A: The main thing you need to address since you have an older home is to make sure you have sufficient air flow into the crawlspace, and you may also need to add a dehumidifier to cut down on moisture. In newer homes many builders install what's called a "conditioned" crawlspace to deal with moisture. If you're not sure about the proper way to vent or condition your crawlspace you should consult with a contractor.

As far as the insulation, usually it's the floor of the room above that gets insulated. Make sure the vapor barrier of the insulation goes up against the bottom of the floor, not in the crawlspace.

If you have any heating or cooling ducts, water lines, or forced hot water heating lines, they need to be insulated as well. Special insulating products are on the market for pipes and ducts.

Finally, if your crawlspace has an earth floor, a heavy-duty plastic sheet vapor barrier needs to be installed to stop moisture from coming up from the ground. Also, make sure you use all the recommended safety equipment to insulate your body from any harm!