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Here are a few things to think about before you install:

• Leave fiber glass insulation in its packaging until you're ready to use it.  Packaged insulation is highly compressed and expands greatly when the package is opened.
• Use continuous rolls in floors because of longer joist spans.
• To cut insulation, lay it on a board with the kraft or foil facing down, if applicable.  Lay a yardstick (or 2 x 4) over the area of insulation to be cut.  Press your straight edge down hard and cut with a utility knife, using the straight edge as a guide.
• Do not compress the product when you install it. The insulation should be in full contact with the studs or drywall on all sides and the front and back.
• Avoid leaving any gaps around the edges or around pipes or wiring.
• Look for specific guidance when installing insulation around pipes and wiring.
• Do your homework to see if you need a vapor retarder.

For additional information, visit http://www.simplyinsulate.com/content/faqs/faqs.html

Think you need more insulation?

According to the U.S. Department of Energy, checking your home's insulation is one of the quickest ways to start saving energy and cutting heating and cooling costs. Follow a few simple steps to see if you need more insulation:

• If your home was built before 1980. Only 20% of homes built prior to 1980 are well insulated.
• If you are uncomfortably cold in the winter or hot in the summer. Adding more insulation creates a more uniform temperature, and increases comfort.
• If you're building a new house or addition, or installing new siding or roofing, it's a lot easier to access the areas that need insulation.
• If you notice your energy bills seem to be steadily rising.
• If you're bothered by noise from the outdoors-insulation helps to muffle sound.
• If you are concerned about the effect of energy use on the environment.

Also according to the DOE, the easiest and most cost-effective way to insulate your home is to save energy. To find out if you have enough attic insulation, measure the thickness of insulation and determine the R-Value.

How much insulation is enough?

Insulation is measured in R-values. So, the higher the R-value, the better your walls, floors and ceilings will resist the transfer of heat. To find out how much insulation is recommended for your area, check the DOE website. Or, refer to the International Energy Conservation Code, which is a more stringent guideline recognized by many states' building codes. Under the Energy Act of 2005, you may even qualify for tax incentives and rebates for insulating above IECC specifications; go here for more information.

Visit http://www.eere.energy.gov/consumerinfo/energy_savers/r-value_map.html or www.ecodes.biz for more information.

When you Thinkinsulation , think more than just attics.

Think about insulating other areas of your home such as:

• basement walls
• floors above vented crawl spaces
• cathedral ceilings
• floors over unheated garages or porches
• knee walls
• in between interior walls (especially bathrooms)
• ceilings or floors for extra sound control

Visit www.knaufinsulation.us to learn more about which fiber glass insulation products are right for your next building project.