Insulating over cross support braces

[bzzrd2]

I'm insulating the kitchen of an old home with 2x4 studs. It has 2x4 cross braces on an angle in some of the cavity's. Of couse they take up almost half of the stud in that area. In order to insulate well I see 3 options:

1 - Just put the bat over the brace and let the wallboard compress it into place.

2 - Try and "notch" out the rear of the bat in the area of the brace. (a real pain)

3- Install trimed bat above ane below the brace and put a thinner piece over the brace.

Thoughts on what would be correct? Thanks!.

Almost forgot. I don't think there is any vapor barrier in the ceiling of this old house. We are using 3/8" board over top of the existing ceiling in the kitchen. Is it OK to put vapor barrier over the old board before installing the new?

[David]

Why are the cross braces on an angle? Are they serving a purpose other than bracing? I don't seem them helping any racking forces. So, my I'd consider removing the angled bracing, perhaps reinstalling level bracing.

As for insulating
#1 Do not do this. I don't see how you'll get the wallboard flush. Compressing insulation serverly negates the insulation.

#2 staple the insulation up the brace. Using another 2x4 scrap, pinch the insulation into a sandwich between the 2x4s. Use the scrap as a straightedge and cut.

#3 Not sure I understand it, but it doesn't sound good.



To maximize the effectiveness of the insulation, you want the most continuous runs of puffed insulation you can make. Hence, my first choice is to remove the bracing altogether. My second choice would be to cut the insulation right up to the brace. My last choice would be to compress the insulation.

[bzzrd2]

Thanks David
Not sure why the cross baces are there either but this home is from the late 50's so who knows. I wound up cutting bats right right to cross braces as you suggested and using a thinner piece along the cross brace. The homeowner id not want the braces removed. Any thoughts on the vapor barrier across the ceiling? Thanks.

[MCC]

# 3 Is The Correct Way To Insulate. The Bracing Was Used In These Older Homes Probably Due To The Sheathing Type. You