It is a good idea to insulate one’s cellar to bring the energy costs down and to create an extra living space. Un-insulated, the warm air located above soil level mingles with the cooler air below ground level and causes moisture to collect in the wood framing and insulation. The result is a growth of spores which causes rot as well as unhealthy air. There are several basement insulation methods available and the home owner should learn what the best option is for their home.
Some basements are not very appealing to visit. Patience is needed to go downstairs and note the pluses and minuses of the situation.Choosing to go down when the climate outdoors is comfortable will make the lower level more inviting to explore.
There are three types of basement insulation. Rigid foam, polyurethane spray and blanket are the main choices. Not every cellar is suitable for all these insulating walls so one must first make an assessment of their cellar to decide which system is best. Once the homework is done the home owner can decide if they want to do the project themselves or contract it out.
Experience has shown that when a basement is insulated it does not take very long to recuperate the investment. The energy savings are significant throughout the house.
If the walls are straight then the best system is the rigid foam with the highest RSI value. It also requires the least amount of space. The exterior walls will have two inches of foam attached to them and the floor will only require one inch. Each piece fits together closely and a special adhesive glue is used to attach the panels onto the surfaces. The seams between the panels must be taped and sprayed with foam. Nailing strips provide an alternative solution to the gluing system. Studs are attached to the foam and a moisture resistant 12.7 millimeters of drywall is added to the studs.
There are two ways to build the new wall. It can be built flush using 2×4 inch lumber or it can be extended from the original wall by two inches. This creates an additional ventilation space that reduces moisture.
Spray foam is the best solution for irregular walls. It is also recommended for walls with moisture issues. The product must be applied by a certified specialist. The foam must be distributed evenly and covered by a layer of fire-resistant material. The foam tends to expand so it must be sprayed in moderation.
Any windows in the walls need to be insulated with spray polyurethane foam around the frames. Water pipes should be wrapped in their own insulating material and moved away from the wall insulation. Insulating Basement methods apply to windows also. Most of the outdoor heat and cool air comes in through the windows. The windows should be replaced with insulated windows that will greatly cut down on energy costs. The leader in green Basement Insulation Methods, gives you a energy-efficient way to finish and insulate basements.
