Installing Vapour Barrier In Attic
To assure proper protection of the vapor barrier you will need to cover the entire area of the attic.
Installing vapour barrier in attic. Vapor barriers in attics should only be installed on one side of the insulation. The insulation fiberglass or cellulose is then placed on top of the drywall with no vapor barrier above or below. The best approach for a vented attic in a cold climate is installing a layer of drywall with a good coat of latex paint the paint creates a semi permeable vapor barrier. This means also the access hatch.
If you are reluctant to use staples secure the barrier with duct tape instead. Never compress or fluff your insulation. You will see on which side is the vapor barrier. Staple it into place.
Since some leakage of moisture into the insulation in inevitable murphy s law you want it to be able to freely escape from the insulation into the attic. Attic insulation should always be installed with the paper backing facing toward the living space the ceiling in this case. Not be trapped inside. Vapor barriers are usually best installed on the side of the wall that experiences the hotter temperature and moister conditions.
Most of the blanket insulation types have vapor barriers incorporated and can be very effective if installed properly. This acts as a barrier to keep heated moist air from rising up into the attic during cold weather. As you work sweep your hand across the surface to push out air and keep the barrier flat.