Q&A for How to Insulate a Drop Ceiling

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What about simply blowing in insulation (either cellulose or fiberglass) over the drop ceiling tiles?

Community Answer

Not a good idea either. Blown-in insulation begins to settle between 14-30 days after installation. When it settles, it will put all of its weight on the middle of the tiles it's installed over. Your chance of bending/warping tiles will be very high. On top of this, you will have a very high possibility of having fiberglass/cellulose particles enter the air of the space below the drop ceiling. To top it off, if you ever have to replace tiles or do work to any conduit or pipes above the ceiling, you will have a mountain of insulation come out whenever a tile is broken/removed.

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Question

Is it ok to put in insulation without backing when insulating above ceiling tiles?

Community Answer

No, it is not a good idea as it is very possible that some of the fibers may fall into the living space. Without the backing, the possibility is higher.

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Question

Why is the insulating material facing down?

Community Answer

Foil is a vapor barrier to keep moisture from condensing in the insulation. It should always face the living space.

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Question

How do I insulate my ceiling if there's a musty odor?

Community Answer

First, locate and repair the water leak that is causing the odor. Next, clean the affected area with a bleach solution to remove and kill the mildew. Then insulate.

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