Cardboard Insulation Baffles

Baffles are a barrier that separates the conditioned and unconditioned space. This prevents insulation from reaching unwanted spaces, such as walls or exterior walls. Baffles are installed properly under roof or attic joists to allow airflow and keep insulation in place.

Ridge exhaust vents are located along the roof's edge. They don't interfere with the roofline in any way. While static vents can be visible, they are protected by unique covers that protect against rain, snow, hail, and sleet. Many static vents include enclosed fans. Powered exhaust fans use solar- and electric-powered fans that switch on when the temperature in the attic reaches a set limit.

Baffles are able to stop insulation from entering places it shouldn't, like exterior walls and floors. Insulation entering these areas can lead to costly repairs. Being able to keep insulation in its correct area will ensure that quality insulation is maintained and prevent any unnecessary repairs. Attic baffles can be used in any type of construction project, large or small. They are designed to provide stability and support to the area they are installed. This is the main purpose of roof insulation baffles when supporting fiberglass insulation. Fiber insulation is today's most popular material for homes.

This means you'll pay less for energy bills each month, feel more comfortable in your home when it's cold outside, and breathe clean air when spending time in your living room or bedroom. In your attic, the insulation is constantly being cooled from below by air from the soffits. A lot of insulation gets blown off because it contains a fiberglass material that becomes brittle in time and gets flung around by air currents. In order to maintain optimal levels, baffles have been developed to help channel airflow and circulate air more effectively and allow cooler air to permeate your attic ceiling and attic space. This will ultimately also help reduce mold build-up.

Baffles are chutes. When installed correctly, they can create a channel for airflow from your exterior roof vents upwards into your attic space. This airflow helps remove moisture from your attic space and regulates the temperature. Baffles are made of a variety material, such as foam, cardboard or plastic. Ecotelligent Homes uses Michigan-specific foam baffles. The foam baffles resist moisture in Michigan, while cardboard baffles could absorb moisture and fall.

Another place you can install insulation baffles is in your attic vents. These will help to keep your attic vents clean and free from debris which could lead to mold or mildew. Insulation baffles may be made from rigid waterproof foam or cardboard, PVC, plastic, or both. They can be placed between the rafters and on the attic floors.

SmartBaffles are designed to fit 16- and 24-inch center rafters. SmartBaffle works with spray foams, loose-fills, fiberglass and any other insulation materials. It's designed for unbreakable and rugged handling. SmartBaffle uses a non-collapsing material for long-lasting durability. For the best 'R’ value (winter) or 'U' (summer), insulation must be installed loosely in the remaining spaces between the rafters. This baffle offers 2" of airflow, more than any competitor product. Refer to the included instructions for how to create SmartBaffles that are wider or less narrow depending on the rafter spacing.

For proper air circulation in your attic space, rafter baffles will be essential. They help to keep moisture and heat out by creating a channel between insulation and roof sheathing. Install the baffles between the soffit vents and the ridge vent. The baffles should be covered with batting insulation. Rafter baffles can be made from rigid foam board. These baffles can be easily mounted on attic rafters. First, remove all fascia boards and soffit vent screens. Slide the insulation baffle on top of the insulation batts, and attach them with staples. Before installing the baffles, make sure you inspect them for obstructions.

Michigan residential construction code requires baffles to be installed in all cavities. But, Ecotelligent Homes does not consider this the gold standard. Instead, it is the minimum required. Our basic attic insulation package, which goes above and beyond the minimum code requirements, includes air sealing exterior top plates and baffle installation in each cavity. (Artwork courtesy Amanda Godward, our clever engineer).

Next, measure the distance between rafters. At least four inches should be the distance between the rafters. The bottom of each baffle should be at the junction of the ceiling joist and the roof beams. After you have measured the distance, you are ready to start installing the baffles. You must align the baffles correctly and securely attach them. To prevent air leakage, it is important to spray foam seal the points.

While the attic baffle market is pretty competitive right now, not all insulation baffles are made alike. In this review, we are focusing on DCI Product's SmartBaffle solution as we have found it to be one of the most effective and affordable baffle products on the market today.

To start an attic baffle installation, begin by measuring the space between your rafters. Attics and More says that you'll need to measure a rafter to determine its size and then plan to spread them out about 4 inches apart. Place your baffles between the rafters, making sure that they do not touch the attic ceiling. Place the first one next to your first soffit vent and staple it right onto the roof deck. If your attic has knee walls on the lower sections, install the baffles where the drywall attaches to the rafters.