Replacing drywall, do I need to replace the insulation?

RyanD · 06-10-2009, 06:40 PM

So since the walls are so poorly done I've decided to rip them down and do them over. While I have the walls down to studs should I replace the insulation? It looks okay, I think it says R-13 3.5" which I think is standard so I seem no reason to unless I'm missing something. What else should I do(if anything) now that I have access to the studs?

Also, any suggestions for a knee-wall? I want to drywall that and remove the board look.

Wildie · 06-10-2009, 08:27 PM

Insulation doesn't deteriorate! If moisture gets in there and it becomes moldy, it has to be replaced. Otherwise, its fine!
I think it would be a good idea to use a plastic vapor barrier to give it a better seal and to stop any outside air infiltration.
If you do so, the v/b on the insulation should be perforated!

jimmy21 · 06-11-2009, 01:27 AM

Insulation should be fine but you are required to update the electrical

Just Bill · 06-11-2009, 07:22 AM

What jimmy said. Not sure if it is required, but I don't see an outlet on that wall. There should be at least one, depending on the width.

RyanD · 06-11-2009, 09:46 AM

Even in the basement? Is this code?

06-10-2009, 06:40 PM	#1
RyanD Member Join Date: Mar 2009 Location: Massachusetts. Posts: 189	Replacing drywall, do I need to replace the insulation? So since the walls are so poorly done I've decided to rip them down and do them over. While I have the walls down to studs should I replace the insulation? It looks okay, I think it says R-13 3.5" which I think is standard so I seem no reason to unless I'm missing something. What else should I do(if anything) now that I have access to the studs? Also, any suggestions for a knee-wall? I want to drywall that and remove the board look. Attached Thumbnails

06-10-2009, 08:27 PM	#2
Wildie Member Join Date: Jul 2008 Location: Canada (s/w ON.) Posts: 2,294	Replacing drywall, do I need to replace the insulation? Insulation doesn't deteriorate! If moisture gets in there and it becomes moldy, it has to be replaced. Otherwise, its fine! I think it would be a good idea to use a plastic vapor barrier to give it a better seal and to stop any outside air infiltration. If you do so, the v/b on the insulation should be perforated!

06-11-2009, 01:27 AM	#3
jimmy21 liscenced electrician Join Date: Jul 2008 Location: Oregon coast Posts: 945	Replacing drywall, do I need to replace the insulation? Insulation should be fine but you are required to update the electrical

06-11-2009, 07:22 AM	#4
Just Bill Member Join Date: Dec 2008 Location: Wilmington, DE Posts: 3,098	Replacing drywall, do I need to replace the insulation? What jimmy said. Not sure if it is required, but I don't see an outlet on that wall. There should be at least one, depending on the width.

06-11-2009, 09:46 AM	#5
RyanD Member Join Date: Mar 2009 Location: Massachusetts. Posts: 189	Replacing drywall, do I need to replace the insulation? Even in the basement? Is this code?

Replacing drywall, do I need to replace the insulation?