Richard writes from Shepherdsville, Kentucky: "When I built my house years ago, I insulated the attic with R-19 with the vapor barrier toward the living space. I had bought more than I needed at the time and would like to install the extra R-19 batt insulation over top of the existing insulation which comes to the top of the ceiling joists. Would it be okay to install the extra R-19 batt insulation with the vapor barrier up, or should I remove this vapor barrier? If so, it will be a lot of trouble, dusty and messy as it is still stored in the attic."

Answer: We recommend either removing the vapor retarder or freely slashing it with a utility knife.