Fiberglass insulation can be a powerful tool in helping reduce your energy costs and making your home more comfortable.

Installing it is a fairly easy Do-It-Yourself project, but make sure you protect yourself from exposure to the material. It can become airborne and cause itching and, overtime, respiratory problems. Wear a long sleeved shirt, pants, sturdy shoes, a particle mask or respirator and goggles.

What's the R-Value?

Insulation is defined by its "R-value," which is the measurement of how well the insulation resists the flow of heat. The higher the R-value, the more resistant to the flow of air. Check with your local building department about what the minimum requirements are in your area.

Where to Install It

Add fiberglass insulation:

• between floor joists over crawl spaces or unheated basements
• garage walls in attached garages; cover with wallboard if desired
• attic floor joists

How to Install It

• Measure the length and depth of the cavity before buying the insulation
• Unroll the insulation and place it in the cavity or use the utility knife to cut sections to fit
• Make sure the insulation is snug without compressing it; it needs air space to adequately block heat transfer
• Make sure the vapor barrier/paper backing faces up
• Fold over the paper flaps on the vapor barrier and staple them to the wall studs
• Install chicken wire below the insulation to keep it in place
• Leave 4 to 6 inches of space around the insulation and any electrical fixtures that generate heat

Tools to Buy:

• a utility knife
• a hand stapler
• goggles
• work gloves
• breathing mask or a respirator designed for use with insulation