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Advice on rough finished new construction, Zone 5, top floor

user-901114 | Posted in General Questions on

Background: I did what I said I’d never do and bought a big house. I’m trying to house several older family members and my kids at this time in my life and I couldn’t help it. The style, over built owner construction and 8 hard wooded acres hooked me. And the price was right. It’s all finished except for the top floor. Which is where most of my advice will be needed. It’s located in Middlesex County ma.

The 1250 sqf top floor has dormers and 1 skylight.. 2×6 walls and
2×10 rafters with vented soffit and ridges. All the strapping is done. Plumbing and elec is roughed in. Massive chimney in the center. There’s glass batts under the floor decking… The rest of the house is “done”… It’s got an all nighter stove in the basement and a fireplace on the top floor with hydronic radiators heated by oil. There’s are tons of fire wood split and seasoning already with many trees ready for my saw behind them..

Advice needed:
1. How should I insulate it? I’m 45yo and don’t plan on moving till I’m 65. If I ever do..

Here are some pics: https://picasaweb.google.com/107236736120604165034/Farmcape2?authkey=Gv1sRgCOG04_bu9pLf0gE

2. Can someone refer me to a pro for this work? It’s not my first insulation rodeo but I’m not realistically going to be able to DIY it..

Thanks!

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Replies

  1. user-1072251 | | #1

    There is nowhere near enough space to properly air seal and insulate this roof, but the good news is that there are numerous pros in your area that can help you design and implement a good air sealing and insulation strategy for this area. Look for builders and energy auditors in your area with Passive House training (not that you need to go to that level, but they are familiar with PH methods), and builders who have done Deep Energy Retrofits on homes in your area.

  2. user-901114 | | #2

    Thanks Bob. I made a correction. The rafters are 9 1/4. Which will give me a little room for vent chutes and insulation...

  3. GBA Editor
    Martin Holladay | | #3

    Stephen,
    Here is a link to an article that explains all of the different ways you can insulate a sloped roof assembly: How to Build an Insulated Cathedral Ceiling.

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