Isolate exposed fiberglass Insulation on the basement ceiling

[adirusso]

I have a large basement that I am not planning on finishing for at least a few years. I have exposed fiberglass batts between the wood joists. I would like to cover the exposed fiberglass so that when my kids play in the basement they do not inhale the fibers.

I don't really want to sheetrock the whole thing( 3500 sq ft.) because eventually I will finish it and I like the ease of running wires and making repairs.

I first thought of plastic sheeting but soon realised that this would trap any moisture and possibly cause mold. Then I thought of a Tyvek sheet but fear that that will also trap in any moisture.

Any suggestions on what I can use to cover the ceiling and keep the fibers from going airborne and still letting the ceiling breathe.

[Richard A Hetzel]

How about plain old fabric...find a frabric shop that sells remainders, pick a color the kids like, and staple up there. House wrap would work, because it isn't a vapor retarder, but who wants big red Tyvek signs all over their ceiling?

[concretemasonry]

Richard is right.

House wrap would be best, but it is ugly.

Fabric from a yard store could help, but you never know what is in it.

Dick

[kangdazhong]

hi, I am Mr. Clock Rise. I sell waterproofing breathable membrane, which is made of non-woven fabrics. It is vapour permeable and waterproofing. The same function with Tyvek's product. Wish I can help.

Email:ntkdfh03@vip.163.com

[mjpliv]

Unless you have moisture coming in from the outside then I wouldn't be concerned about sealing off the joist spaces. In fact, sealing them from the stale, moist interior air is advisable.

If you are going to finish everything later you can cut pieces of SM type rigid insulation to fit tightly in the opening. Be carefull not to compress the existing fiberglass batt insulation. A little accoustic sealant will take care of any gaps left over.