Rigid Foam Roof Insulation Installation

Rigid foam insulation also known as insulating boards provide high r values.

Rigid foam roof insulation installation.

Install rigid insulation board in multiple layers with joints offset vertically and horizontally between adjacent layers. Use a straight edge knife or utility knife to cut the panels to size. It will degrade its r value. Apply continuous air control membrane to existing roof sheathing or implement continuous air control at roof sheathing.

When installing the foam use caulk or tape for maximum insulation between the material and the board or floor. Not only that foam sheathing will soon be mandated by code in some climate zones. Start at the bottom of the roof and place the first piece of rigid foam insulation against the metal flashing starting at the center line. Use 2 1 2 inch deck screws to drive the furring strips into the foam and the wood framing beyond.

It comes in standard size 4 8 sheets and smaller sizes in many different thicknesses from 1 4 inch to 2 inches. A helpful hint for installation is to use a straight edge along the cut line to ensure the panels fit best. A roof over a vented unconditioned attic does not need to include any insulation. The furring strips should run vertically from floor to ceiling or from eaves to rafters if you are installing them on a sloped ceiling.

Install 1 by 3 furring strips over the insulation panels on top of each stud. Remove existing roofing and non adhered underlayment to expose roof sheathing. Rigid foam offers tremendous boost to a home or office s r value. All three types of rigid foam insulation expanded polystyrene eps extruded polystyrene xps and polyisocyanurate are suitable for use on the exterior of walls and roofs though they do not perform equally.

This type of insulated roof assembly limits thermal bridging through rafters after installing several layers of rigid foam above the roof sheathing. All foam boards absorb water vapor. Foam board insulation is easy to use and is a great diy way to add some insulation. At r 4 it also has the lowest r value per inch.

You can even place it under the foundation slab. Rigid insulation is one of the best tools to reduce your energy costs. Exterior rigid foam improves air tightness adds r value reduces the chance of condensation in wall cavities and greatly reduces thermal bridging through studs. To install measure the foam insulation panels to the roof s dimensions.

They keep your home at a comfortable temperature without the need to crank your heat. One of the best benefits of rigid foam insulation is that it offers excellent thermal resistance at around double that of traditional insulation. Nail it around the edges with roofing nails. Keep foam board insulation away from direct sunlight prior to installation.

Install it anywhere from the roof to the foundation.