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dbier

10:34AM | 01/04/99

To> DR HOME

Thanks for the reply regarding my attic venting issue. I think I'll use DAP's new latek expanding foam as it stays somewhat flexible and doesn't over-expand (unlike urethane foams). I have a couple follow-up questions:

You mentioned using a vinyl vent hose - The current one is vinyl (white plastic 4" dryer hose)and runs under the fiberglass insulation to an exterior vent - Does this sound okay? Also, given that the bathroom ceiling is wood lath plaster with a newer layer of 1/2" drywall on top, do you see any need to repaint the ceiling with a paint designed to act a vapor barrier? Do I need to try to remove the frost in the attic (using a heater/hairdryer) or should I just let it dissipate on it's own?

Finally, it turns out that at least half of the soffit vents are currently blocked with fiberglass insulation (which I plan to clear)- How will I know when I have adequate ventalation? Should I keep the gable end windows partially open through out the year?

Thanks for all your help.

dbier

DR HOME

12:22PM | 01/05/99

The vinyl hose is perfect since it condensates less then a metal one. When you clear the insulation from the vents, make sure that you leave a minimum of 1&1/2 inch of space between the insulation and the vents for proper cross ventilation. The minimum requirement for ventilation in a gabled attic is 1/300 of the total area. The most critical are to ventilate in this type of structure is at the very top of the gable. You should have a louvered vent on both ends of the house. This is critical for proper ventilation. Leaving your windows open leaves you exposed to the elements which may cause more damage than good. Unless you have inches of frost built up, I would just allow them to defrost on their own. Vapor barrier paint is not really necessary, unless it will allow you to sleep better at night. A quality semi-gloss paint should be sufficient.
I hope this answers all of your questions.
GOOD LUCK!!!

dbier

07:26AM | 01/07/99

DR HOME> Thanks for all the help!

PS: Based on your username (and your good info) I'm guessing you're a professional - Do you have a web site?