Always follow these rules when working with vapor retarder-faced insulation:

• Many facings are flammable. Because of this, when vapor retarders face building spaces intended for human use, they must be covered. These spaces include garages, storage rooms, utility rooms and laundries. NAIMA recommends that this statement be printed on all combustible facings:

"This vapor retarder is flammable and should not be left exposed. Special care should be taken when working close to the facing with an open flame."

(For exposed applications, insulations with special, strong, rein- forced flame resistant facings are available.)

• Batt and blanket insulations may be installed one on top of the other in ceilings where there is adequate space. Only the bottom layer should have a vapor retarder, which should face down toward the space that is warm-in-winter. Additional layers should be unfaced. If unfaced insulation is not available, use the faced type but remove the facing completely before installation.
• Repair damaged vapor retarders. Rips or tears in the vapor retarder facing may be repaired by covering the damaged area with scrap vapor retarder material and taping it in place or, in the case of small rips, by using duct tape or polyvinyl tape. Gaps around windows, doors and other openings should be covered with vapor retarder facing or taped.
• Avoid electrical wiring when stapling vapor retarders or facings. Care should be taken not to staple into electrical wiring when installing faced batts and blankets or separate vapor retarders.