Insulating Floors

Uninsulated floors over a crawlspace or other unconditioned area can be uncomfortable to walk on in the winter and an energy loser to boot. Insulating the floor is usually straightforward and inexpensive. The vapor barrier (paper face) should face the heated space (the floor) so when using bats they cannot be stapled as they are when installed in a wall. There are wire clips made for this purpose, but they are awkward and sometimes fall out over time. House wrap stapled to the bottom of the joists will do a great job of holding the insulation in place and will not trap moisture. Look for house wrap, sold under various trade names, at the home center or lumbar yard.

- Stephen Corwin

-- Anonymous, May 04, 2001