Expert: Dave Johnson - 3/21/2007

Question
Hi Dave
Thanks for your time. I have built a 10' x 10' room in the attic to use as gun storage and reloading. My main concern is humidity & moisture. The room is elevateed to get above the duct work and the walls are freestanding. 2x4 frame and 2x6 for the ceiling. So far I have done 2 walls with R13, but could use R19 or more if needed. I also thought about running either plastic wrap around the inside after the insulation before the the sheet rock, or wrap the outside. I also debated putting up the 4x8 sheets of 1/2" foam board around the outterwalls & taping the seems, or combination of both. I have also considered doing paneling, instead of sheet rock on the walls, but I dont think paneling will give me as good a protection as the SR. I live in AL, so heat is the main factor in controlling the room temp. It will have a vent tied into the central heat/ac and a ceiling fan. There are some many choices I dont know which way to go. Thanks for your help!

Answer
I think the moisture concern can be governed by the heat a/c duct.
As far as insulation use all the glass you want in the walls, and add INSIDE at least 2" of rigid foam before the rock. I realize rocking will be a chore with 2" of foam
but its well worth it!
in your ceiling, usa 12 - 16" of cellulose blown-in. Its really the best. We've found that fiberglass is not much better than a good filter.........
Good luck

Dave