cellulose insulation issues

[jimbob]

I am in the process of having cellulose insulation blown into empty wall cavities. The contractor is almost finished and is supposed to complete the job Monday.

In looking over the work done so far, I have some concerns. the insulation is being blown in from the outside. Holes are being drilled in 2 points in each cavity which from what I know is the correct way. One hole is about 1 foot from the bottom of the wall and the other is about threee feet from the top. It seems that this wouldn't completely fill the wall with holes drilled so low. Just to be sure I checked 1 cavity and found about a 5" gap with no insulation at the top of the cavity.

There are also spots which have not been drilled and filled above windows in parts of the house that are considered complete.

Is it reasonable to expect wall cavities to be completely filled or am I nitpicking? I am thinking I should address this with the contractor, before I pay for the job.

Any thoughts. Thanks.

[jim]

jimbob,

As I am in the process of remodeling my second room from total teardown and well on my way to journeyman carpenter in the process.. LOL The header over the windows and doors that distributes the load of the wall is a fairly solid piece of wood blocking that is the thickness of the wall and is 8-10 inches tall minimum, but can be the total height of the difference to the top of the wall depending on local codes, union trade practices, and even if there is a second floor or not . so its usually not possible to insulate it at all.

Hope this helps, Jimbo

[Bob F]

On the two houses I've seen this done to, one hole was drilled near the top for each cavity.

Bob

[jimbob]

I called the contractor today and explained things. He said there were likely headers above the windows as jim said. I do believe this explanation. They are 4 foot thermalpane windows.

I asked his if he would drill another row of holes closer to the top of cavities to make sure they were topped up. He said he would and this would be fine with me. I was polite but firm. Hopefully it will work out alright.

Thanks for your replies.