Wish I'd known about the painter's tape trick sooner. Last summer, I tackled my attic insulation thinking a hoodie and some cheap gloves would be enough—big mistake. Spent the next two days feeling like I'd rolled around in poison ivy. Definitely second the breathable sleeves tip, though. After that itchy disaster, I switched to an old cotton long-sleeve tee, and it made a huge difference. Masks are a must too, learned that lesson quick after coughing up dust for hours.
One thing I'd add: don't skimp on decent gloves. I grabbed some cheap gardening ones thinking they'd do the job, but fiberglass fibers went straight through them. Ended up splurging a bit on thicker work gloves, and honestly, worth every penny. Sometimes saving a few bucks just isn't worth the misery...
Good call on the gloves—cheap ones are a nightmare with fiberglass. Learned that the hard way when we redid our guest house attic. Another thing I found helpful was using baby powder on exposed skin before starting. Sounds weird, but it seemed to keep the fibers from sticking as badly. Curious if anyone's tried those disposable coveralls? Wondering if they're worth the hassle or just make you sweat more...
"Curious if anyone's tried those disposable coveralls? Wondering if they're worth the hassle or just make you sweat more..."
Tried 'em a few times myself. Quick rundown:
- Definitely helps keep fiberglass off your clothes and skin—big plus.
- Yeah, they do get hot pretty fast, especially in warmer weather or tight attic spaces.
- Make sure to grab ones with breathable backs or vents; otherwise, you'll feel like you're wrapped in plastic wrap after 20 mins.
Honestly though, I'd rather sweat a bit than deal with that nasty itch for days afterward. Another thing I swear by: duct-taping sleeves and pant legs shut. Might look ridiculous, but it keeps fibers out.
Speaking of gear, anybody have luck using barrier creams or lotions beforehand? Heard mixed reviews and never tried them personally...
I've used barrier creams a couple times, and honestly, didn't notice much difference. Maybe I didn't apply enough or something, but still ended up itchy afterward. Disposable suits with vents are definitely the way to go, even if they're sweaty. Has anyone tried using baby powder or cornstarch underneath? Heard it helps with the sweating issue but haven't tested it myself yet...
"Disposable suits with vents are definitely the way to go, even if they're sweaty."
I've found disposable suits pretty uncomfortable for extended attic work, even vented ones. Personally, a breathable long-sleeve shirt and pants combo with duct-taped cuffs worked better—less sweaty and still kept the itch manageable.
