Many homeowners are wondering where their rising electric bills are coming from, without realizing that the answer is, literally, just over their heads. The attic is a place in a home that is typically overlooked, especially in terms or proper installation. Studies show, though, that the proper insulation, such as one done with fiberglass, actually contribute to good savings on electric bills, no matter what climate you live in. This is even more important for places that have cold winters, especially those that undergo a lot of snow during the winter. If you realize that your attic needs to be insulated, you will find the following steps to ease the process for you.

Step 1. Before you purchase your insulation material, measure your attic, making careful note of measurements between the joists. This ensures that you buy the correct width of materials. In the absence of a perfect match, order the closest size and be ready to trim the insulation material using a utility knife. You may find the suggested R-value that is best for your area when you know what to ask at the hardware store. For exterior walls, the minimum is usually R-19, but be willing to ask your local store.

Step 2. Be properly geared for the task, prior to unwrapping your insulation rolls. Wearing long pants, long-sleeved shirts, socks, and shoes will ensure you do not suffer from the itchiness of insulation fibers: these are typically described as feeling like little slivers embedded into the skin. Also wear a face mask and gloves to avoid inhaling the insulation fibers.

Step 3. Cut the insulation according to your measurements of the areas between the joists, beginning on one end of the attic at an exterior wall, moving towards the entry. The material is typically spongy, so press on it firmly to make accurate cuts.

Step 4. Set the cut insulation piece gently into the space, giving it a tap with your hands. The insulation will fall into place without requiring nails, staples, or any other way of fastening.

Step 5. Be sure to leave at least a 3-inch gap between the insulation and electrical boxes, lights and fixtures. If you need to ensure that the fibers do not float towards these items, you might want to frame the insulation pieces with cuts of 2 x 4 lumber.

Step 6. You may opt to cover the first insulation layer with another layer, but generally, it is not that necessary.

Step 7. After you are done with the task, be sure to wash with cold water to flush out any fibers that may have stuck onto your body. By all means, avoid warm showers, as hot water tends to open up your pores, giving the fibers an opportunity to get lodged in them.