Does Attic Insulation Need A Vapor Barrier

Attic insulation should always be installed with the paper backing facing toward the living space the ceiling in this case.

Does attic insulation need a vapor barrier.

If your climate does not meet these conditions a vapor retarder like latex ceiling paint will work well for your house if you are in all other climates except the hot dry and hot humid. The following are a few simple steps to help you undertake the task properly so your vapor barrier retains heat without damaging the insulation. You do not need a vapor barrier. This acts as a barrier to keep heated moist air from rising up into the attic during cold weather.

Not every wall does. The best approach for a vented attic in a cold climate is installing a layer of drywall with a good coat of latex paint the paint creates a semi permeable vapor barrier. A plastic vapor barrier is best installed in a vented attic within climates with over 8 000 heating degree days. Since you already have insulation if there was a moisture problem you probably would have noticed signs of it already.

The insulation fiberglass or cellulose is then placed on top of the drywall with no vapor barrier above or below. Several layers of paint on the ceiling would qualify as a vapor barrier. If you read the brief it points out the major concern with moisture in insulation is air leakage. Whether or not you need a vapor retarder hinges on three main factors your climate your home and the location of the wall you re insulating.

Most forms of attic insulation benefit from the addition of a vapor barrier to protect them from the harmful effects of moisture which can reduce their effectiveness over time.