Asked on Mar 03, 2012

Any advantages for installing fiberglass batting insulation in the ceiling of a screened porch?

John
by John
I'm finishing off a screened porch that has a Southern exposure. I will be installing 2 ceiling fans to circulate air movement through the area.
Is there any logic for installing fiberglass batting insulation between the rafters? Would it have any effect in reducing the amount of transfer heat coming from the roof and ceiling into screen porch area? Or would this be just a waste time and money. Would there any advantages or disadvantages in reducing the amount heat build-up on the electrical wiring, and recessed ceiling lights?
From Trying to Keep My Cool in Grayson, GA
Trying to Keep My Cool in Grayson, GA
  8 answers
  • KMS Woodworks KMS Woodworks on Mar 03, 2012
    a radiant barrier may be just as effective at a lower cost....if the whole room is screened there should be enough air flow to keep things cool. Misters are another way to reduce air temps. on a deck building note...what is up with big 2x stock being used under the stairs upper landing? When I build deck I start with some good footer then build UP form there.
  • If you insulate the roof, you must supply ventilation, unless you spray foam the roof joists and sheathing then no ventilation is required if done correctly with right type of foam. If you have in the future any plans to make this a year round room, You should insulate. Its cheaper now even if you get little benefit from the insulation now, but will save you a lot more when you eventually convert it to year round use.
  • The new radiant shield barriers are probably the way to go in our market....I'd avoid foam entirely. You can get the panels at Home Depot and they are designed to fit between the framing. There was a local firm at the home show the other week that would be worth getting some pricing from...especially if you are putting a beadboard ceiling in the porch. I'll have to find their info for you...
  • I agree, a simple radiant barrier would suffice here
  • SawHorse Design Build SawHorse Design Build on Mar 15, 2012
    Not sure if you put the shingles on yet, but there are some reflective roofing materials that can be used as well.
  • Jhunt10 Jhunt10 on May 10, 2015
    SUNTUF Polycarbonate Panels reflect the sun load and help prevent heat gain by 50%. You screw them to the rafters. Home Depot in Florida carries them.
  • Jhunt10 Jhunt10 on May 10, 2015
    John. Google this link palramamericas.com
  • Galen W. Yoder Galen W. Yoder on Jul 02, 2016
    I see you have vents in the enclosed sofit. Will the ceiling area in the porch be flat or are you putting the beadboard directly on the rafters? The reason I ask is because I can't see actual roof vents. Roofing Manufacturers are recommending a good ventilation system for attic space to prolong the life of the roof materials, Heat- being the major destroyer!, Also if that heat is trapped, it will attempt to escape ---what rooms are inside the wall that the roof is attached too? Are they Air condition? Will the heat transfer cause the conditions in those rooms to be uncomfortable,(don't forget the reflection of heat from the dark colored roof also), Just some thoughts to ponder, looks like a pretty cool porch--no pun intended!