Cantilever and Second Floor Inset Air Seal
I have a two story home Dublin Ohio built in 1984. The walls are 2X4 with stucco and brick veneer and roof is asphalt shingles.The north second floor has a 12″ cantilever over the first floor and the south second floor has a 36″ inset over the first floor see attached section.
On cold days my first floor ceiling and second level floor gets cold along the north and south walls. I recently changed a can light along the south wall and was able to snap a picture of the second floor joist bay looking south see attached.
My finished ceilings are textured plaster with crown moulding and various other obstacles like soffits, wall cabinets, etc so I would not want to remove any ceiling.
what would you suggest?
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Replies
raccuia,
Didn't you post this same question a month ago?
For your home in Dublin, Ohio, dealing with cold floors and ceilings, especially along the north and south walls, without wanting to disturb the existing plaster ceilings, presents a unique challenge. The key is to enhance insulation and sealing from accessible points without invasive demolition. Considering the construction details and constraints you've described, here are some suggestions:
Inspect and Seal Gaps: The first step is to inspect for any gaps or leaks around the cantilevered areas and along the exterior walls where cold air might be penetrating. Use a thermal camera or have a professional energy audit to identify cold spots and air leaks. Sealing these gaps with caulk or expanding foam can make a significant difference in preventing cold air infiltration.
Insulate the Cantilevered Areas: Since accessing the joist bays from the inside might be challenging without removing the ceiling, consider focusing on the exterior if possible. For the cantilevered section, adding insulation from the outside might involve removing some of the exterior finish material to install rigid foam insulation over the exposed area of the cantilever. This approach would require refinishing the exterior but can significantly reduce thermal bridging and improve the insulation value.
Blow-in Insulation: For areas where you noticed cold during your inspection, consider using blow-in insulation. This can be done by creating small holes in the ceiling or walls, where strategically feasible, to blow in cellulose or fiberglass insulation. This method is less invasive and can significantly improve the insulation value within the existing wall or ceiling cavities. Special attention should be given to ensure even distribution to avoid settling or gaps in coverage.
Infrared Reflection: In specific areas where traditional insulation methods are not feasible, consider using infrared reflecting paint or plaster additives. While this won't replace proper insulation, it can help reflect some of the radiant heat back into the room, slightly improving the thermal comfort near cold walls.
Window Treatments: Heavy drapes or thermal curtains on windows near the affected areas can also help reduce the feeling of cold by adding an additional layer of air insulation and reducing drafts.
Professional Consultation: Given the complexity of your situation, consulting with a building performance specialist or an insulation contractor who can provide a more detailed inspection and tailored solutions would be beneficial. They might suggest advanced solutions like injecting spray foam insulation in critical areas without the need for extensive demolition.
Addressing cold spots in a house, especially with the architectural features you've described, requires a balanced approach of sealing air leaks, improving insulation, and possibly making strategic alterations to the building envelope. While some solutions may seem less invasive and more straightforward, the effectiveness will vary based on the specific construction details and the extent of existing insulation and air sealing.
Thank you!