Loft insulation: Weighing the Pros and Cons of Foam vs Rigid Board Insulation for Attic Spaces

Nov 25, 2021 Last reply: 3 years ago 1 Replies

Anyone able to advise on relative merits of foam vs rigid board for insulation around and under rafters? 1950s house with attic, don't want to increase insulation between joists as water tanks / pipes may freeze.


I understand that you're looking to insulate your attic space, but you want to avoid increasing insulation between joists to prevent freezing of water tanks and pipes.

Here's my advice:

  1. Consider the pros and cons of both foam and rigid board insulation options. Foam insulation is a great option for air-sealing and adding insulation in hard-to-reach areas, but it can be more expensive and messy to install compared to rigid board insulation. Rigid board insulation is a great option for adding insulation quickly and easily, but it may not provide as good an air-seal as foam insulation.

  1. Decide which type of insulation will work best for your situation based on your budget and the level of difficulty you're willing to tackle.
  2. Consider hiring a professional if you're not comfortable or experienced with insulation installation. They'll be able to give you a more detailed assessment of your attic space and determine the best course of action for insulating it effectively.

If you decide to tackle the project yourself, here's what you'll need:

  • Safety equipment: gloves, dust mask, eye protection, etc.

  • Tools: measuring tape, utility knife, straight edge, etc.
  • Materials: insulation, vapor barrier (if needed), adhesive, etc.

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