What can fiberglass insulation NOT touch

building-regulationsinsulationsound-proofing

I have some rolls of 15" R-13 insulation that I am planning on installing in my floor joists to help sound proof my basement ceiling. Is there anything that the insulation can't touch? I know that the lighting has to be rated to touch the insulation but what about pipes/wiring?

Best Answer

It doesn't matter to piping. As a rule, piping likes insulation. Although for cold piping, condensation may be an issue; insulation can hold that water and cause mold and mildew.

It's an issue with electrical, because some types of wire need to be able to cool, and they can't do that covered in insulation, and this has caused house fires.

I am hoping some of the electrical-code experts who know more about this area of practice will chime in.