Hello! Need some help deciding on insulation for my new baby....
I had someone local use native cedar/juniper boards-siding build me a shed that I am converting to an office/work building.
He put up a tyvek barrier, at first we weren't doing this, then somewhere it got added in. Now I think I should remove it before I do the interior walls.
Any thoughts, will it trap moisture behind it on the 2x4 pine joists? I live in Austin, and mold is a thing.*
Now, I'm considering insulation/interior walls...considering mold/cost/natural non-toxic materials.
I'm looking at rockwool--but to get it without the brown paper--means I'm buying it at r-30 for attics. I'm still shopping around, but it seems harder to find (not in bulk).
I can source a local lime plaster for flooring, would this work for walls as well? I don't want drywall as it molds. Checking into forever board--mag oxide--but have read mixed reviews here and am guessing it's expensive.
Also considering something like straw covered with something natural--but then fire hazards right? What if I soaked the straw with borax? Then used a wall covering like burlap, wood siding, or just cloth...how to make it less of a fire hazard....
The other consideration are rats--ugh--I need to seal up all cracks due to the tree rats, but will this mess with ventilation in the roof? I see the buildings he usually builds are built to breathe with large openings, and I'm wondering if I seal it up, it will trap moisture and cause problems....
Thinking I need to seal up and then insulate the metal roof for warmth in the winter time....in summer also...although I did have him install ventilation windows that can open to release the heat...it's super hot in there right now.
As far as climate control--I may do a box a/c or just a fan; winter could install a rocket stove when I figure out how to build one...lol...until then, hoping to get some insulation that is efficient, cost effective, and non toxic/doesn't mold.
Any thoughts/help appreciated. Thanks!
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