How to Replace Blown-in Insulation

If leaks are showing up on your ceiling, it's time to fill the insulation gaps.

Filed under: How To, Attics

Blowing insulation into an attic space is a two-person job. The person who will be in the attic should dress for working in warm conditions and be sure to wear proper safety equipment, including gloves, dust mask, long-sleeved shirt and safety glasses.

Here's how to use an insulation blower to fill a problem area:

Materials and Tools:

insulation blower (available for rental at home stores)
blower hose
gloves
dust mask
safety glasses
insulation

Steps:

1. Prepare and assemble the insulation blower, including attaching the blower motor, the hose and power cords. If the machine uses two power cords, plug them into separate outlets to avoid an overload.

2. Wearing dust mask, gloves and safety glasses, fill the bin with insulation. Break up large chunks with your hands.

3. Have one person go into the attic with the blower hose while the other stays outside to keep the hopper filled. Turn on the agitator motor, then the blower motor, and fill the area in the attic until the insulation covers the joists a little to allow for settling.