Kraft faced vs Encapsulated fiberglass
Trying to figure out the difference between Kraft paper faced and completely encapsulated fiberglass insulation (plastic on both sides).
Same R value and it cost the same at the local building supply place. It seems that it would be easier to work with encapsulated insulation even though it seems that most builders uses Kraft faced.
Would be interesting to hear your opinion.
Replies
If i'm thinking about the same thing you are, I think that is just an itch free thing. Seems like it would be great until you have an odd sized cavity.
I always thought it was more expensive so I never used it.
the completely wrapped product wants to stay round in the corners of the stud bays and so you'll get empty air spaces in each corner of each bay that will allow convection air flow and negate your insulation value.
it's only the same R value when ideally installed and it's about impossible to properly istall it.
The kraft paper is a vapor barrier. The plastic on encapsulated fiberglass is punctured so as not to form a vapor barrier. The encapsulation in only for reducing fiber exposure for the comfort of the installer.
You could also buy Miraflex fiber which is not encapsulated but has specially shaped fibers that don't cause the itch.
I have to insulate in between the joists with a radiant heat in the floor.
Also I have concrete block wall with stucco on outside and 2"x4" wood studs on inside. We had rain for 10 days non stop - I noticed that concrete block was wet on inside. I was thinking that plastic encapsulated would be better to use in this case...