Expert: Joe Turner - 12/18/2008

Question
I live in a condo in Indiana.  My bedroom is over an completely insulated and drywalled garage but floor and room is always cold. I replaced a light downstairs opposite side of the condo and when I took it down air rushed in. What do I do?

Answer
The room is not insulated. You have air leaking in the ceiling. Your remedies are:
1. Talk to your homeowners association about the problem and see if you enlist tier help in getting insulation added.
2. Have a talk with the builder, especially if your home was built within ten years. The builder might not be required to pay after a certain time but he/she can find a contractor who will do the job at a discount.
3. If all else fails, contact an insulation who specializes in 'blown in' cellulose insulation. They can cut small holes and blow in the product. Before you do this check to see if stuffing some Fiberglas insulation in the leak points will help. The insulation specialist can tell you the correct solution. If you decide this is a small, simple job, go to The Home Depot and ask for advice and a reference at the Contractor's Desk.
JT