What insulation to choose for the attic floor. Which insulation is better for a mansard roof - choose the best option. How to calculate the thickness of thermal insulation

If the roof country house forms a spacious attic space, it can be used to expand the living space. The attic room can serve as a bedroom or an office, a sports room, a cinema or a billiard room. To use extra bed all year round, need good thermal insulation. Insulation of the attic does not require large material costs, especially since the work can be done by hand. It is only important to choose the right thermal insulation material and properly install.

Requirements for thermal insulation materials

The same technology that is used in construction is suitable for attic insulation. frame houses, however, increased requirements are imposed on materials and quality of work. The quality of the attic space thermal insulation will affect both the conditions for comfortable living and the durability of the roof. This is due to the fact that the walls of the attic room form gables and roof slopes - those surfaces that heat up the most in the summer heat. In winter, on the contrary, blown by cold air currents, they cool down the fastest. If the thermal insulation is of poor quality, then the roof will let heat out. One should not think that the danger of such a situation lies in a banal increase in energy costs for heating the attic. Warm slopes will provoke the melting of snow, and this is fraught with many more serious troubles - from mechanical damage to the top coating by the resulting ice to the appearance of fungi and mold that destroy the roofing pie and wooden structures truss system.

High-quality thermal insulation will make the attic comfortable for living both in the summer heat and in the winter cold

When choosing a material for attic insulation, it should be remembered that not only the thickness and number of layers of thermal insulation, but also the ease of installation depends on this. Based on the specifics of the use of heaters, they are subject to the following requirements:

1. Ability to withstand peak temperatures. The material must be frost-resistant and not break down at high temperatures, retaining its characteristics even after numerous freeze-thaw or heating-cooling cycles.
2. Durability. The service life of thermal insulation should not be lower, if not higher, than other materials used on the roof. This is due to the fact that it is much more difficult to replace a roofing cake than, for example, a top coating made of metal tiles or ondulin.
3. As low a coefficient of thermal conductivity as possible. It is best to take a heater with an indicator of no more than 0.05 W / m × K.
4. Maximum moisture resistance. Since condensation may appear in the under-roof space, the material should not absorb moisture and lose its properties when wet.
5. Fire safety. Thermal insulation must not burn or support combustion.
6. Light weight. The insulation should be lightweight so as not to create an increased load on the roof truss system. The total weight of the insulation can be determined by multiplying its density by the volume. Experts recommend using materials with a density of up to 50 kg / m 3.
7. The ability to maintain a given configuration. The insulation is laid in the gaps between the rafters in an inclined position. If you choose a material that can deform under its own weight, then over time it can slide down, forming voids inside the structure. It is necessary to choose thermal insulation that can long time keep the original size and shape.

What thermal insulation will be chosen affects the thickness of the roofing pie. Later we will look at how to calculate the amount of material needed.

What materials are suitable for attic insulation

You can make the attic suitable for living at any time of the year with the help of various heaters. Consider their features and highlight the strengths and weaknesses.

Mineral wool

To insulate the attic, you can use glass wool, mineral or slag wool. These materials have the following thermal and operational parameters:

• high thermal resistance - up to 1.19 W / (m 2 / K);
• low thermal conductivity - no more than 0.042 W / m × K;
• light weight - from 15 to 38 kg per 1 m 2.

Cotton-type thermal insulation is a favorite option for home craftsmen if the roofing cake needs to be equipped from the inside of the room. It does not support combustion, has a minimum weight, and, importantly, rodents do not start in its layer. Slab samples perfectly retain their shape, and when laying fibrous insulation in the space between the rafters, no precise adjustment is required - mineral wool is easily distributed without seams and gaps.

Mineral wool is produced in the form of roll and plate materials.

The only drawback can be considered increased hygroscopicity. Due to the appearance of moisture between the fibers, the thermal insulation properties of the material fall by more than half, and it itself begins to collapse. Therefore, mineral wool needs high-quality waterproofing from the side of the roof and the installation of a vapor barrier membrane from inside the attic room.

Polymer thermal insulation

For insulation of the roof structure, polymeric materials are often used - polystyrene foam and polyurethane foam. They perfectly retain heat and, due to their hydrophobicity, are not at all afraid of moisture.

Simple expanded polystyrene, which is also called polystyrene foam, is one of the most popular heaters on the market. building materials. Good performance characteristics - minimum density, low thermal conductivity, moisture resistance and the ability to hold a given shape contribute to the idealization of this material. As a result, it is often used where it is strongly discouraged. Firstly, only non-combustible foam of the G1-G2 brand is suitable for warming residential premises, and not the popular G3-G4, which ignites perfectly and burns out in a matter of minutes. If you choose the latter for warming the attic, then it will be unrealistic to survive in it during a fire. Secondly, the installation of ordinary polystyrene foam is not an easy task, since it is poorly cut and crumbles easily. Thirdly, this material is subject to aging and begins to deteriorate rapidly over time. And in conclusion, it should be noted that polystyrene is a favorite material for rats and mice, so it is used only where it will be covered with a layer of concrete screed or hidden behind plaster.

Styrofoam is a type of gas-filled plastic that can be used to insulate an attic room.

The disadvantages of polystyrene are almost completely devoid of extruded polystyrene foam (EPS), which is well suited for thermal insulation of an attic room from the outside. To do this, the insulation boards are laid directly under roofing material, over the elements of the truss system. The composition of extruded polystyrene foam includes flame retardants, so it does not burn well. Compared to foam, XPS has higher strength and stiffness, which makes it much easier to install. Like other polymeric materials, extruded polystyrene foam is waterproof, impervious to steam and has good energy-saving properties. This makes him the best option for thermal insulation mansard roof outside. By the way, EPPS will require quite a bit - a 100-mm layer will be enough to insulate the attic in most regions of our country.

Extruded polystyrene foam is best suited for roof insulation from the outside

polyurethane foam

Polyurethane foam (PPU) is a gas-filled plastic that is applied in liquid form to the inner surface of the slopes. When set, the material forms a rigid foam with excellent physical characteristics:

• heat transfer - up to 0.027 W/m×K;
• thermal resistance from 1.85 to 9.25 W/(m2/K);
• thermal insulation density - from 30 to 86 kg / m 3;
• weight - from 11 to 22 kg.

For the application of polyurethane foam, a special installation is used, in which liquid mixture foams when air or CO 2 is supplied.

To insulate the roof with polyurethane foam, you will have to turn to specialists - you cannot do without special equipment and skills

This method of installation largely determines the advantages of the insulation, since when blowing out the under-roof space, there are no cracks, gaps and cold bridges in the form of open elements of the truss system. PPU does not support combustion and does not change shape. It does not break down over time and resists moisture well. By the way, the last factor causes low vapor permeability - the insulation does not allow the roof to "breathe", which is fraught with high humidity in the attic space.

In order for the air in the attic room to be fresh and light, and the wall surfaces not to be covered with mold and fungus, when insulating the roof with polyurethane foam, you should definitely consider a high-quality ventilation system.

Ecowool can be considered one of the best materials for home insulation work. This insulation is more than 80% cellulose fibers, therefore it has a low thermal conductivity and is well suited for filling the gaps between the rafters. Since cellulose in its pure form burns well and is destroyed by fungi, borax is introduced into its composition as a flame retardant and boric acid to protect against damage by biological organisms, including rodents.

The main physical properties of ecowool:

• thermal conductivity - from 0.037 to 0.042 W/m×K;
• density depends on the degree of laying and varies between 26–95 kg / m 3;
• combustibility - group G2 according to GOST 30244;
• vapor permeability - up to 03 mg / mchPa.

In terms of its operational properties, ecowool approaches mineral and polymer thermal insulation, being ahead of them in many factors. So, unlike mineral wool, it absorbs moisture without a significant decrease in thermal conductivity. With an increase in humidity by 1%, a basalt slab will lose a tenth of its thermal insulation properties, while ecowool, when saturated with moisture up to 25%, will increase thermal conductivity by no more than 5%.

Ecowool is suitable for attic insulation in the form of plates of various thicknesses.

It is also important that when dried, cellulose insulation completely restores its original characteristics. At the same time, it can serve as a kind of buffer that can maintain a comfortable level of humidity in the room. Ecowool allows installation in a seamless way, therefore it forms a monolithic layer without gaps and cold bridges. Its breathability is almost two times lower than that of mineral heaters, and at the same time it remains elastic enough to dampen sound waves. When using ecowool, the attic will be best protected from external noise. And, finally, it is impossible to remain silent about the environmental friendliness and safety of this material. In its composition there is not a single chemical compound that could evaporate and release substances harmful to humans.

How to calculate the thickness of thermal insulation

To calculate which layer of insulation is needed to insulate the attic, builders use the formula from SNiP II-3–79 δ ut = (R - 0.16 - δ 1 / λ 1 - δ 2 / λ 2 - δ i / λ i) × λ ut, in which R is the thermal resistance of the slope, wall or ceiling (m 2 × ° С / W), δ is the calculated thickness individual elements structure in meters, and λ is the thermal conductivity of the insulation (W / m × ° C) for the structural layers used.

In a private house building, the formula is simplified to a simple equation δ ut = R × λB, where the last factor characterizes the thermal conductivity of the insulation used in W / m × ° С. The minimum thermal resistance of walls, roofs and ceilings depends on the region in which the construction is being carried out.

Table: thermal resistance values ​​depending on the region of construction

The thermal conductivity characteristics of any thermal insulation material can also be found in the tables.

Table: thermal conductivity coefficients of materials

To determine the thickness of the insulation, it is not necessary to count everything manually. You can use the online calculator, which is easy to find on the Internet. All that is needed in this case is to enter the values climate zone, attic area, type of insulation and its scope. The program will do all the other calculations for you.

Attic insulation from the inside

The simplest and most convenient way to insulate the roof is thermal insulation from the side of the attic room. For this purpose, almost all known heat-insulating materials are used. Most often, mineral or glass wool is used - the low price of these heaters affects. Extruded polystyrene foam is used a little less often, the installation of which causes more difficulties. And unfortunately, ecowool or polystyrene blowing is still very rarely used - the relatively high price and complexity of installing thermal insulation play a role here.

When insulating the attic from the inside, not only the walls, but also the floor are insulated

The durability of the materials used and the comfort inside the attic depends on how accurately the technology of thermal insulation measures will be observed. most important role here it plays how correctly the roofing “pie” is laid. If we consider the structure from the inside out, then it consists of the following elements:

• finishing with sheets of drywall, plywood or OSB, clapboard, etc.;
• vapor barrier;
• thermal insulation material;
• waterproofing;
• counter-lattice and crate with a ventilation gap;
• roofing material.

It should be noted that vapor barrier is needed only when cotton materials are used for insulation - in this case, it will prevent the penetration of moist air from the attic room. When using polyurethane foam or expanded polystyrene, the need for a diffusion membrane is eliminated.

As for waterproofing, it is needed in any case, since it will serve as an additional barrier to protect the roofing pie and wooden elements truss system from moisture coming from outside. If fibrous insulation is used for thermal insulation, then superdiffusion membranes are used that can pass water vapor in one direction. During installation, they are oriented in such a way as to ensure the removal of moisture from wadded materials. In addition, to improve ventilation between the waterproofing and the roof, a ventilation gap of 5 to 10 cm in height is arranged.

When insulating with mineral wool, it is necessary to use a vapor barrier film

The whole process of roof insulation can be divided into several stages:

• preparatory work;
• preparation of thermal insulation material;
• laying the heater in place;
• fastening of thermal insulation;
• finishing activities.

The insulation of the attic space should be remembered from the design stage, not forgetting to take into account the features thermal insulation works at all stages of construction. It should be decided from the very beginning what the walls of the attic will be. If sloping roof surfaces up to the floor itself act as their quality, then the roof slopes are insulated. In the event that vertical wall structures are installed, thermal insulation is installed on the involved sections of the roof, walls and adjacent sections of the ceiling.

Thermal insulation is installed on the used areas

Work order

Before proceeding with the thermal insulation of the attic, the insulation pie should be protected with a layer of waterproofing. This work must be done before laying the roofing material, otherwise it will not be possible to achieve complete tightness of the heat-insulating carpet. Laying the film membrane begins right on top of the rafters. The work is carried out from the bottom up, with an overlap of the previous canvas by 15 cm and gluing the joint with special adhesive tape. It is not necessary to stretch the film, it is better to leave a little slack. A deflection of up to 20 mm per 1 linear meter of material will be enough so that the membrane waterproofing does not break with the onset of winter frosts. For attaching the film to the rafters, it is best to use construction stapler. If such a tool is not at hand, then the waterproofing can be nailed with galvanized nails with wide hats.

You should think about protecting the thermal insulation cake from moisture even at the stage of roof construction.

To ensure normal ventilation of the space between the film membrane and the roofing material, lumber with a thickness of at least 25 mm is used as a lathing. They are attached to the rafter legs using corrosion-resistant self-tapping screws or galvanized nails 50–70 mm long.

To avoid accidental damage to the waterproofing film, holes in the crate are made in advance.

If the roof is covered with a soft roof, then a solid base of chipboard, OSB or moisture-resistant plywood is mounted on the crate. Metal tiles, slate and other hard roofing materials are attached directly to the elements of the crate.

Then the installation is carried out from the side of the attic. In order not to make mistakes, you should follow the order of work:

1. Thermal insulation material is unpacked. Slab and roll insulation is laid out on flat surface and leave for a short time to straighten its fibers.
2. The mineral wool panel is cut into pieces, the width of which is 2–3 cm greater than the installation step of the rafter legs.
   

   The standard width of roll insulation is 1.2 m, so for ease of installation, you should choose the same or halved distance between the rafters. In the latter case, the insulation is cut lengthwise, obtaining two canvases 0.6 m wide.

3. The cut insulation boards are laid in the gaps between the rafters. Initially, the thermal insulation will be held due to the “spread” installation, so each canvas is first pressed in the center, and then its edges are filled so that the insulation does not protrude beyond the rafters.
4. Mineral wool is covered with a vapor barrier membrane. As in the case of waterproofing, strips of material are laid horizontally, from the bottom up, with an overlap of at least 10 cm. The joints are glued with adhesive tape, and the film itself is attached to the rafters with staplers.
5. From lumber with a thickness of 2.5 cm, the lower crate is made. In the future, it will be attached drywall constructions or other finishing material.

   The insulation layer is covered with a vapor barrier membrane, on top of which the battens are stuffed

Sometimes it is necessary to equip an insulated attic in a house with already installed roof. In order not to dismantle the roofing material, the waterproofing membrane can be installed from the side of the room. To do this, wrap the rafters with a film, and the material itself is attached to the crate. The disadvantage of this solution is that the wooden roof structures remain unprotected if moisture begins to seep inside for some reason.

Video: thermal insulation of the attic floor with mineral wool

Features of insulation of the mansard roof from the outside

If the design of the attic presupposes the presence wooden beams on the walls or its dimensions do not allow using a single centimeter of space, then the roof is insulated from the outside. It is best to do this at the stage of roof construction, because otherwise you will have to remove the roofing material.

Roof insulation from the outside can only be done with rigid thermal insulation.. The best material in this case is extruded polystyrene foam. As noted above, such a coating does not need vapor barrier, so the insulation pie consists of fewer layers:

• slab thermal insulation;
• waterproofing membrane;
• crate with ventilation gap;
• roofing material.

The main advantage of roof insulation from the outside is the uniformity of the thermal insulation layer. The undoubted advantage is the absence of cold bridges and the possibility of inspecting and repairing rafters without dismantling the roofing material.

The way in which the attic is insulated from the outside will increase the interior space of the attic and use the rafters as decorative elements interior

Work order:

All that remains to be done is to lay and fix the roofing material. Rigid types of coatings are attached directly to the crate, so you should take into account the distance between the timber at the stage of its installation. Under soft roof equip a solid base of OSB or plywood, which is protected by a layer of waterproofing. In this case, it is not necessary to install a waterproofing membrane over the insulation.

Video: everything you need to know about attic insulation

The thermal insulation of the attic room, in addition to, in fact, keeping the heat inside, allows you to solve a number of other problems. High-quality insulation will prevent overheating of the roof in the summer, which means that the room will be as comfortable as in any other room. In winter frosts, the heat-insulating cake will not allow snow to melt and ice formation, and during rain or hail it will serve as noise protection. It is only important to take into account the features of various heaters and perform the work competently, taking into account the rules and installation technology.

The attic floor is often used for housing, so it is necessary to carry out the insulation correctly in order to create comfortable conditions. The technology is similar to similar work in any other room, but the peculiarity is that the attic is separated from the street by gables and roofing, and not by capital walls. All surfaces need to be insulated, and since they differ in device, the installation of the insulation is carried out in different ways.

What is the best way to insulate a mansard roof

Usually on the attic floor there is no bearing walls, with high thermal insulation characteristics, therefore, the insulation of the roof and gables should be carried out especially carefully and efficiently. Only in this way you can feel comfortable and cozy in the attic both in summer and in winter.

If we compare the roof of the attic room and the main walls, it is clear that it cannot compete with them in terms of thermal insulation. In addition, the roof cannot withstand heavy loads. All this must be taken into account when choosing a heater.

Properly insulated attic room allows you to significantly increase the living area of ​​\u200b\u200bthe house

In order to maximize the useful volume attic floor, during its construction it is necessary to adhere to the following rules:

• to reduce the load on the truss system, light roofing materials are chosen; in this case, it is not recommended to use natural tiles;
• to reduce the layer of the roofing cake, modern and effective heat-insulating materials are chosen;
• special attention is paid to the organization of ventilation of the roof space, otherwise moisture will accumulate in the room and the thermal insulation properties will deteriorate.

Properly performed ventilation and waterproofing of the mansard roof allows moisture to be removed from under the roof space, which ensures effective thermal insulation and long service life of the materials used.

For the attic roof it is necessary to choose light materials

The number of required layers and the thickness of the heat-insulating “pie” depend on the choice of insulation. The attic has its own design features, so the insulation must meet the following requirements:

• have low thermal conductivity, experts recommend using materials with a coefficient below 0.05 W / m * K;
• due to possible roof leaks, the insulation must be moisture resistant and lose a minimum of its properties after getting wet;
• have a small weight so as not to overload the truss system, it depends on the density of the material, which should be in the range of 14–50 kg / m 3, more dense heaters use is not recommended;
• should not burn and support combustion;
• since the heat-insulating material is laid on the roof, this requires that it keeps its shape well and does not slip over time, forming gaps;
• withstand significant temperature changes, not be afraid of frost;
• have a long service life.

Materials for insulation

For the insulation of the attic roof, the following materials are most often used:

1. Mineral wool. This perfect solution, it does not burn and does not support the combustion process, it is easy to fit, has a low weight, high thermal insulation characteristics. In addition, mineral wool has an affordable cost, therefore it is popular and in demand. Depending on the location of the insulated building, the thickness of its layer can be from 150 to 300 mm. The main disadvantage is that this material absorbs moisture well, so you need to make high-quality waterproofing.

   Mineral wool can be in rolls and mats, it is more difficult to insulate the roof with rolled materials

2. Styrofoam or expanded polystyrene. This material has a low weight, good thermal insulation characteristics, low moisture permeability, but its main drawback is a high degree of fire hazard. During the laying of the foam, it crumbles, so there are gaps that must be additionally sealed. After some time, the foam plastic, unprotected from external factors, begins to gradually collapse, therefore, experts do not recommend warming the attic with this material.

   To insulate the attic, it is necessary to use foam plastic with a thickness of at least 50 mm, if necessary, it can be laid in several layers

3. Extruded polystyrene foam. This is a good insulation for these works, as it is durable, not afraid of moisture, does not burn and keeps its shape well. A sufficient layer of material is 5–10 cm. Extruded polystyrene foam has a low vapor permeability, therefore, to create in the attic comfortable conditions it is necessary to properly make the supply and exhaust ventilation, and this is additional time and costs. In addition, its price is higher than that of conventional foam.

   When insulating the roof with extruded polystyrene, good ventilation is necessary

4. Polyurethane foam. For installation, special equipment is used, which allows you to apply the material without cracks and gaps. It has good thermal insulation characteristics, low weight, does not burn, moisture-proof, but its disadvantage is low vapor permeability. Without organization forced ventilation being in such a room will be uncomfortable due to high humidity.

   It will not be possible to carry out work on insulation with polyurethane foam on your own, as professional equipment is needed

5. Ecowool. This is the most suitable material for attic insulation. It is also applied without gaps, penetrates into all cracks and fills them well, is not afraid of moisture, does not burn, is light in weight and has good vapor permeability, and is environmentally friendly. In addition to the fact that the cost of this material is high, it will not work to insulate the attic with ecowool on its own, therefore, specialists will have to be invited to perform these works.

   Special equipment is used to apply ecowool

6. foil materials. They not only insulate the room, but also reflect heat. In order for such materials to effectively fulfill their purpose, the mirror layer must be directed inside the attic. A gap of about 5 cm is left between the insulation and the vapor barrier.

   Foil insulation is used for hydro, heat and sound insulation.

In each case, the choice of the most effective insulation for the attic must be approached individually. When using mineral wool, the heat-insulating "pie" can be disassembled, the condition of the rafters assessed and, if necessary, carried out repair work and then put everything back in place. If sprayed materials were used, then it will not be possible to inspect the rafters.

The better to insulate the roof of the attic from the inside

When choosing materials for attic insulation from the inside, the climatic conditions in which the house is located are taken into account. Each material has its pros and cons. The most popular and affordable material with which the attic is insulated from the inside is basalt wool. Installation is carried out in several layers, while overlapping the seams. Usually a layer 15–20 cm thick is sufficient.

Basalt wool is laid in several layers

Professionals often use polyurethane foam. It has high adhesion, so after application there are no gaps left. Polyurethane foam has high thermal insulation characteristics, so it is applied in a smaller layer, unlike other materials, which will need much more. But keep in mind that the cost of this material is high and installation will not work without special equipment. Expanded polystyrene plates are often used, the thickness of the required layer will depend on the density of the material used.

If you are insulating the mansard roof from the inside yourself, then it is best to use expanded polystyrene, basalt or mineral wool, as they are simply mounted. Often they are combined: first mineral wool is laid, and then expanded polystyrene plates.

How to properly insulate the roof of the attic

The technology for carrying out these works is not difficult, especially if the insulation is performed with mineral wool. During the installation of thermal insulation, personal safety measures must be observed: be sure to wear tight and closed clothing, use goggles, gloves and a respirator.

Work sequence:

1. Preparatory stage. All wooden surfaces are well treated with antiseptics, metal parts are coated with anti-corrosion impregnation.

   Treatment of wooden roof elements with an antiseptic can significantly increase their service life.

2. Waterproofing attachment. A waterproofing film is fixed on the rafters, and a crate is mounted on top. The waterproofing material is overlapped between the crate and the rafters, all seams are glued with a mounting film, for example, Ondutis BL or Ondutis ML. First, the tape is attached to the canvas located below, it is done 5–6 cm from the edge, then the protective layer is removed from the tape and the upper canvas is fixed. Laying material is carried out from the lower slope of the roof. First, the film is fixed with a stapler, and then wooden counter-rails are installed to create a ventilation gap. You can fasten the slats to the rafters with nails or powerful staples, but it is better to do this with self-tapping screws. Then proceed to the installation of insulation.

   Laying of insulating layers is carried out in a certain sequence.

3. Heater installation. The insulation is laid between the rafters, work starts from the bottom and gradually moves up. In order for the insulation to fit snugly, its size should slightly exceed the distance between the beams. To fix the insulation, special anchors or frost-resistant glue are used. This applies to roll and plate insulation, such as mineral wool, polystyrene foam and polystyrene foam. Ecowool and polyurethane foam are applied using a special installation, so there are no unfilled voids.
4. Vapor barrier attachment. After laying the last layer of insulation, the installation of a vapor barrier is carried out. It attaches to wooden crate laid on a heat-insulating layer. Do not stretch the vapor barrier membrane too much, it should sag by 2–3 cm, this will ensure that there is a ventilation gap between the thermal insulation and the exterior finish.
5. The final stage is the installation of finishing materials. To do this, a crate is made over the laid vapor barrier, you can use wooden slats or metallic profile, and already on it, with the help of special screws, sheets of drywall, plywood, chipboard or lining are fixed.

   Installation of drywall is carried out on a metal or wooden crate, which is attached to the rafters over the vapor barrier

When installing the insulation, the plates should be tightly adjacent to each other, and to eliminate cold bridges, it is recommended to lay a second layer with overlapping joints.

Useful tips for choosing and installing various types of insulation:

• if mineral wool or fiberglass is used, then to ensure high thermal insulation characteristics, their layer should be 15–20 cm;
• basalt wool can withstand temperatures up to 1000 ° C, does not absorb moisture, but it is damaged by rodents;
• A 2.5 cm layer of polyurethane foam in terms of its thermal insulation characteristics corresponds to an 8 cm layer of mineral wool;
• A 15 cm layer of ecowool in terms of thermal insulation characteristics corresponds to a 50 cm wood;
• so that the rolled or slab material fits snugly between the rafters, its width must exceed the distance between them by 1–2 cm.

Features of installing insulation for a mansard roof

When designing a building with an attic floor, it is necessary to correctly calculate the distance between the rafters in order to ensure maximum structural strength. When installing insulation between the rafters, it is necessary to lay the material back to back so that there are no gaps left, otherwise cold bridges form.

Only correct styling of all elements will effectively insulate the attic

During the installation of waterproofing, all work is carried out from the lower slope of the roof and the material is overlapped. On top of the insulation mats, it is recommended to lay another continuous layer that will completely cover the rafters. Wooden or metal rafters have a higher thermal conductivity than insulation and are cold bridges. If they are closed with insulating material, it will be inconvenient to mount the finishing elements. To simplify this task, it is necessary to mark the location of the rafters during the installation of the last layer of insulation.

If we talk about the insulation of the mansard roof from the inside, then not all materials are convenient to install, it is almost impossible to lay roll insulation normally. To strengthen the rafter system, various connections are often used, which complicate the laying of the insulation layer.

Video: attic roof insulation from the inside

Insulation of the pediment of the attic from the outside

When insulating the pediment from the outside, most specialists and home craftsmen use extruded polystyrene foam or ordinary foam. To perform these works, scaffolding will be needed, since doing everything with the help of a ladder will be difficult, long and tiring.

The technology of warming the pediment from the outside consists of the following steps:

1. First, the walls are prepared. To do this, they are cleaned of dirt, and then primed. The primer will allow the adhesive to show its characteristics better. It is recommended to prime in two layers, the second is applied after the first has dried.
2. If you plan to use a finishing material such as siding, then for its fastening it is necessary to make a crate. She may be from wooden beams or galvanized profiles. The height of the crate should correspond to the thickness of the insulation used.

   To make it easier to install the foam, the step of the crate should be equal to the width of the sheet, then the material will lie tightly and the waste will be minimal

3. The foam sheet in the corners and in the center is smeared with glue and pressed for 30-35 seconds to the surface of the gable.
4. If the foam will be plastered, then it is better to additionally fix it with plastic dowels.

   If the foam will be plastered, it must be fixed with dowels, and if siding is mounted, then it is enough to fix it only with glue

5. After laying the insulation, a waterproofing film is attached. If the crate is wooden, then this is done with a stapler, and it is fixed to the profile with the help of a counter-crate, on which the siding is then attached. To create a gap between waterproofing and decorative trim the thickness of the crate should be 20–30 mm.
6. On last step siding is being installed or the foam is plastered, and then painted.

   Both metal and vinyl siding can be used to finish the gable.

Video: attic gable insulation

It is not difficult to insulate the attic with your own hands, it is enough to have basic knowledge and skillful hands. If we talk about the insulation of the pediment, then when using a hinged facade, it is better to take such heat-insulating material as mineral wool. If the facade is wet, then it is better to insulate with foam. Only with the observance of the developed technologies and the correct implementation of the stages of work on the insulation of the attic, the expected result will be obtained. If everything is done correctly, then you can use the attic as a living space throughout the year.

The question of which insulation is best for the attic is relevant for those who decide to equip a living space under a high pitched roof of a private house. The attic differs from the usual room of the house in increased heat loss. This is due to the fact that usually it does not have capital external walls without window openings, and on both sides and from above the room is separated from the street only by a roofing system of small thickness.

Mineral wool insulation

Criteria for choosing a heater for the attic

High-quality insulation allows you to make the attic suitable for year-round use. When choosing a heat insulator, it is necessary to pay attention to the performance characteristics of the materials, including comparing:

• soundproofing properties;
• ease of installation;
• moisture resistance;
• resistance to biological destruction;
• lifetime;
• profitability;
• environmental friendliness;
• fire safety.

But the main quality by which the material for insulation is evaluated is its coefficient of thermal conductivity, on which the ability to retain heat in the room depends.

From the point of view of ease of installation and use of insulation, preference should be given to universal materials. If the same heat insulator can be used for walls, roofs and floors, the insulation of all structures will last the same period.

Soundproofing properties are a particularly important parameter if the roofing is made of metal (folded roof, metal tiles, corrugated board). Gusts of wind, rain and hail make such a roof “sound”, and staying in the attic will cause discomfort.

Since the roof frame is usually made of wood, it is desirable to use a fire-resistant and non-flammable insulation. Otherwise, an accidental fire will lead to the fact that the entire attic and roof will quickly be engulfed in fire.

To on wooden structures truss system and gables did not form condensate and the insulation did not lose its thermal insulation properties due to moisture penetration, it is necessary to insulate the attic room with vapor and moisture-proof material, or use reliable hydro and vapor barrier. This affects the speed and complexity of the installation of the insulating layer, affects the preferences when choosing a material.

Insulation thickness

Table 1. The dependence of the thickness of the insulation on the coefficient of thermal conductivity

The manufacturer indicates the thermal conductivity coefficient on the packaging of the material. This indicator depends on the production technology and the density of the insulation. The table below shows the average values:

Table 2. Thermal conductivity coefficients of some heaters

Polyurethane foam and ecowool are modern materials that can be used as a heat insulator for attic rooms, but their installation requires the use of specialized equipment, the invitation of specialists. The rest of the popular heat insulators are available in the form of plates or roll materials of various densities and thicknesses.

The insulation is cut along the width of the span between adjacent rafter legs (or the gap between the laths of the lathing on the walls) and inserted by surprise. If the calculated thickness of the heat-insulating layer exceeds the width of the rafter leg, bars of a suitable section are stuffed onto the rafters from the side of the room.

Two-layer insulation is considered the most effective - after the gaps between the rafters are filled with a heat insulator, another layer roll material(possible with a foil vapor barrier outer surface) is attached over the rafters with continuous joined strips. This will prevent the formation of cold bridges.

Let us consider in more detail the main pros and cons of popular heaters that are suitable for thermal insulation of the attic roof and gables.

Fibrous roll and plate heaters

• glass wool;
• mineral wool;
• stone (basalt) wool.

Their key advantage and at the same time a disadvantage - the ability to pass steam. Theoretically wet. warm air from the attic will leave through a breathable inner lining, heat insulator and roofing system, which will help maintain a favorable microclimate in the room. In practice, there are the following difficulties:

• an increase in the moisture content of the fibrous insulation leads to a sharp decrease in its thermal insulation properties;
• the insulation that has accumulated moisture (especially glass wool) is crushed, deformed, forming cold bridges;
• the wood of the truss system begins to rot from contact with moisture.

To avoid these problems, it is necessary to mount a vapor barrier on top of the insulation from inside the room. And between roofing and thermal insulation must be laid waterproofing material.

Air exchange through fibrous insulation will be carried out only if the waterproofing and vapor barrier layer is made of special gas-permeable membranes. The vapor barrier must allow air to pass through, but retain moisture coming from the room. A gas-permeable waterproofing barrier must release moisture from the insulation, and prevent water from entering it.

Membrane materials are much more expensive than ordinary or reinforced film, roofing felt or glassine. But these investments will justify themselves due to the durability of not only insulation, but also the roof truss system.

If a film is used as a vapor barrier, this will reduce the cost of construction, but this will reduce to zero important advantage fibrous insulation - gas permeability. Perforated film should not be used, as it allows steam to pass through, which will accumulate in the insulation.

Performance characteristics of fibrous insulation

glass wool. To her positive qualities can be attributed:

• fire safety (2nd degree of fire resistance);
• environmental safety (does not contain resins);
• unattractive for mice (do not build nests and moves);
• affordable price.

The main disadvantage is that when working with the material, sharp glass dust is formed, the installation of a heat insulator requires accuracy and the use of protective equipment. In addition, over time, glass wool tends to deform, wrinkle, especially when moisture penetrates.

Mineral wool. The composition of the material includes fibers of various origins (production material - clay, stone, quartz sand, glass, etc.). Mineral wool is characterized by a multilayer inhomogeneous structure with air lenses. Due to this, the material dampens sound waves well. Mineral wool (primarily Isover, Ursa) is recommended for those who decide to make metal roofing.

Such a heat insulator is fire resistant, does not rot, and is easy to install. But rodents can settle in it, whose nests, passages and waste products reduce operational properties insulation.

Basalt wool. Consists of fibers obtained by melting rock. Withstands heat up to 1000 degrees, does not spread combustion. Basalt wool should be chosen carefully, checking quality and safety certificates: some manufacturers, in an effort to reduce the cost of products, use resins that emit toxic substances.

Basalt wool is resistant to fungus, but can be damaged by rodents. This is a good sound insulator, easy to install. But when choosing a material for insulating the truss system, one should take into account the rather large weight of the plates from stone wool.

If you have to choose a fibrous heat insulator, pay attention to the density of the material. The heat insulator should not lose shape even during prolonged use. For mineral, basalt wool, the density index should be about 40-45 kg / m3.

Polymer materials for insulation

We choose a polymer heat insulator for the roof and walls of the attic. This can be polystyrene foam, extruded polystyrene foam (these two types of insulation are available in the form of sheets and plates of various thicknesses), as well as polyurethane foam, which is applied to structures by spraying.

The advantages of polymer insulation include low weight and low thermal conductivity. Such thermal insulation will not overload the truss system and will successfully cope with the task of retaining heat.

The disadvantages of polymer insulation include extremely low vapor permeability. Gas exchange is not carried out through insulated structures, therefore, one cannot do without a well-thought-out ventilation system in the attic room.

Thermal insulation made of extruded polystyrene foam (foam) and polyurethane foam will not let heat and steam pass to roof frame roof, therefore, it is not necessary to install a vapor barrier on the side of the room. Despite the fact that the dew point during the internal insulation of the gables will shift towards the heat insulator, moisture dangerous for wood will not condense.

All joints and junctions of thermal insulation made of foam plastic must be filled mounting foam and (after removing excess foam) are glued with reinforced tape so that the insulation layer is airtight.

Manufacturers produce penoplex of various densities. For pitched roofs and attic walls, where heat losses are high, it is advisable to use slabs with a density of 30-35 kg / m3.

If you decide to choose an inexpensive foam plastic, it is better to install insulation according to the same principle as fibrous board materials. Unlike extruded polystyrene foam with a solid closed cell structure, the foam consists of many individual pellets compressed into a board. Technological pores remain between the structural elements, which are able to pass steam to wooden structures.

A suitable foam density is 35 kg/m3, the material must not crumble into individual balls when broken. Since Styrofoam smolders when ignited, releasing toxic substances and mice easily gnaw through it, this is not the best material for internal insulation.

Polymer insulation for the attic should not be considered as a soundproofing material for the roof - it will not save you from the sound of raindrops. But if you insulate the floor with it, it will reduce the vibration load from steps, creating acoustic comfort in the rooms under the attic.

The selected insulation option will last for many years if you purchase good material and take into account all the subtleties of its installation.

One of the main activities in the arrangement of an additional residential floor in the attic of a private house is the insulation of the mansard roof. To create a heat-insulating barrier under the roof, it is necessary to choose the optimal material and perform the work correctly, on which the quality of the microclimate in the attic room will depend.

Unlike the main building, the attic does not have solid walls, which are a serious barrier to heat exchange with the external environment. The heat transfer resistance of a thin roof tends to zero, so the first feature of insulation will be a thicker layer of heat-insulating material when compared with a similar process on the walls of a house. If the thermal insulation barrier is insufficient, it will be difficult to heat the attic room in winter, and to achieve comfortable coolness during the summer heat.

The first feature of the attic roof insulation will be a thicker layer of heat-insulating material

During the construction of the truss system, they often do not count on an additional load, which can be an array of insulation with subsequent finishing materials. Given this fact, it is necessary to choose thermal insulation with a minimum density, and hence weight. Ideally, when the design of the attic is carried out immediately during the construction of the house, then it is possible to take into account the upcoming loads and make the roof frame with the necessary margin of safety. But this is not always the case. The decision to convert a spacious attic into a living space often comes when there is a need for additional square meters.

When converting a roof into a reliable fence against external influences, consider the features of the roofing material. If the roof is not hermetically closed, pay special attention to protection against possible ingress of moisture and wind load. Also pay attention to the "sound" of the roof. Roofing materials made of metal are very loud during rain or hail, so good noise isolation will be necessary. When deciding how to insulate the roof when arranging an attic room, consider the listed features.

To understand which insulation is best for a mansard roof, you need to know the list modern materials from this series and their performance characteristics, while taking into account the peculiarity of their application in the situation under consideration. Now for warmth building structures use the following materials:

• polymeric (foam, foam, polyurethane);
• produced on the basis of natural raw materials (mineral wool, ecowool);
• composite (varieties of penofol).

Styrofoam is the most popular insulation in construction due to its low cost and good thermal insulation properties

Polyfoam is the most popular insulation in construction due to its low cost and good thermal insulation properties. The priority field of application of the polymer is the thermal insulation of facades. Inside, the foam is used with caution, mainly in technical buildings. It is not recommended to insulate housing from the inside with this polymer, due to the mismatch of the material with fire safety requirements - it is combustible and emits very toxic smoke when burned. Private homeowners often take risks using styrofoam to insulate the inside of living rooms, prioritizing the low cost of insulation and ease of use.

Extruded polystyrene foam or penoplex (commercial name of the material) is similar in chemical structure to foam, but a fundamentally different production method contributed to good result. Penoplex at high temperatures melts, but does not burn, it is much stronger and does not crumble when cutting, it is absolutely immune to moisture. By specific gravity polystyrene matches or slightly exceeds foam (available in various options density). In terms of thermal insulation properties, these polymers are similar, but foam plastic has slightly better soundproofing characteristics. As an attic insulation, polystyrene is a priority, if you choose from these two polymers.

Expanded polystyrene materials are available in the form of plates of various thicknesses

The described materials based on expanded polystyrene are available in the form of plates of various thicknesses. This makes it possible to produce insulation on their own. The third material from the polymer group - polyurethane foam - suggests a completely different technology for its application. It is applied to work surface in the form of a foamed substance, which subsequently polymerizes and becomes solid. To form a heat-insulating layer, special expensive equipment is used to mix several components and apply the resulting substance to the insulated surfaces. Cured polyurethane foam has a cellular structure, low density and good resistance to heat transfer and sound transmission. This material is becoming increasingly popular for thermal insulation in construction, and mansard roof insulation is also made with it.

The most used heaters based on natural raw materials are varieties of mineral wool. The material is produced by forming mats or slabs from fibers of molten minerals. Mineral wool is produced in various densities (from loose material to rigid slabs) and is used both for outdoor work and for thermal insulation from the inside. Mineral wool does not burn, passes steam, is not toxic, retains heat well and does not allow sound vibrations to spread. For internal insulation, which is the creation of a thermal barrier for the attic, mineral wool is a good choice.

The most used heaters based on natural raw materials are varieties of mineral wool.

Roofs can be another natural-based insulation - ecowool. This heat insulator began to be used quite recently. Its basis is cellulose flakes, which are wetted with a special composition and applied to the insulated surface, like polyurethane, forming the necessary layer. Ecowool is used mainly for internal insulation, including for thermal insulation of the roof in the construction of attic rooms. The work is carried out by specialized teams that have at their disposal necessary equipment and know the technology of the process. The thermal insulation layer formed by cellulose flakes has approximately the same performance characteristics as mineral wool. The only difference is the ability of mineral wool to support combustion.

Penofol refers to composite materials and consists of a layer of polyethylene foam covered with polished aluminum foil. It is rarely used as an independent insulation, more often they enhance the thermal insulation effect of one of the materials listed above. This combination is also applicable for attic insulation. In this case, a mineral wool plus penofol complex is often used, which is simultaneously used as a vapor barrier from inside the attic room.

One of the ways to lay insulation is before the installation of the roof, that is, outside

When deciding how best to insulate a mansard roof, it is necessary to take into account not only the properties of the materials, but also the method of their installation. Thermal insulation measures can be carried out before the installation of the roof, that is, from the outside, and from the inside, when the roof is ready. Next, we will consider how to properly insulate the roof of the attic in both situations.

Insulation from the outside - convenient if planned in advance

It is convenient to insulate the roof during roofing work, which is usually done by master roofers. This is done when the attic room is pre-designed. More often in such situations, extruded polystyrene is used as a heater. What is the essence of technology? After the construction of the frame structure of the roof with inside slats are stuffed perpendicular to the rafters, simultaneously forming a crate for sheathing with finishing material from the inside and the basis for laying insulation boards. The use of moisture-resistant foam plastic makes it possible not to use vapor barrier from the inside, you can mount the insulation directly on a wooden crate.

Penoplex plates are tightly laid in the gaps between the rafters, forming a continuous heat-insulating barrier. The thickness of the insulation layer corresponds to the transverse size of the rafters, that is, it becomes maximum. To do this, it is often necessary to lay the foam in several layers, placing the plates with mutual displacement in order to reduce the likelihood of the formation of cold bridges. The resulting gaps between the insulation and the rafters are filled polyurethane sealant. On the top of the rafters and insulation, forming a continuous surface, a moisture-proof fabric is laid and fixed, after which the slats are stuffed for mounting the roofing material.

Ignore the application of moisture protective film, despite the hydrophobic properties of foam, it is impossible, because under the roof there is also, the service life of which the presence of moisture can greatly reduce.

It is much more convenient to make a bookmark of insulation from the outside, but practice shows that far from everyone succeeds in foreseeing the possible arrangement of an attic. If the roof has already been made, it is not advisable to dismantle the roofing material for the convenience of laying insulation, therefore, in such situations, it is necessary to deal with internal thermal insulation. Read about how to insulate the attic roof from the inside in the next section.

Installation from the inside - methods available for implementation

How to properly insulate a mansard roof with a roof installed? The principle of thermal insulation, regardless of the material and technology used, is the same - to fill the space between the rafters with insulation as tightly as possible. This can be done with polyurethane foam or ecowool, but you will have to hire specialized teams involved in this type of activity. With the help of polystyrene foam, polystyrene or mineral wool, you can create a reliable thermal insulation barrier yourself, saving a lot of money.

Consider how to insulate a mansard roof using medium-density mineral wool as a heat insulator, which is available in the form of piece mats. This material will reliably protect the interior of the attic from external temperatures and noise, while being permeable to steam, which will create a comfortable indoor microclimate for living.

The workflow consists of the following steps.

1. 1. If the roof was made a long time ago, most likely, a moisture-proof sheet was not installed under the roofing material. In this case, you need to start by installing a protective film. It will not be possible to attach it solidly, so we cut the canvas according to the pitch of the rafters (a little more) and fix it in the gaps between the supporting bars, overlapping adjacent fragments of about 15 cm.
2. 2. We proceed to the laying of mineral wool. The material is unpleasant to work with, especially when mounted at the top (fine prickly dust falls off), so you should take care of the presence of a respirator, goggles, gloves and a closed suit. We make a pattern of fragments of mineral wool so that they are slightly wider than the pitch of the rafters. By doing this, you do not have to additionally fix the material, it will be held on its own, moreover, there will be no gaps between the insulation and the rafters. If mineral wool is laid in two layers, make sure that the seams between the individual fragments do not match.
3. 3. When all the gaps between the rafters are filled with mineral wool, a vapor barrier must be created from an appropriate film. It is more convenient to roll the canvas perpendicular to the rafters and attach it to the supporting beams with a stapler. Adjacent canvases also need to be overlapped with each other.
4. 4. The last step will be the creation of a counter-lattice (the slats are fixed perpendicular to the rafters), which will become the basis for the installation of drywall or OSB boards.

The attic can serve not only as a place to store all the necessary and unnecessary things - you can equip a bedroom, living room, nursery, study or even a bathroom there. To make the room under the roof itself comfortable, it is not enough to make repairs there and install powerful ones - you need to take care of high-quality insulation. - one of the coldest places in the house, because from above and at least from two sides it borders on the street, and the roof slopes here play the role of not only the ceiling, but also the walls. If you do not insulate the attic, then no heater will help create normal living conditions there, and all the heat will easily go outside. So what insulation for the attic is better to choose than to insulate the walls and roof, and how thick should the insulation be?

No. 1. What should be the insulation for the attic?

Far from every heat-insulating material is suitable for attic insulation, since this is a rather specific room. High-quality insulation should have the following characteristics:

• low thermal conductivity is the most obvious requirement. The material must reliably protect the room from the cold, keeping maximum warmth inside. In addition, it must withstand temperature extremes, be durable, not crack or lose its integrity over time;
• soundproofing properties should be the higher, the more "loud" roofing material is selected. and, for example, during rain and hail they make an unpleasant ringing sound, and high-quality can significantly reduce discomfort;
• moisture resistance. It is advisable to choose a material that would be inert to moisture and not accumulate it, because when water is absorbed, the weight of the insulation increases (hence, the load on all structures increases) and its thermal insulation qualities decrease. If the material is suitable for all other parameters, but is prone to moisture accumulation, then it is better to use hydro and vapor barrier with it - this will complicate installation, but make the insulation more durable;
• fire resistance, especially if the roof frame is made of wood. For maximum resistance to flame, even some flame retardant materials are treated with flame retardants - substances that prevent the spread of fire;
• resistance to fungus and rodents;
• environmental friendliness;
• profitability;
• ease of installation will be a plus, but some very effective spray-type heat insulators cannot be applied by hand.
  

To insulate the attic today use mineral wool, extruded polystyrene foam, ecowool, polyurethane foam and some other heat insulators. It is not recommended to use a backfill heat insulator (for example,), since it will take quite a lot to achieve the necessary thermal insulation qualities. In the mountainous Caucasian regions, even wool- in terms of thermal insulation properties, it is close to mineral wool, but is subject to the negative effects of insects and rodents.

No. 2. Mineral wool for attic insulation

glass wool

Glass wool is cheaper than stone wool, but is used infrequently due to inconvenience in work. Since the material is made from glass waste, it contains small pointed particles that can easily injure the skin and respiratory tract. However, if you work with glass wool in compliance with all the rules of personal protection, then you can inexpensively and efficiently insulate the attic. To the main benefits material include:

No. 3. Styrofoam for attic insulation

No. 4. Extruded polystyrene foam for attic insulation

In terms of popularity, extruded polystyrene foam is catching up with mineral wool. In terms of chemical composition, this is still the same ordinary polystyrene foam, only a fundamentally different production technology makes it possible to obtain material with more favorable performance. The whole point is that regular foam obtained by enlarging microgranules under the influence of steam, and extruded, as the name suggests, by extrusion at elevated temperature and pressure, as well as by adding a blowing agent.

Main advantages:

• high-quality thermal insulation. Thermal conductivity coefficient at the level of 0.029-0.034 W / m K;
• moisture resistance, which is largely ensured due to the structure of the material with closed pores;
• ease of installation, which is ensured by low weight and ease of processing;
• sufficient strength;
• low price;
• mold and rodent resistance.

Among cons not the highest vapor permeability, so you have to approach the attic more responsibly, as well as low resistance to combustion. To insulate the attic, it is better to take expanded polystyrene of the G3 flammability class - according to the standards, it can be used even in rooms with increased fire safety requirements. Since the material belongs to tile insulation, a cold bridge can form at the junction of individual plates, so it is better to take expanded polystyrene with a special lock.

No. 5. Polyurethane foam for attic insulation

Main advantages:

• thermal conductivity coefficient of 0.02 W / m K, and this is one of the best results;
• the ability to create a completely seamless surface, so the problem of cold bridges will be completely solved;
• absolute moisture resistance, which is important for the material that will be used under the roof itself;
• high adhesion to most materials;
• the ability to insulate the attic of the most complex shape - in some cases, the use plate insulation generally impractical, and the foam makes it easy to fill all the cracks and hard-to-reach places;
• high vapor permeability;
• resistance to mold and rodents;
• high speed of work.

Among cons the price and the need to resort to the help of professionals, but all the work will be carried out very quickly. In addition, the ignition temperature of the material is not very high - about 200-215 0 C, and when burned, the material emits toxic gases.

No. 6. Foam glass for attic insulation

When calculating, it is worth considering the heat transfer resistance of all elements of the fence, including the walls of the gables and the roofing cake. It is convenient to use special calculators for this or even turn to professionals. With a certain degree of error, it is possible to make a calculation, taking into account the necessary heat transfer resistance of only the attic coating, because it occupies the largest area among all the external fences of this room. According to the rules, the heat transfer resistance is already subtracted from the tabular or independently calculated value. existing materials, but for a roofing cake this value is very small, so we neglect it.

It turns out that in order to insulate an attic in Moscow with mineral wool (0.035-0.045 W / m * K) (heat transfer resistance 4.7 m 2 K / m), a layer of thermal insulation of 16.5-21 cm is required, depending on the characteristics of the wool, the thermal conductivity is always indicated on the package. In this case, experts recommend making thermal insulation with plates 20 cm thick, and mounting rolled mineral wool another 5 cm thick on top.

Naturally, the attic room is already insulated from the inside, and the practice of combining two types of heaters is common. Properly executed thermal insulation allows you to use the attic all year round and turn it into a full-fledged living space.