Recommended Insulation For Basement Walls
Step by step basement insulation installation.
Recommended insulation for basement walls. Adhere and apply the remaining panels. I ve written several articles on insulating basement walls and evolved some of my methods over time. Basement wall insulation also provides greater efficiency than insulating basement ceilings. Properly installed wall insulation conditions the basement from the colder underground and makes the space more comfortable even if the basement is left unheated.
The best insulation to use is rigid foam which is largely unaffected by moisture. Energy savings are about the same whether you insulate on the interior or exterior. If the material isn t installed properly air leakage is still possible which will lead to comfort issues in the future. Any foam insulation works well in basements but don t do batt and studs.
Best methods for insulating basement walls. Basements are a challenge because of high moisture levels and cooler temperatures. Basements provide for a very challenging insulation problem. Basement spray foam insulation cons.
Warm basement walls and energy savings go hand in hand. R value is a measure of insulation s ability to resist heat traveling through it. Insulation seals air leaks and provides consistent thermal resistance from cold walls. Except for the deep south.
Insulation level are specified by r value. Make sure your adhesive is free of solvents which can eat away at the foam insulation. Choosing the best insulation for basement walls and ceiling. Achieving greater r values in attics the higher the r value the better the thermal performance of the insulation.
After the cement is set apply a foam board adhesive to the rear of a polystyrene insulation panel then press the panel to the wall. Plain and simple if you plan to use your basement for added living space and you want it to be comfortable healthy and energy efficient you definitely want to insulate the walls with foam. When you are insulating two by four 2x4 and two by six 2x6 framed exterior walls and want to use fiberglass insulation what thickness is best the question becomes all more critical because of the permanent nature of wall assemblies and wall insulation. Find your zone on the map and then use the chart to determine the level of insulation you need to properly insulate your attic walls floors and crawlspaces.
When insulating concrete basement walls a good idea because concrete basement walls are often cold use rigid foam board insulation if the insulation will come into direct contact with the. Spray foam insulation is a more expensive option when insulating the basement. Basement wall insulation is recommended in most of the u s. There are some small theoretical advantages to insulating on the exterior having to do with.