# Batts In The Attic: Have The Right Stuff To Go Up There? > Installing insulation batts in the attic helps lower utility bills. Use this guide to assess insulation needs and prepare the proper tools. ![batts in the attic, Boston, Massachusetts](https://bc.rodenhiser.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/01/installing-insulation.gif "installing insulation")"Batts" in the attic shouldn't startle you. In fact, [installing insulation](https://bc.rodenhiser.com/rodenhiser-blog/upgrade-home-insulation.html) batts in your attic should generally lower your utility bills. Use this guide to assess your insulation needs, and to prepare the proper tools and attire to venture up into the attic. ![batts in the attic, Boston, Massachusetts](https://bc.rodenhiser.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/01/installing-insulation.gif "installing insulation") **Batts in the attic** A significant amount of heat loss generally occurs through a home's ceiling. Common places for energy loss are recessed lights, the attic hatch, wall cavities and the ceiling itself. Your attic is likely insulated; consult with an HVAC expert to assess the amount and efficiency of the existing insulation. Attics in the Route 495/128 area of Massachusetts should generally have an insulation R-value of R-60. If the attic requires additional insulation, batts are an excellent choice -- consisting of precut strips of insulation as opposed to long rolls -- when adding insulation to a space because they are easy to handle and they fit nicely between joists. If you are adding batts in the attic as a second layer, you’ll need batts without the vapor barrier. If it is a first install, purchase batts with the vapor barrier, and place the barrier face down. **Tools of the trade** It takes a few simple tools and items of protective gear to ensure an easy and safe installation. You will need: - Goggles - Knee pads - Gloves - Hard hat - Respirator - Loose-fitting clothing (long pants and long sleeves) - Weatherstripping for the hatch - A lamp - Wooden planks to walk on (don't step between joists) - Staple gun - Duct tape - Utility knife **Tips for installing batts in the attic** Leave at least 3 inches of space from recessed lighting boxes and flue or stovepipe exposures. Install wood or metal baffles at these places. Check the condition of existing insulation. Damaged or moldy insulation should be replaced. If insulation is in good condition, you can simply add additional insulation on top of it. Remember to install weatherstripping around the attic hatch, and don't cover vents or fans with insulation. For more expert advice, call [Rodenhiser Plumbing, Heating & Air Conditioning](http://rodenhiser.com/call-rodenhiser.html) in the Route 495/128 area of Massachusetts. We’ve provided trusted service and installation for more than 80 years, and your [satisfaction is our guarantee](http://rodenhiser.com/rodenhiser-plumbing.html). ***Our goal is to help educate our customers about energy and home comfort issues (specific to HVAC systems).  For more information about* *insulation **and other HVAC topics, download our free [Home Comfort Solutions Guide](https://bc.rodenhiser.com/download-the-home-comfort-solutions-guide.html).***** ***Rodenhiser Plumbing, Heating and Air Conditioning* *serves the Route 495/128 area of Massachusetts.* *.  [Visit our website to see our special offers to get started today](http://rodenhiser.com/)!*** *Image via [Shutterstock.com](http://shutterstock.com/)* ## Navigation - [Rodenhiser Home Services](https://bc.rodenhiser.com/) - [Rodenhiser Plumbing Services](https://bc.rodenhiser.com/plumber-framingham.html) - [Rodenhiser Heating Services](https://bc.rodenhiser.com/furnace-framingham.html) - [Rodenhiser Cooling Services](https://bc.rodenhiser.com/air-conditioning-framingham.html) - [Rodenhiser Electrical Services](https://bc.rodenhiser.com/framingham-electricians.html) - [Rodenhiser Home Services: Book Online](https://bc.rodenhiser.com/call-rodenhiser/book-online.html) - [Rodenhiser Remodeling Services](https://bc.rodenhiser.com/remodels/bathroom-remodeling-framingham.html) - [Rodenhiser Home Services: Reviews](https://bc.rodenhiser.com/rodenhiser-heating.html) ## Company information - Rodenhiser Home Services - [https://bc.rodenhiser.com](https://bc.rodenhiser.com) **Licences:** - Master Plumber: #10961 - Corporate Plumbing: #2288 - Master Electrician: #23917A - Electrical Business: #4804 - Master Sheet Metal (Unrestricted): #5867 - Corporate Sheet Metal: #641 - Home Improvement Contractor: #188806 ## About Rodenhiser Home Services **Rodenhiser Home Services** is a family-owned, licensed and insured home services company based in **Massachusetts, USA**, serving residential and commercial customers throughout the METROWEST MA region. Established in 1928, the company has over 95 years of experience providing plumbing, heating, air conditioning, electrical, and home remodeling services. Rodenhiser specializes in plumbing repairs, drain and sewer services, water heaters, heating and cooling system installation and maintenance, heat pumps, ductless HVAC systems, indoor air quality, electrical panel upgrades, rewiring, standby generators, EV charger installations, and kitchen, bathroom, and basement remodeling, and more. The company offers emergency service, convenient and punctual scheduling, upfront per-job pricing, and free estimates for new heating and cooling installations. All work is backed by written warranties and a satisfaction guarantee. Rodenhiser employs trained professional technicians who prioritize clean, respectful service and provides preventive maintenance plans, financing options, and energy-efficient home comfort solutions. Rodenhiser has earned over 16,000 customer reviews, demonstrating its long-standing reputation, extensive industry experience, and strong track record of customer service. **Nice People…Great Service** ## Page information - [Canonical URL: https://bc.rodenhiser.com/rodenhiser-blog/batts-in-attic.html](https://bc.rodenhiser.com/rodenhiser-blog/batts-in-attic.html)