeowners access energy rebates or incentives.
- Guaranteed Quality: Most pros offer warranties or satisfaction guarantees, giving peace of mind that the job was done correctly and will last.
DIY vs. Professional: What’s the Real Cost Difference?
At first glance, DIY fiberglass insulation seems much cheaper. Materials for an attic can cost between $0.30–$1.50 per square foot, while professional labor costs might range from $0.25–$0.50 per square foot.
But when you factor in the need to rent or buy protective gear, the potential for uneven coverage, and the cost of correcting mistakes later on, the savings shrink quickly. Professional installers also purchase materials in bulk and complete jobs in a fraction of the time, reducing disruption to your home.
Finally, installing insulation can be laborious, especially if done in the middle of winter or summer during extreme temperatures.
FAQs
Can I install fiberglass insulation over existing insulation?
Yes, but only if the old insulation is dry, clean, and mold-free. Never install faced insulation over another vapor barrier, as this can trap moisture.
Is fiberglass insulation safe to handle?
Proper protective gear must be worn when handling fiberglass insulation. Always wear gloves, long sleeves, and a mask to avoid irritation from glass fibers.
How long does professional fiberglass insulation last?
High-quality fiberglass insulation can last 80-100 years or more if it stays dry and undisturbed. Professional installation helps ensure longevity.
