*
Although there are similar questions out there I did not want to jump anyones thread. I have gutted (to the rafters and wall framing) the second floor of our 1850’s cape in preparation for a new master bed/bath. Like some other houses described, the rafters are small (3 by 4’s) spaced 3 feet o.c. approx. There is a ridge vent but the soffit vents were closed over by a vinyl siding job. No insulation in roof or walls. The house is built well but I’m sure it has an air leak or two. The question is, what insulation works best in old houses where finding the all the leaks might not be possible? We are looking for good R value and superior sound deadening. Should I open the soffit vents too? We are in Maine are worried about condensation on the inside of the sheathing when we heat the second floor. Thanks in advance.
J
Discussion Forum
Discussion Forum
Up Next
Video Shorts
Featured Story
Framing the floor inside a crawlspace foundation keeps a gable-end addition close to grade.
Highlights
"I have learned so much thanks to the searchable articles on the FHB website. I can confidently say that I expect to be a life-long subscriber." - M.K.
Fine Homebuilding Magazine
Fine Home Building
Follow
-
Fine Homebuilding
Dig into cutting-edge approaches and decades of proven solutions with total access to our experts and tradespeople.
Start Free Trial Now -
GBA Prime
Get instant access to the latest developments in green building, research, and reports from the field.
Start Free Trial Now
Replies
*
J
I would sheet over the rafters with foil-faced polyiso foam board from ridge to rafter plate and blow behind it with densepacked Cellulose. Don't try to insulate down the kneewalls. Keep everything under the rafters within the thermal envelope for better/easier air sealing.
Good airseal and the densepacked cellulose obviates the need for venting (unless maybe you are talking black shingles in texas), though your codes office may not see it that way.
Good luck.
Steve
*
Although there are similar questions out there I did not want to jump anyones thread. I have gutted (to the rafters and wall framing) the second floor of our 1850's cape in preparation for a new master bed/bath. Like some other houses described, the rafters are small (3 by 4's) spaced 3 feet o.c. approx. There is a ridge vent but the soffit vents were closed over by a vinyl siding job. No insulation in roof or walls. The house is built well but I'm sure it has an air leak or two. The question is, what insulation works best in old houses where finding the all the leaks might not be possible? We are looking for good R value and superior sound deadening. Should I open the soffit vents too? We are in Maine are worried about condensation on the inside of the sheathing when we heat the second floor. Thanks in advance.
J