Basement insulation – protection below, keeps bills low
Basement insulation keeps the floor warmer as insulation slows heat transfer but it would not be efficient to insulate the basement ceiling. The transfer of heat is a non-linear function. This implies that heat loss is great when the differences between the two temperatures are significant. If the temperature of two objects is quite close the warmer object slowly cools to the lower temperature.
Significance of basement insulation
In order to make the basement more comfortable and a bit warmer so that whatever work is done, one may find him adding heat so one can work in relative comfort. As the basement walls are conducting cold into the basement insulation by the cold from outside, it might be worth to add basement insulation over the exposed masonry foundation. One can easily choose to use closed-cell foam or fiberglass. But one should be sure to check with the local building department as some insulation that are flammable – such as closed cell foam – that must be covered with drywall or other material to prevent rapid fire spread. One should also inspect the juncture between the wood framing and the top of the concrete foundation.
What should one do to insulate his years old home? Because older homes in summer get enough condensation forms from the inside of the vapor barrier to thoroughly soak the fiberglass. If one removes all the basement insulation and leaves the walls bare for a year no moisture gets visible anywhere.
Methods of treatment for Basement Insulation
The first place to start is with moisture control. Dry basements can let in significant amounts of moisture vapor through masonry walls, not to mention the ever-present danger of a flood. One should always use fiberglass insulation in basements whenever possible. Small amount of moisture leads to mould and reduce thermal performance. If the basement has absolutely no water leaks, and appears dry year-round, then finishing is an option. To begin with a coat of waterproof paint on the inside of masonry walls is always a best option. One will get excellent performance by using extruded polystyrene foam. This is a closed cell, rigid foam that not only tolerates some moisture, but also acts as its own vapor barrier. One should apply beads of expanding polyurethane foam to the joints, to seal them and prevent warm, moist indoor air from causing condensation behind the rigid foam during winter.