havelockwool logo
havelockwool logo

All articles

Installation

How do install blown-in insulation at the proper density?

In order to ensure you are installing the wool at the appropriate density it is best practice when using the blower for the first time to measure the volume of the stud bay (in inches - (depth * width * height)/1728) to get the total cubic foot volum

How Do I Return the Blower?

Step 1 - Reattach blower inside box (using supplied bolts). Step 2 - Place the 2 additional hoses and all hose clamps into the box. Step 3 - Replace lid and secure tabs. Step 4 - Call Fedex for pick up @ 1 (800) 742-5877   ***a UPS return label is al

How do I install Havelock Wool?

Havelock Wool installs like other insulation products, except you don’t need gloves, a mask or protective clothing.  Wool batts fit into cavities on friction and our loose-fill product (blown-in) is blown behind an insulation retainer mesh using a si

How do I cut the insulation?

A long, non-serrated insulation blade is preferred. You can also make an insulation cutter out of scrap wood and a door hinge- see video starting below at 50 seconds in. A good example of the blade we prefer is HERE.

Do you have any videos showing installation of your home insulation?

Yes. Please see below for a complete overview of batt and blown-in installation. Our YouTube channel also has these videos separated out…. blown-in installation and batt installation.

How do I measure for the correct amount of home insulation?

There is a step-by-step process on our blog here.  In short, every space to be insulated should be measured (length x width = square footage) and the cavity depth should be noted for each area (Note a 2x4=3.5” and a 2x6=5.5"). On each batt product pa

Do I need a vapor barrier when using your home insulation?

Short Answer: We recommend a vapor open-air barrier with Havelock Wool. You should not use a traditional vapor barrier. (Always check local building code too.). Some details :. A vapor barrier limits the movement of water vapor through walls. Differe

Is it a problem that I have metal studs in the walls?

Metal Studs are no problem, our insulation is a full 16" wide so it will fill the entire cavity. The only difficulty you may experience during installation is metal studs don't tend to "friction fit" the way wood does so you will need to use some ins

How heavy is wool insulaton?

Depends on size but bags weigh between 20 and 40lbs on average.

Who installs your product?

DIY to professional installers and everything in between. We have a growing network of Wool PRO installers across the country who are experienced with our products and can help with your project. Reach out to us at [email protected] and we’ll co

How do I install your product?

See our YouTube channel here and have at it. https://www.youtube.com/@havelockwool975

Do you have install videos?

Yes. Youtube is the best resource to find videos.

Why don't installers know about your products?

We have a growing network of Wool PRO installers across the country who are experienced with our products and can help with your project. Reach out to us at [email protected] and we’ll connect you with a Wool PRO in your area.

Is installation hard?

No. Some say it is borderline fun. No protective clothing is needed and our new batts install the same or easier than other forms of batt insulation.

How long does it take to install?

Havelock PRO batts install on friction. Professional installers tell us it installs at the same speed or faster than Rockwool and hemp.

Will your batts cut with a razor blade?

No. A long, non-serrated insulation blade is preferred. You can also make an insulation cutter out of scrap wood and a door hinge- see video starting below at 50 seconds in. A good example of the blade we prefer is HERE.

Can you measure for me?

No. We do not take measurements, only because we don't want to get it wrong and aggravate you and your purchase requirements!. There is a step-by-step process on our blog here.  In short, every space to be insulated should be measured (length x width

I have plans, can I send them to you?

No. We can only get this wrong by sending too much or not enough insulation. The take-off should be done by you, your builder, or an insulation installer.

How much insulation do I need for a 1200 sqft house?

It depends on wall sizes and thicknesses. There is a step-by-step process on our blog here.  In short, every space to be insulated should be measured (length x width = square footage) and the cavity depth should be noted for each area (Note a 2x4=3.5

The loosefill coverage chart has 2 installed heights. Why?

Attics may install differently than walls as the product tends to overfluff. It is important to install the prescribed amounts in each application

How long is the blower hose?

Hose length is 20' on our DIY blowers.

How long can I rent the blower?

2 weeks

How do we send the blower back?

Email [email protected] for a return label.

Can I do drill and fill in my walls?

Yes though we suggest removing an 18" section across the wall to add insulation above and below.  Drilling a whole and blowing insulation into a blind spot is not necessarily a best practice.

What do I cut the product with?

A serrated insulation knife or shears work well to cut our batts.  An example can be found and ordered here. A jigsaw also works well with the right blade.  See here for what is required; 100mm length is our favorite.

Can I use a blower for cellulose or fiberglass?

No, those blowers are specifically designed for aerating short, weak fibers. In contrast, Havelock Wool fibers are long and exceptionally strong. Unfortunately, our wool fibers have a tendency to wrap around moving components such as hoppers, agitato

What does OC mean?

On center. Stud cavities are typically 16 or 24" on center which is measured from the centers of the stud. The cavity is typically 1.5" less.

I have 2x8's, can I use batts?

Yes. You will need to double up.

I need R49, can I stack batts?

Yes

Do I have to use blown-in in the attic?

No, blown-in is certainly quite easy to install in attics but has wide spread use in exterior walls of high performance homes. Commonly called a BIBS system by the pro’s (blown in blanket). Its higher value makes a compelling argument for use in the

Do I need a vapor barrier for X aplication?

Vapor (closed) barriers should be reserved for covering the ground in a crawl space.

Your blog says I don't need a vapor barrier but my codes say otherwise.

Smart vapor membranes that are both air tight and vapor open have no downsides.

Does your product slump?

No. Wool is less prone to slumping.

Can I drill and fill?

While drilling and filling is an option, we recommend a more effective approach. Instead of making holes in each cavity, consider cutting a 24" section of wallboard across the center of the wall. This method provides clear visibility both above and b

Can I use a blower from HD?

No

What is drill and fill?

See above for best practices.

What is the cost to install your products?

Batts are the same or faster than Rockwool. Loose-fill requires slightly more time than cellulose for a skilled professional

Is the insulation mesh a vapor barrier?

No.

Can I buy and build my own blower?

Yes.  There is a PDF on our site that details the process.  To get started you will need the following items:. The blower. Details HERE. And hose. Details HERE. A 5in to 4in Reducer. Details HERE. A 4in to 3in Reducer. Details HERE. Duct tape and hos