There are a lot of wires and tubing between the joists and I'm not sure if I'm supposed to work the insulation around them or just lay the stuff over it. Seems like if there was a problem with the water or electricity, finding the wires and such would become a problem with them tucked under the insulation. Any help would be greatly appreciated.
i wouldnt insulate we have a finished basement and drop tile cealing and what ever the temp is up stairs thats what the basement will be (winter time). if you basement walls that are not inaulated thats what needs to get done.
most installations have the insulation on top of the items. But you don't say whether it is a suspended ceiling. If it is, definitely on top for ease of tracing but if it is a sheet rock ceiling you should go through and move what you can and then document the piping etc and lay it on top. Then you have a map of where the tubing goes. That's what I would do for my peace of mind.
one thing you didnt mention is why you want to insulate a basement ceiling. i can understand if its for sound abaitment but insulating a basement ceiling isnt really necessary (unless ofcourse its required by local code). in answer to your question, you tuck the insulation around wires and piple by pulling the insulation apart. compressing the insulation against wires and pipes compromises its effectiveness. heres what i would do. instead of fiber glass insulation use what is called sound board (it has thermal qualitys as well) and then sheet rock over that. sound board (it used to be call celetex back in the day) is available at home depot and most lumber yards.
