Expert: Dave Johnson - 7/12/2008

Question
our dormer extension is 20 years old.The attic is adjacent to upstairs bedrooms. Attic is well insulated and we have cavity wall but none in extension as it is timber framed.
Upstairs is very draughty and cold and we think the cold air is coming in between downstairs ceiling and upstairs floors. The eaves are VERY draughty but we know you need ventitlation but draughts seem excessive. Any tips on what we can do help the problem? We have thought about using paint additive to paint that is supposed to help with insulation on the walls but don't know if it is any good.
Thanks for your time

Answer
Hi Glenys,
Forget the paint idea... next to worthless.

If the air is entering into the floor space above the ceiling, you obviously need to address that area with batts or blown-in cellulose.
Not being able to see exactly what the configuration is, I guess you'll have to attack it in your own way.  My thoughts are to get at the void by going through the ceiling... I realize this may sound a bit extreme, but the cost of fuels makes it worth doing.
Kep in mind that fiberglass insulation is very poor if cold blowing air can get directly to it, so you'll need to close any openings that go to the outside.
I hope this is clear, if not, please mail me with more detail...
Best of luck,
Dave