Wassup wit insulation?

For 3 winters we have lived in a house with no insulation. No carpet, just bare polished wooden floors - COLD! This is not uncommon in New Zealand. We have the great Kiwi attitude of:

"Just put another Jersey on Man!"

"Are you lighting a fire already?...Soft!"

However, there comes a time when the extra Jersey just won't do. The government are assisting many families to get their homes insulated and reap the many benefits of a warmer and healthier home. To be honest though, for our family it worked out cheaper if we did it ourselves without the government subsidy. That is not always the case though, so check out if you're entitled, especially if you have a community services card.

Last year we had ceiling insulation installed ($$$) and so this year I decided to have a go at installing Underfloor Insulation as cheap as possible.

So we awoke one morning to a mate dropping off a giant stack of 1200 mm by 2400 mm by 40 mm sheets of polystyrene. I was very apprehensive so enrolled the help of a mate to lead the way. Armed with measuring tape and Stanley knives we attacked the massive pile...and attacked...and attacked!

3 full days of measuring, cutting, gluing on spacers, fitting and crawling around under the house saw it DONE!





Things I learned whilst on the job:

1. Find someone who knows what to do to demonstrate / help you to do the job right.
2. I can do these type of things despite many doubts and misgivings about my D.I.Y skills.
3. Always wear protective gear (mask, earplugs, protective eye-wear)
4. Shift power cords so they are not touching the polystyrene (a fire hazard after a time)
5. If you can afford it...pay someone else to do it :)
   

I must admit the kiwi attitude still reigns supreme. Despite some cold weather (almost winter here in NZ) I walk around bare footed on my newly insulated floor boards, in shorts and a t-shirt. A fire? ...pshh! It's warm as man!

Mind you, the lure of toasted marshmallows may lead to a fire tonight - that's my excuse anyway!