Abletree

Hi Steve, Thanks for the encouragement! Yes, the rafters are at least 2x8's - some are larger. Good tip on the holes, too. I was planning on drilling them this weekend - even bought the drill bits for the job. Before I proceeded, I read up on the codes in our area and there are specific regulations about the size and placement of any holes in the rafters - even specific to the type of wood used in the rafters! Using the holes is not a problem, but I am glad I read that code first. Thanks again for your input. David

Thanks Chad & Chris! I will avoid recessed lights. Thanks for the clarification on "packing". David

Thanks Steve, Chad & Everyone!!! I agreed with you Chad. I definitely will be running design past an architect to confirm structral load capacities, as well as other building code requirements. You mentioned, "I would suggest packing down the framing to provide the space for at least six inches of insulation with foam chases to provide air circulation between the vented soffits and ridge vent." I am not sure what you mean by, "packing down". I am considering adding depth to some of the rafters that may need more space for adequate amounts of insulation. Would it make sense to use the 2x2's running up the rafters, with a high quality 2" rigid foam panel, well-sealed, and then fiberglass insulation to fill the rest of the space, and then the the foil-faced rigid that Chad recommends to overlay across the ceiling? Would I put the vapor barrier/retarder underneath the foil-faced rigid, or as the last layer underneath drywall? And finally, The Icyene option looks neat, but wouldn't that defeat my hopes of putting in my own sweat equity/labor? That looks like a dealer/distributor/installer-only option from what I have read. Thanks for helping the mere novice with your sage wisdom! - David

Hello Everyone! I am new here. I am a novice in construction, but would like to put some sweat equity into a second home I have. Hoping to scale down and live efficiently, I would like this small ranch on a slab to be very energy efficient. I have done most of the gutting and the interior walls and roof has been stripped down to the studs and rafters. The main living area is very open with cathedral ceiling and a hip-roof. It was suggested to me to make the roof a cold roof by installing 2x2's along the rafters and then 2" of high R rigid foam panels sealed between the rafters. A ridge vent and eave vents would provide an air channel. Any tips on this? I live in a cold region. Can anyone suggest a method to use beyond the 2x2's and the rigid foam? There is still some room for more insulation. How would you recommend finishing it off? Thanks in advance, David