Re: [GBlist] vapor barrier question

[Frazer Dougherty <fdougher@optonline.net>]

Thomas - have yr contractors start at one end of the attic and temporarily
remove all the f/g, in order to air-seal any gaps, holes, top of partition
plates, etc..  Best would be to blow to rafter height and criss-cross the
old batts. See what they will charge for this - other wise, replace existing
& blow another 6" to R-38.

1) If you do not air seal, the insulation (new & old) will be compromised.
2) The foil face up, may have been meant to be a radiant barrier - it does
work, especially in cooling climates, but also is compromised by dust, dirt,
etc.

PS: A blower door test with pressure measurements with respect to the attic
will tell you (or your insulator) how leaky the attic is and the
cost-effectiveness of air-sealing the attic.
-------------------------------------
Frazer Dougherty
North Fork Retrofit & Solar Options
Mail: Box 4016, East Hampton, NY 11937
Shipping: 75 Industrial Rd, Wainscott, NY 11975
tel.  631.537.1654
fax. 631.537.1637
cel. 631-645-3534
www.home-performance.org
www.solaroptions.com
Insight '00 #1048, citrus yellow, 61.1 lmpg


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