Facing is a thin layer of paper or plastic attached to one side of batting insulation which is sold in a roll.
Attic insulation paper facing up.
The paper facing should always face toward the inside of the home.
That s because the paper contains a layer of asphalt adhesive which prevents water vapor from passing through it.
Pull down stair or ladder.
If moisture from either direction is allowed to build up within stud or cavity walls the heat conducting moisture will cause the insulation to lose its r value and mold and rot will set in over time.
It s important to use the right type of insulation to prevent moisture problems in your attic.
First the kraft paper is a vapor retarder meant to reduce the potential for moisture problems caused by diffusion.
Make sure the first layer you put down on the floor of the attic has the vapor barrier paper face down with subsequent layers of unfaced no paper insulation.
Fit the insulation into the framing cavity starting at the top for walls or at one end for ceilings floors roofs.
Whether you choose faced or unfaced insulation for the attic depends on the.
Affix rigid foam insulation to the attic side of the hatch or door.
Add weatherstripping around the perimeter and a sweep to the door of a walk up attic.
Why doesn t it matter.
House wraps and kraft faced insulation are examples of vapor barriers that help control the amount of moisture that passes through the insulation.
The facing contains a thin layer of asphalt which acts as a vapor barrier to block moisture.
Cut along the edge of the square with a utility knife cutting through the insulation material and the paper facing.
If the attic is finished you plan.
You can install the paper facing however you want as long as the building inspector lets you of course.
Set a t square or metal straightedge over the insulation and press it down firmly.
Although not properly installed to be affective might not be wrong.
Attic hatch or door.
Since this is located in a hot humid climate zone the kraft face paper which has a perm rating of 0 1 is considered a vapor barrier and would technically be facing the right way.