Insulating

9/15/2012 at 12:26:42 AM

The most economical would be blown in insulation for the attic, just make sure there is proper ventilation. For the walls you can have blown in insulation also, but it requires holes to be made in every stud bay (2 or 3 every 16" along the wall).

Ideally, especially if the siding needs replacement, would be to strip the outside walls. Insulate with batt insulation, you can also upgrade the electrical at the same time if need be. Also add 1-2" of foam board insulation and then your new siding.

For costs your best to have a few contractors take a look.

9/15/2012 at 7:09:42 AM

I guess that I should have mentioned that the walls are insulated, but as it is a panabode style inside the ceiling is vaulted, so no attic?

9/15/2012 at 7:54:41 AM

You may also want to include in your question what the ceiling is constructed of.

9/15/2012 at 8:38:18 AM

The ceiling is tongue and grove cedar.

9/15/2012 at 9:06:35 PM

HI MURRAY

Because of the age of your cottage I'd be interested and want assurances about whats underneath the cedar boards before deciding on what to do. I'd investigate first and than strongly consider removing all the cedar and foaming the cavity if it's going to give you the required RValue or add to the ceiling so that the R-Value is attainable.

As well I'd want to be assured that adequate Space is provided above the insulation for ventilation of humidity and heat. I'd look into very robust ventilation systems like Maximium Roof vents with attached Roof Vents for the vaulted space to avoid ice buildup or overheating.

Good Luck

Norm

9/16/2012 at 1:33:19 PM

Pan-Abodes are solid wood exterior walls and ceiling/roof. No cavities for insulation. If you really want to insulate it you would have to fur out the walls and ceiling with framing and then drywall it etc.

Alternately you could apply rigid insulation to the roof prior to re-roofing.

Dan Brown, RHI

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