When the basement is insulated new areas are created for spending time. The bonus of acquiring lowered energy costs makes the work worthwhile. If the space is left un-insulated the above ground level warm air that mixes with the below ground level cool air causes a collection of moisture in the wood frames. The negative result is spore growth causing rot. The air too will be unhealthy to breathe. The homeowner today has several basement insulation methods to choose from and learning to choose which is the best for them will bring in dividends later on.
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.
The three kinds of basement insulation are rigid foam, blanket and polyurethane spray. These have been designed for different cellar conditions so the homeowner must make a needs assessment to decide on the best system. Once a needs assessment is completed a decision is made whether to do it yourself or have a contractor do the renovation.
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.
The highest RSI value per millimeter is the rigid foam system. It also requires little space so straight walls are perfect for foam panels. The exterior walls should have two inches of stiff foam attached to them and one inch should be placed on the floor. The pieces fit tightly together while a special glue adheres them onto the wall and floor surfaces. After taping the seams are spray foamed. Nailing strips may also be used. Studs are fastened to them and on top of the studs a moisture resistant wall of drywall is attached.
There are two ways to build the new wall. It can be built flush using 2x4 inch lumber or it can be extended from the original wall by two inches. This creates an additional ventilation space that reduces moisture.
If the walls are uneven or if they have moisture problems the spray foam is the best basement insulation. This product must be installed by a certified installer. The foam is evenly distributed and covered by a fire-resistant layer of material. This requires special training, equipment and clothing and an experienced eye. Spray foam tends to expand so it is important not to spray too much.
Windows will have to be treated with foam around the frame to keep out air. Insulating material also must be applied around water pipes. The pipes must be moved away from the wall. Insulating Basement methods can be applied to the windows too. Since a lot of air comes in and goes out via the windows, homeowners should change them for insulated ones. This will help save in energy costs.
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.
The three kinds of basement insulation are rigid foam, blanket and polyurethane spray. These have been designed for different cellar conditions so the homeowner must make a needs assessment to decide on the best system. Once a needs assessment is completed a decision is made whether to do it yourself or have a contractor do the renovation.
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.
The highest RSI value per millimeter is the rigid foam system. It also requires little space so straight walls are perfect for foam panels. The exterior walls should have two inches of stiff foam attached to them and one inch should be placed on the floor. The pieces fit tightly together while a special glue adheres them onto the wall and floor surfaces. After taping the seams are spray foamed. Nailing strips may also be used. Studs are fastened to them and on top of the studs a moisture resistant wall of drywall is attached.
There are two ways to build the new wall. It can be built flush using 2x4 inch lumber or it can be extended from the original wall by two inches. This creates an additional ventilation space that reduces moisture.
If the walls are uneven or if they have moisture problems the spray foam is the best basement insulation. This product must be installed by a certified installer. The foam is evenly distributed and covered by a fire-resistant layer of material. This requires special training, equipment and clothing and an experienced eye. Spray foam tends to expand so it is important not to spray too much.
Windows will have to be treated with foam around the frame to keep out air. Insulating material also must be applied around water pipes. The pipes must be moved away from the wall. Insulating Basement methods can be applied to the windows too. Since a lot of air comes in and goes out via the windows, homeowners should change them for insulated ones. This will help save in energy costs.
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