Hello Everyone,

I was wondering if anyone had any advice as far as proper usage of insulation.  I am pulling down the old insulation in my basement, and want to put up some new energy efficient stuff with a higher R rating.  Here is my problem.  I have two different recommendations as far as how deep into the space between the joists the insulation should go.  Meaning, I have 2×10 joists which are 14 inches apart, so should I buy insulation that goes up 8 inches into the space, or the full 10 inches and leave no room between the top of the insulation and the floor boards?  I was told that there should be a few inches left in there to allow for air to flow and it helps with the heat convection, or should there be no space in there and have it fill the entire gap between the joists all the way up to the floor boards.

I know this may not be a great explanation, but I can answer any questions that might clarify the situation.

Thanks,

John