Types Of Attics
First let s discuss the most common types of insulation available for attics.
Types of attics. Batts must be carefully trimmed to fit snugly around vents to retain their r value. Fiberglass batts cellulose loose fill fiberglass and spray foam. The ceiling hatch is generally the size of a door and is set within a recessed panel. More options exist but these four materials make up the vast majority of installations in minnesota attics where i operate.
Both can be added to uninsulated attics or layered over existing material. This type of attic access is featured by a set of pull down wooden and metal stairs that are concealed by a ceiling hatch. An attic may also be called a sky parlor or a garret because attics fill the space between the ceiling of the top floor of a building and the slanted roof they are known for being awkwardly shaped spaces with exposed rafters and difficult to reach corners. Most homes are insulated in the attic and any floors located above unfinished basements or crawl spaces.
Loose fill insulation comes in a variety of materials. Depending on its layout your home may be better. The most effective places to add insulation to older homes are exterior walls attics basements and crawl spaces. R values vary based on the type thickness and density of the material being used.
Once you ve decided which type is best for you examine the material options and prices to home in on the right product. Types of attic fans. The idea of roof vents existed for hundreds of years with natural vents employed in chinese buildings during the tang dynasty natural ventilation ducts in the buddhist monks caves and wind catchers incorporated in arabian architecture. The building codes and building science for.
A couple different fan styles can be used to help control the temperature of an attic space. This type of insulation is ideal for attics with standard spaced beams and joists and very few obstructions. If your attic or wall insulation is in batt or blanket form whether it s fiberglass cellulose or another material you generally don t have to be concerned about asbestos. Vent roofs with steeples towers or cupolas can be found in different buildings from barns to cathedrals.
Loose fill or batt the common term for blanket insulation. For diy attic insulation you ve got two choices. The most common type of attic access style is the attic ladder and hatch system. Their functions differ somewhat.