Expert: Bruce E. Johnson - 1/19/2009

Question
QUESTION: Hi Bruce,
I have purchased an older home in which previous owners converted garage into family room. They did not insulate the attic space nor install a vapour barrier. Is the vapour barrier essential? It is very cool in that room now, and I assume will be hot in the summer, so I need to do something.
Thanks for your consideration.

ANSWER: Hi Carol, If the garage is attached to the house then it probably has the same vapor barriers that the house has in the walls and floor.  Ceiling insulation is the best thing you can do for insulating the room.  Heat rises so any heat will be lost into the attic space without insulation.  I would say that this will help greatly.  sincerely bruce e johnson

---------- FOLLOW-UP ----------

QUESTION: Hi Again,
yes, the garage is attached, but there is not a vapor barrier at all in the ceiling. Do I need to install a barrier (plastic sheeting) before putting in insulation?
Thanks again

Answer
Hi again Carol, a vapor barrier is generally not needed in the ceiling.  If you insulate with a foil or paper backed fiberglass batt then put the foil or paper toward the living area but overall a vapor barrier is not necessary.  I doubt if the house has a vapor barrier in the ceiling.  I hope this information helps feel free to write again regarding this or other matters, sincerely bruce e johnson..bejohnsonconsulting.com