Do-it-yourself insulating greatly depends on the location of where the insulation is to be placed (walls, ceiling, attic, floor, foundation, etc.) and the type of insulation that will be used. Adding insulation can be a difficult project that requires attention to detail. Using the incorrect type of insulation for the application, or installing the insulation incorrectly will dramatically reduce the effectiveness of insulation, have the potential to result in moisture and structural damage, and could be dangerous to occupants. Also, some types of insulation can only be installed by certified insulation contractors. If you have an energy audit performed on your home, the auditor should be able to point out some of the particular areas of concern when insulating a home. The main considerations are: ventilation, structural damage and weakness, moisture damage from condensation and/or water leakage, existing insulation, critters, heat sources, wiring and electrical boxes, fans, ducts, furnaces, vapor barrier, recessed lights, balloon framing, dropped soffits, missing wall top plates, and access to eave areas and small spaces. While a skilled do-it-yourselfer or someone with experience in the building trades can likely deal with small retrofit jobs, small or large projects requiring specialized equipment, insulation products, and skills should always be left to a qualified insulation contractor. Because of the unique construction of a mobile home, adding additional insulation should always be done by a professional insulation contractor. ENERGY STAR® Do-it-Yourself Guide to Sealing and Insulating

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