I'm looking at purchasing a double A frame for a summer rental and eventual retirement home. The interior A frame walls are beams probably 4 feet apart with thin paneling between the beams. From what I can tell some areas have blue board behind the paneling and some areas do not. Insulation is non existent in this place. The house is located in Northern Michigan but will only be used about 4 months (summer) during the year.
I would like to take down the paneling and expose the boards that are behind the paneling and paint it. The two questions that I have right away is 1) should I be concerned with how hot the inside of the house will get with minimal to zero insulation. 2) If and when I ever decide to retire and live in it year round, what are my options for insulating the roof? I know I could add some insulation to the inside but I really like the exposed beams. Would it be a good idea to insulate from the outside on an A frame home? What's the best method to do this?
Any would be much appreciated.
Thanks!!!
You can insulate on the topside of the roof deck. It is often done when older summer cabins get turned into year round homes. Assuming the structure is solid and looks good you can strip the existing roof and install insulated panels or foam panels with (probably) an exterior sheathing for the new roof. The amount and type of insulation and how it will be attached should be determined locally.
Consider radiant barrier. If you're trying to keep heat out, it's a cheap and easy way, either rolled or OSB panel