WRONG WAY

USING THE BARRIER AS A FINISH

Novices installing insulation in the basement ceiling are tempted to position the vapor barrier on the underside (the basement side), because it gives a clean look, is easier to fasten, and protects the installer from the itchy insulation. It is wrong, however. Lightweight screening under the fiberglass helps. In an attic, it may seem neater to staple the paper barrier side up, but again, that’s wrong. The barrier needs to face the heated space below.