DIY Network

Install New Insulation Keep your new bathroom comfy and energy-efficient. From "Bathroom Renovations" episode DBTR-502

With their bathroom gutted to the studs and wall sheathing, it’ll never be more convenient for homeowners Andy and JP to install new insulation. Scroll down for the easy step-by-step.

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Materials:

gloves
safety glasses
dust mask
insulation
utility knife

Install Insulation

• Andy and JP removed all of their bathroom’s tile, plus the cementboard from the walls, as part of the demolition. With the walls gutted to the studs and exterior sheathing, they were ready to install up-to-date insulation to keep the bathroom energy-efficient and toasty warm.

• Check local building codes to see what type of insulation is required for the project space. Also check to see if local codes require a vapor barrier between the insulation and the interior wall. Choose materials that satisfy the local building codes.
  

  	Figure A
  	Figure B

• Loosely pack one layer of insulation in the stud cavity, flush with the top of the wall and cut the bottom with a utility knife (figure A). It is important for the insulation to be flush with the front of the studs so no air pockets form between the insulation and the vapor barrier.

  Safety Alert: Always wear safety glasses, a dust mask and work gloves when working with insulation. Long pants and sleeves will help protect skin from irritation by the insulation fibers. If other people are nearby, they also should wear safety glasses and dust masks.

• Cut the vapor barrier – usually a sheet of heavy-duty plastic – to size with a utility knife. Use a hammer tacker or staple gun to attach the vapor barrier to the studs, smoothing it over the insulation (figure B). Drive a staple into the barrier about once every 4-6 inches.

  Note: Any heavy-duty staple driver will work for attaching the vapor barrier to the studs, but a hammer tacker gets the job done quickly. To use the tacker, simply load it with staples and swing it like a regular hammer; it will drive a staple on impact.

• With the insulation and vapor barrier in place, the walls are ready to finish off with cement board (if tiling) or drywall (for areas that won't be exposed to water).