Lucille writes from Acushnet, Massachusetts: "From what I've read I need 19" insulation for where I live. I'm doing the inside roof so I can contain heat in the attic. The problem is my beams range between 8" & 12". Should I add plywood to the beams in order to tack up 19" insulation? I know I have to leave breathing room and this was the only way I could think to do it."

Answer: A total of 19" of insulation would have an R-value of 57. That seems high considering the fact that the U.S. Department of Energy recommends R-49 in most areas of the country but I applaud you for doing all you can to save energy and reduce your home's emissions. Yes, you would need to furr out the framing to 20" to do this under the roof deck. But you should only do this if the attic is a living area that is heated and/or cooled. If not, put all of the insulation on the attic floor.