DIY Cabin Insulation

Cabin insulation is not the most exciting to write about or look at for a cabin, but it’s still a pretty major step in our build. Last time I posted we had finished off the electrical wiring, interior framing, and the loft floor. The next step to closing in the cabin was to add the insulation to keep some heat inside!

Cabin Ceiling insulation

For the ceiling, we used five inch thick foam insulation. We bought it used off kijiji so it’s a little dirty and torn, but it still works fine. Tony cut the foam insulation on the table saw to the right width and we pushed them up between the roof rafters. Once all the foam was in, Tony used cans of spray foam to fill in the rest of the cracks. This ceiling gives an R value of about 25. This will be a year round cabin so we wanted to make sure it will stay warm in the winter. 

 

Cabin Wall Insulation

For the wall insulation, we used Rockwool insulation. This insulation is mold and mildew resistant, fire retardant, and has a higher R value compared to the pink fiberglass insulation. It is also made of recycled material so is a greener option. 

Insulation is a pretty easy job to do, except that I found it a little itchy. The insulation comes in batts that fit between studs that are spaced 16 inches apart. Once you open the bag, gently place the batts between the studs. You don’t want to stuff it in, just make sure that it fills the entire space. For smaller areas, just cut the bats with an insulation knife.  It’s a good idea to wear a mask and gloves when you insulate. 

Kitchen Ceiling

I also finished the kitchen ceiling the same way as the bathroom ceiling. I used tongue and groove pine that we will be using for the walls and just nailed it into the loft joists above.

NEXT STEPS

 I’ll still need to do the vapor barrier over the wall insulation, but first I’ll be installing the pine tongue and groove paneling on the ceiling. Tony will work on plumbing, install the rest of the ceiling lights, and work on the propane stove. 

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CABIN DESIGN AND PLAN

PHASE 1: SITE PREP AND EXCAVATION

• Trench for water line and electrical
• Basement, gravel pad, blocks, and beams
• Pond and driveway

PHASE 3: CLOSING IN THE CABIN

• Tin roof and tiny cabin exterior framing
• Housewrap, cabin windows, and exterior door
• Exterior siding

PHASE 4: INTERIOR FINISHING

• Electrical wiring, interior framing and loft
• Cabin insulation

PHASE 5: FURNISHING