

                                INSULATING


                 The insulating of the side walls of a house is best
          done while the house is being built. To insulate the side
          walls after the house is built is not cost effective.

                 However there are companies that blow insulation into
          the side walls. This way nether the drywall nor the outside
          walls have to be stripped to the bare studs.

                 Insulating an attic is very cost effective. This can
          be done by the home owner in a few hours.

                 It is just a matter of pouring loose insulation into 
          the space between the ceiling joist. This type of insulation
          comes in bags. It is relatively inexpensive and easy to work
          with.

                 A dust mask must be worn because there will be many
          particles of fiberglass in the air.

                 A depth of at least 9 inches is required to really
          make a difference. Follow the instructions on the bag.

                 If you plan on putting a floor in the attic or there
          is a floor, remove it and fill level with the top of the
          joist, and then replace the floor.

                 If you already have a floor you and do want to remove
          it then you should consider using bat and flange insulation 
          against the rafters and the studs at the gable ends.


                              ***EASY DO TIPS***


          1. When insulating an attic without a floor use two foot
             wide piece of 3/4 plywood 8 feet long or a 1 X 12 X 8
             foot board to stand on.

             Don't buy a piece that has spike knots ( long knots that
             run across the board ). They weaken the board.

          2. Use a garden rake or hoe to spread the loose insulation
             at the edges where the rafters meet the joist. Do not
             cover the vents in the eves.

          3. Wear a cap, a long sleeve shirt and a dust mask.

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