Exposed Insulation in basement

[maviss]

I have exposed insulation in my unfinished basement on the ceiling and on some of the walls. I have forced hot air heating and I am concerned that fiberglass fibers are getting into the air of the house. I am wondering if I should cover the insulation with plastic or should I use tyvek? I cannot afford to finish my basement at this time and need a quick fix for the insulation problem. Thanks!

[craig@pioneer]

Maviss:

Insulation is not our specialty, and it comes in many forms. So without seeing it I would not want to offer advice. However, there are many types of coverings on the market that can be used to cover existing insulation, and/or tie it back.

I think you biggest concern would be that you don't want to create a double vapor barrier if your insulation has one already.

You may want to contact an insulation installer in your area. Or search the web for someone like us. You may want to check www.basementdepot.com for a contractor. There are many qualified companies who paerticipate on that site.

craig@pioneerbasement

[maviss]

I have pink fiberglass insulation on the ceiling and walls and it does have a vapor barrier (paper) on one side facing the ceiling (subfloor). What type of covering would you reccomend rather than a vapor barrier? I just have no idea what i could use to cover the insulation with. Thank you for your help!

[craig@pioneer]

Maviss:

I would contact a local insulation dealer or even a building supply house that deals with these types of membranes.

You could try www.basementdepot.com and ask a question in their knowledge base. There are a lot of contractors that use that site.

craig@pioneerbasement