Insulation Installation Guide

🧱 Step 1: Choose the Right Insulation for the Job

Each part of the home needs the right type of insulation:

🔗 Not sure? Check our product guide →

🧰 Step 2: Tools & Gear You’ll Need

✔ Utility knife or insulation saw
✔ Tape measure
✔ Staple gun (for foil or blanket)
✔ PPE: gloves, long sleeves, dust mask, safety glasses
✔ Ladder (for ceilings or roofs)
✔ Plastic strapping (for underfloor installs)

💡 Always read the product label — some materials (like glasswool) need extra handling care.

🛠️ Step 3: General Install Tips

🧩 Fit It Tight — But Don’t Squash It

Compression = lower R-value. Cut to fit snugly, especially around pipes, light fittings, and power points.

❌ Don’t Leave Gaps

Even small gaps can reduce performance by up to 20%. Fill all spaces, even around awkward framing.

🔥 Keep Clear of Heat Sources

Keep insulation away from downlights, exhaust fans, flues, and chimneys unless rated for close contact or a barrier is installed.

💨 Consider Vapour Barriers (Especially in Cold Zones)

Helps prevent condensation and mould, particularly in Zone 7–8 homes. Some foil products include this layer.

🏠 Ceiling & Roof Insulation

• Lay batts between ceiling joists. Ensure full coverage with no overlaps or gaps.
  
  
• In skillion roofs, use thinner, high-density products or rigid board.
  
  
• For foil blankets: shiny side down, allow an air gap between the foil and the roof sheeting.
  
  

💡 Use roofing blanket (like Supa-Therm) under metal cladding to reduce heat and rain noise.
🔗 More on Roofing Blanket →

🧱 Wall Insulation (New Builds & Reno)

• Fit batts between studs before plaster goes on.
  
  
• For external walls, use higher-density products to help with both temperature and sound.
  
  
• Seal gaps around power outlets, windows, and doors.
  
  

🧦 Underfloor Insulation

• Use straps or mesh to hold insulation tight against the subfloor.
  
  
• Avoid foil-only products unless you’re dealing with radiant heat under metal sheeting.
  
  
• In bushfire-prone areas, check compliance for underfloor material choices.
  
  

⚠️ What to Avoid

• ❌ Gaps between batts or around edges
  
  
• ❌ Blocking ventilation paths in the roof space
  
  
• ❌ Squashing batts into tight areas
  
  
• ❌ Mixing incompatible materials (e.g. foil + bulk without air gap)
  
  
• ❌ Skipping safety gear
  
  

🧯 Is DIY Okay? Or Should I Get a Pro?

DIY works fine for ceiling and underfloor batts — if you follow best practices.

Hire a professional if:

• You’re working on a roof or second-storey
  
  
• There’s existing insulation or old foil
  
  
• You’re in a bushfire-rated zone
  
  
• You’re unsure how to meet NCC/BASIX codes
  
  

🔁 Related Pages:

• ✅ How to Choose Insulation →
  
  
• 📍 Climate Zones Guide →
  
  
• 🔊 Soundproofing Tips →
  
  
• 💸 How Insulation Saves You Money →
  
  

JM Insulation helps you install once, install right — and feel the difference for years.