Faced Or Unfaced Insulation In An Attic

When local building codes require a vapor retardant faced insulation is one of the best options.

Faced or unfaced insulation in an attic.

Among the many insulation options available for the homeowner there is one that stands above the rest paper faced insulation. This is usually kraft paper but sometimes other types of paper can be used. As you ve discovered since you already had insulation in your attic the layer of new insulation you added should have been unfaced to prevent moisture from becoming trapped between the layers. It is basically designed to keep drywall dry.

Any time you use a faced insulation the paper needs to be facing toward the living space. Paper faced insulation means that one side of the insulation material comes lined with paper. It s important to use the right type of insulation to prevent moisture problems in your attic. The facing contains a thin layer of asphalt which acts as a vapor barrier to block moisture.

Loose fill or batt the common term for blanket insulation. Facing is a layer attached to roll or batt insulation as a vapor barrier to help protect the living space from excess humidity or moisture. Simply peel the facing paper off the top layer of insulation. My thoughts were i would use faced so there would be a barrier for moisture coming from the outside wall.

The kraft paper itself is highly flammable. So in an attic the paper faces downward and in a crawl space it faces upward. The good news is that the solution to your problem isn t that difficult. I don t want a potential mold problem.

Facing is a thin layer of paper or plastic attached to one side of batting insulation which is sold in a roll. If there is already insulation between the joists increase the r value by installing unfaced roll insulation right on top. When to use faced or unfaced attic insulation attic insulation is available with and without a paper facing. The kraft paper on one side of faced insulation keeps moisture from spreading throughout the walls or ceiling.

If i use faced insulation should the paper go towards the outside of the house or the inside. Both can be added to uninsulated attics or layered over existing material. The insulation is against the wall not towards the first floor. Once you ve decided which type is best for you examine the material options and prices to home in on the right product.

For diy attic insulation you ve got two choices. You should only use faced insulation as the first layer of insulation. If your attic floor has no insulation install faced batts or faced rolls between each joist with the moisture barrier facing down against the drywall or plaster ceiling below. However there are also insulations like spray foam insulation that is designed to be moisture retardant anyway when facing isn t required.