You’ve bought a beautiful old house, with classic moldings and exquisite architectural details. But there’s one problem. It’s cold.
All the insulation has worn off or fallen off the walls, and you don’t know how to insulate walls in an old house. The good news is that it’s possible with a little determination and creativity.
Keep reading to learn about the options for insulating the walls in an old house and leave those old-house woes behind.
How to Insulate Walls in an Old House
If your home was built before 1978, there is a good chance it doesn’t have any insulation in the walls. This is because the building code didn’t require insulation until that year.
To insulate walls in an old house, begin by preparing the surface. Remove all wall molding, baseboards, and outlet covers.
Next, use a drill to create tiny holes in the drywall at evenly spaced intervals. Insert wall anchors into the holes and screw them in place.
Finally, cut pieces of insulation to fit snugly between the wall anchors. Seal the edges of the insulation with caulk or weatherstripping to create a barrier against air infiltration. Click this link to learn about air sealing.
House Insulation Guide
Many types of insulation are available on the market, but not all are created equal. Some types of insulation are more effective than others, and some are more suited for specific homes. If you’re looking to insulate your walls, here are a few things to keep in mind:
First, look at the type of insulation you have in your walls. If it’s an older home, it is fiberglass or cellulose. They tend to settle over time, leaving gaps in your insulation.
Next, consider the R-value of the insulation. This measures how well the insulation will resist heat flow. Foam insulation typically has a higher R-value than fiberglass or cellulose.
Finally, think about the installation process. Some types of insulation, like spray foam, can be difficult to install yourself. If you’re uncomfortable with the installation process, it’s best to leave it to the professionals.
Old House Insulation Tips
Determining which insulation is best for your old house can be tricky. If your home is over 50 years old, it was built before the advent of modern insulation materials. Your home is likely poorly insulated, leading to high energy bills and uncomfortable living conditions.
The best way to insulate walls in an old house is to add insulation to the attic and crawlspace and seal any air leaks, as this will help improve your home’s energy efficiency.
Now you know how to insulate walls in an old house. You’ll save money on your energy bills, and your home will be much more comfortable. So why not get started today?
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