How do I insulate over an open crawlspace?
My home has an addition that was built over top of a an existing deck. How do I properly insulate itand where should I install the vapor barrier. Previously, there was no vapor barrier - plastic was used to hold the fiberglass insulation in place from the outside which cause it to pool up with moisture. The joist cavitiesare 23" wide.
Expert
Maestro
I am going to assume thatthe deck was built on piers. In other words, the floor ofthe additionsits at least a feet above ground level, and air can travel freely underneath this area. The most viable option, in this case, wouldbe the use of a vapor barrier on the warm side of the insulation (above the insulation) and the use of fiberglass batts between the joists. In all likelihood, some type of material will be required to prevent the insulation from falling. Chicken wire is acceptable, except in the areas where vermin will attempt to get into the insulation and make an nest. In which case, very fine mesh, or thin plywood should be used. The plastic that is there now is acting like a vapor barrier on the wrong side of the insulation. As an alternative, isocyanate or polyurethane foam insulations could be used. In this case, a vapor barrier is not required, as the foam will act as one.
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