My basement has R-11 Kraft-faced installation already installed in the ceiling joists, stapled to the inside edge. I'm planning to install a 6 of 5" or 6" recessed lights.
What would be the best way to cut out the insulation in order to make room for the can/housing? The insulation is not as thick as the space is deep, so too much pressure will likely tear the paper or rip it out of the staples.
My top two thoughts are to try and carve out a circle with a standard knife and slide the can in with the brackets on the outside of the paper (would probably need to pre-wire before installing), or just try to cut out a section and then back-fill insulation after the lights are installed. Not sure if there's an easier trick that I'm not thinking of.
Best Answer
If the basement is conditioned space, and what's above is conditioned space, the insulation is not doing much other than some possible sound reduction. (though if you don't cover it with drywall the paper may well play the role of fire hazard...)
If the fixtures ARE IC (insulation contact) rated, you can cut a hole that just fits. If they are NOT IC rated,you need to cut considerably larger hole in the insulation and remove it, not "backfill" it. You can also do that just to simplify your life if there's no significant temperature difference between the basement and the space above it.