719.2.1 Kraft backed insulation materials.

[Papio Bldg Dept]

I recently received a request to accept kraft back insulation in an above ceiling (concealed space), "B" occupancy, Type V-B construction application where the kraft backed insulation is installed 'behind and in substantial contact with the unexposed surface of the ceiling or wall finish.' I was wondering if it was just me, or does the language listed below, suggest that facing exemptions only apply to reflective foil insulation?

(2006 IBC) 719.2.1 Facings. Where such materials are installed in concealed spaces in buildings of Type III, IV, or V construction, the flame spread and smoke-development limitations do not apply to facings, coverings, and layers of reflective foil insulation that are installed behind and in substantial contact with the unexposed surface of the ceiling, wall or floor finish.

 

[Jobsaver]

The kraft back facing is okay, as are other coverings, and layers of reflective foil insulation provided they are in substantial contact with the back of the ceiling.

 

[Papio Bldg Dept]

The kraft back facing is okay, as are other coverings, and layers of reflective foil insulation provided they are in substantial contact with the back of the ceiling.

Thanks Jobsaver. I know it is an okay installation, it must just be me that think that it reads funny. A negative side effect of having two parents who both taught english.

 

[pwood]

read the warning that is printed on every piece of all paper faced insulation, self explanatory.

 

[peach]

don't leave the kraft facing exposed... but if you read the commentary, it will kind of guide you off to when there is a source of ignition, etc. If they remove the paper facing and a vapor barrier is required, you need to start to require poly which is also not supposed to be exposed.. so you start to need require a thermal/ignition barrier.. so you start having "finished basements" when that was never the intention.

 

[Yankee]

don't leave the kraft facing exposed... but if you read the commentary, it will kind of guide you off to when there is a source of ignition, etc. If they remove the paper facing and a vapor barrier is required, you need to start to require poly which is also not supposed to be exposed.. so you start to need require a thermal/ignition barrier.. so you start having "finished basements" when that was never the intention.

Ya but in the northern climate, the facing should be "up" in the joist bays in a basement. Not "down". The reason it gets put facing down is 'cause it is easy then to staple to the joists : /

 

[peach]

really? Isn't the vapor barrier (when required) supposed to point to the "warm in winter" side? We're saying the same thing.. except I was talking about exterior walls.

 

[Yankee]

really? Isn't the vapor barrier (when required) supposed to point to the "warm in winter" side? We're saying the same thing.. except I was talking about exterior walls.

Oh sorry, I was thinking the basement ceiling, yes the kraft gets left uncovered if applied correctly to the basement walls. There is a plastic sheeting that has approve-ble flame/smoke development number, but I have thought that the thickness doesn't qualify it for a "finish" material. I don't know. Exposed kraft is my #1 deficiency found on inspection, both new and existing construction.