You’ll need to carefully clear your working area of insulation to prevent losing any insulation, and to make sure the insulation stays clear of the ventilation channels you’re installing.īelow is a photo of how the baffles should look during an interior installation. If your attic has blown-in insulation, then this job might be a bit messier. Then, you can staple the AccuVent baffles to the roof decking and the top plate, replacing the batts where they belong when you’re finished. If your attic has batt insulation, you’ll need to move the batts aside so you can reach the rafters.
#Rafter baffles install#
To install the baffles from the interior of your attic, you’ll need to clear a work space first. Below is a photo demonstrating how AccuVent looks from the exterior in a home retrofit: This will prevent insulation blow-in, allowing insulation to extend over the top plate and maximizing its efficiency. Double check to be sure no insulation is blocking the soffit vents or obstructing the ventilation channels.ĪccuVent baffles double as drift blockers, extending to cover the outside edge of the insulation. Next, simply slide the baffles up and over the insulation batts, stapling them into place. If you’re installing the baffles from the exterior, you’ll need to remove the fascia board and soffit vent screens before installation. The two most common ways to install insulation baffles are either from the exterior or from the interior. Once you’ve identified these three things, it’s time to install the baffles. Most manufacturers make baffles to fit either 16” or 24” rafter spacing, but AccuVent baffles have perforated edges that can accommodate different rafter spacings, ensuring you can size the baffles specifically for your home. Know what size baffles are right for your attic.Clearing this space will allow you to install the baffles as a barrier to prevent insulation drift down the road. This is especially common with blown-in insulation, since nothing prevents it from drifting and blocking the vents. If you’re installing insulation baffles for the first time in your home, insulation could be blocking the soffit vents.
#Rafter baffles free#
Ensure the soffit vents are free from existing insulation.If your home lacks soffit vents, installing these is your first step in creating energy efficient ventilation. Without the vents, there’s no place for outside air to enter the attic. Many homes appear to have soffit vents, but only have vent screens with no air intake. Making sure your home has soffit vents is an integral part of proper attic ventilation. If you’re looking to retrofit insulation baffles in an existing home, here are three things to look for before you begin: In this post, we’re providing a brief rundown of what to do and expect while installing baffles.
This simple step maximizes insulation effectiveness, prevents mold and moisture, and defends against ice dams. Article by: Brentwood, 07-02-2019 | Category:Ĭontractors typically install insulation baffles during new construction, but it’s never too late to add them to an existing home.