Attic Insulation

[ideallude]

I am going to be adding some blow in insulation to my attic which has very little in it now. However, there is no vapor barrier in place. Should I add a vapor barrier on top the the current blown in insulation or just go with out it? The current insulation is only about 3-4 inches deep.

Sean

[suemarkp]

Don't add a vapor barrier, especially if the attic is well ventilated. Your painted ceiling will act as somewhat of a vapor barrier. In most parts of the country, a true vapor barrier is not required on the ceiling. You could tell us where you live and someone who knows more than me could perhaps tell you if you need a better vapor barrier on your ceiling. Even if you need one, you could probably get there by painting one on the ceiling with a vapor barrier paint (assuming it can be painted over existing latex paint).

[ideallude]

I live in the Pleasant Hill, CA (East San Francisco Bay Area). Weather here is not extreme at all, so you may be right that I don't need a full vapor barrier. Any other input is always welcome.