Installing Rafter Vents

To completely cover your attic floor with insulation out to the eaves you need to install rafter vents (also called insulation baffles). Complete coverage of the attic floor along with sealing air leaks will ensure you get the best performance from your insulation. Rafter vents ensure the soffit vents are clear and there is a channel for outside air to move into the attic at the soffits and out through the gable or ridge vent. To install the rafter vents, staple them directly to the roof decking. Rafter vents come in 4-foot lengths and 14-1/2 and 22-1/2 inch widths for different rafter spacings. Rafter vents should be placed in your attic ceiling in between the rafters at the point where your attic ceiling meets your attic floor.

Once they are in place, you can then place the batts or blankets, or blow insulation, right out to the very edge of the attic floor. Note: Blown insulation may require an additional block to prevent insulation from being blown into the soffit. A piece of rigid foam board placed on the outer edge of the top plate works very well for this.

3. PLACE RAFTER VENTS

example of placing rafter vents — Place rafter vents in between the rafters where the ceiling meets the floor. Photo courtesy of Doug Anderson

4. ADD INSULATION

example of adding insulation — Add insulation around the rafter vent and out to the edge of the attic floor. Photo courtesy of Doug Anderson

Download the Seal and Insulate DIY Guide (PDF, 12.8 MB).