Re: 3000 sq ft 1890's Victorian in Central NY

To whom it may concern,

Is this a "balloon" structure building? Walls built with studs that run through to the second story? Blowing cellulose into old wall cavities can be tricky. In the golden years of house construction, plastering the walls was par normal. Some plasterers were better than others. Some of the guys would shlep it on and on the other side of the lathe "interior" ridges of plaster would build up amounting to protuberances throughout the interior of the wall. When blowing insulation in these I have punched holes about three feet up on the wall and then another at the top of the cavity. Blowing the bottom hole full first, watching during the process to see if chunks of cellulose are coming out of the top hole. After the bottom hole is full, tap the wall . A couple of good thumps is sufficient then fill the top hole. A more unifrm fill will yield better insulating properties and no "cold spots".

A masonry heater may be an option for you guys if you are handy and can work it out w/ a local contractor for some kind of labor credit. Contrary to popular belief, masonry heaters, if built right are very efficient and if built to serve also act as a trombe wall. Examples can be seen at mha-net.org.

The gaps in the floor can be remedied from the underside with celotex installed between the floor joists. Celotex will refract the heat back into the living space while being covered by your wood floor. 

As far as the cisterns are concerned, they would be better utilized as a storage space. Too much humidity caused by evaporation in your basement is going to cause you trouble in the future.

Ensure you insulate the attic space as well as giving the attic the ability to breathe. Plenty of soffit, gable or roof vents. This is essential, your attic should mirror the same conditions as the great out of doors.

Good luck with the Vicky, I've done a couple myself and there is a reward to be reaped when you finish.