If you have recessed lighting on the ceiling, then it can get in the way when you would like to insulate the loft since the canisters may get hot enough to ignite the insulation. If you see the letters “IC” published on a canister, however they imply that the fixture will burn cooler than regular fittings and shut off automatically if it becomes too hot. The letters stand for “insulation touch base,” and they’re your assurance that you’re able to cover the the fixture with as much insulation as required to keep your house warm.
Unscrew the the light bulb from a canister until you exhale and look inside the canister. The letters “IC” are verification that the fixture is rated for insulation contact. You may also see the words “Air Tight.” In that case, you can seal it to prevent air from passing between the house and the attic.
Cover the holes on the sides of the canister by stuffing loose fill or batt insulation between the cylinder as well as the ceiling joists in case it’s not an airtight fixture. The holes let you correct the bulb height, but they also allow air to move. Seal the holes with caulk if the version is airtight.
Continue stuffing insulation across the canister to completely close the gap between the ceiling drywall.
Place a waterproof membrane above the fixture to reduce condensation from accumulating on the rear of the canister. Cover the fixture completely using loose-fill or batt insulation, building the insulation until it is the same thickness as that in the remainder of the loft.