What is the best method to seal gaps in tongue and groove ceiling boards?
I have 1x6 pine T&G boards installed on 2x10 rafters. Board shrinkage has occurred to the extent that in a few places I can see the fiberglass insulation's kraft backing. I do not see any type of vapor barrier (plastic) installed between the T&G boards and the insulation.
The gaps are not extensive, probably not exceeding 1/8" but I am concerned about the loss of conditioned air through the gaps.
The kraft paper on the insulation most likely includes a vapor retarder...it probably had a layer of black stuff between two kraft paper layers for that purpose.
The trick in sealing the gaps is not making them unsightly. Is good old "Plastic Wood" still on the market? I haven't seen it in decades, but then, I haven't looked for it either.
Architect (NY) and Home Designer (PA)
Posts: 2487 | Location: Tobyhanna, PA | Registered: 24 October 2005
I have read a few post here about wood stains developing when dry heated air mixes with cold attic air causing condensation to form on the wood. Is the kraft paper supposed to prevent this?
I do have some access in the attic. - What about applying 100% silicone to the gaps from the attic side? - Or could I remove the fiberglass installation, install sytrofoam insulation board between the rafters, then re-install the fiberglass insulation?
Either the T&G boards were not kiln dried throughly causing the wood to shrink or they were not nailed together properly. I'm just searching for different ways to correct this. Worst case would be removing and re-installing the whole ceiling.
