Barbara writes from Warren, Pennsylvania: "I have a 1927 house that has an unfinished attic with a pine-board floor. The previous owner blew in insulation under the floor boards, but the insulation is inadequate. I have looked at a lot of websites, but haven't found my situation. Should I pull up the floor and take out the old insulation (how do I know if it contains asbestos?) or can I insulate the unfinished ceiling of the attic running baffles all the way up for ventilation?

"One more thing: I had a new roof put on this past year and instead of putting the roof vent on the ridge, they installed three fans, essentially - square holes in the roof with a cover that ventilate the attic - I assume I should run the baffles all the way up to these vents - how much space do I leave between the vents and the insulation?"

Answer: Your best option is to install new insulation in the rafters. Detailed installation instructions can be found at owenscorning.com on the project page for cathedral ceilings.

With regard to your question about insulation coming in contact with the power vent, we do not have any information about that. We only have recommendations for insulating around can lights which must be IC rated for the insulation to come in contact with them. If the lights are not IC rated, the insulation must stay 3 inches away. We recommend calling the manufacturer of the vent to find out if fiberglass insulation can come in contact with their product.