inset vs. face stapling insulation

js2318

had a couple of contractor come over and give quotes for some drywall I need hung and finished. The last one asked that I staple all the instulation on the inside of the framing, rather than face stapling everything. Most articles I have found elsewhere, say that face stapling creates a better vapor barrier, and less chance of voids between the drywall and insulations.

Is the contractor just wanting an easier installation since the framing will be exposed, or is there a reason for this?

Also, is there any reason why insulation has jumped in price - other than winter is around the corner, and mfg just want to make more? From last month to this month, most everthing has gone up $5-15. Kraft faced R30 batts went from 40 to 52 (after rebates). Ironically unfaced R30 batts only went up 10 cents?

thanks.

Gary in WA

You cannot glue drywall over the insulation flanges. This is probably his reasoning. Flanges do not have to be on stud edge for vapor retarder: http://www.certainteed.com/additiona..._Retarders.pdf

If you staple inside on stud face, you will lose much R-value: http://oikos.com/library/insulating_...lls/index.html
I hope you caulked all joint around studs to sheathing stopping air: http://findarticles.com/p/articles/m...6/ai_n8582994/

You may still get convective loops for further loss with fiberglass, especially if using box store low density batts: http://www.buildingscience.com/docum...archterm=insul
I hope you air seal the drywall first: http://www.buildingscience.com/docum...wall-approach/

I can't say anything about the prices except fiberglass batt insulation is the worst choice so it is the least expensive.

Gary

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Ron6519

Use unfaced insulation and cap it with a plastic vapor barrier.
Ron

MJW

Yep, kraft facing is not a vapor barrier. It is a retarder at best. Should be stapled inside the studs. Most of the rest depends on your location. Sealing wall cavities can be a bad idea in certain climates.

Gary in WA

If you are thinking about using plastic, check your location first: http://www.buildingscience.com/docum...-for-buildings

Gary

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Ron6519

Part of the sign up procedure should include a region. How many times is the question asked, "Where do you live?"
Ron