vapor barrier in garage ceiling?

BleachCola · 02-08-2008, 06:01 AM

hi,
I am finishing the drywall in my deattached garage and I am starting the ceiling, and insulating it. I am using unfaced batts (got a great deal in bulk) of insulation that is laid in the rafters. Does the attic insulation need a vapor barrier?

If yes, plastic or paper and on which side? if paper, can I use regular brown paper off a roll that you can pick up at Lowes and cut to size? also I will be putting up 8 finished light housings (each one has 4 flurescent bulbs, looks like a classroom light) into the drywall, do the lights need a certain code to be safe to touch insulation or have insulation cover them?

thanks

**AtlanticWBConst.** · 02-08-2008, 07:44 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by BleachCola

I Does the attic insulation need a vapor barrier?

Yes.

Quote:

Originally Posted by BleachCola

If yes, plastic or paper and on which side?

Use a 4 mil Poly film, stapled to the joists - facing the the garage area.

Quote:

Originally Posted by BleachCola

if paper, can I use regular brown paper off a roll that you can pick up at Lowes and cut to size?

No, you cannot use "regular brown paper" off a roll (Rosen paper).
It is not in anyway, shape, or form - a vapor barrier material.

Quote:

Originally Posted by BleachCola

....also I will be putting up 8 finished light housings (each one has 4 flurescent bulbs, looks like a classroom light) into the drywall, do the lights need a certain code to be safe to touch insulation or have insulation cover them?

The lights must be IC rated (Insulated Ceiling).