Question:

Hi, I'm just about to put up the vapor barrier in my basement. The joists are fully cast in and as I understand, the header area should not be insulated to prevent the floor above from becoming cold around the perimeter. Also, as I understand, all of the plumbing and pipes should be on the warm side of the vapor barrier. The problem is I cannot get the vapor barrier behind the piping leading to the radiators on the main floor as the joists are cast in. What do I do in this case with the vapor barrier? Thanks, Alex

Answer:

One of the most important places to insulate inside the house actually is the rim joist/headers around. They should be at least insulated with R20 insulation and then covered with vapor barrier. 20% of a house energy is lost through that area. The vapor barrier is to be flipped up in to the spaces and fastened, it is vitual impossible to get it to marry into the vapor barrier of the floor above because the floors sheathing is there. It is important though that all pipes and duct work are kept on the warm side of the vapor barrier.

Answered By: Sam Marrello

More Questions & Answers ...