GOT BASEMENT BLUES? BEST Solution GO GREEN

Everyone who uses their basement wants it warm and dry.  To be comfortable you must keep the moisture out and the heat in.  There are three options, but no matter what product you choose, you want an R-value of at least 12.

SPRAY INSULATION – The BEST Solution for Basement Insulation

Closed cell spray foam is the ‘Spray Solution’ and the best choice for basement insulation.  The foam, when a minimum two-inch thickness is applied, acts as both a vapor and air barrier and supplies an R-value of 20.  It is sprayed directly onto the concrete walls and between joists and studs.  As spray foam expands it fills every nook and cranny keeping cold and moisture out.

NOT ALL INSULATION IS CREATED EQUAL – BATT & RIGID FOAM BOARD

Open cell foam insulation is not recommended for basement applications.  While it is less expensive than closed-cell, it has a lower density, can absorb water and has a lower R-value.

BATT INSULATION

Many homes use fibreglass or mineral wool batt insulation paired with a polyethylene moisture barrier fixed with a continuous bead of an acoustical sealant. Batt insulation, however, cannot reach all the areas that spray foam can, and should moisture seep in, the R-value will be severely impacted.

 

 

 

RIGID FOAM BOARD

Rigid foam board insulation works by curbing air movement.  A specially formulated adhesive fixes the overlapping panels to the basement wall, and all the seams along the paneling are sealed off with sheath tape to form a thermal break.