Claire writes from Huntington Station, New York: "Which is the proper way to install R19 insulation? I am putting the insulation on the ceiling of an unfinished basement. Should the paper go up against the ceiling, so when you look up you see pink, or pink up, paper down?"

Answer: The paper should go up toward the living space, sometimes referred to as the warm side in winter. If the basement is unfinished and also unheated, the vapor barrier should be on the side closest to the heated living space above.