Innovative Basement Insulation Methods Can Save Families on Their Energy Bill
It does not matter if you are downstairs basement is finished or not finished. It needs to be insulated for a variety of reasons. In addition to costing less on utility bills, insulation can also prevent mold and condensation from attacking the walls. This helps the foundation last longer and makes the home more healthy. There is a variety of basement insulation methods.
The first and most popular way is to use fiberglass insulation. This is the most economical way to get a high resistance. The resistance is what prevents the outside temperature from entering the living space. On the other hand, it also prevents the interior temperature from escaping outside. Many people choose fiberglass rolls because they are treated with a fire resistant coating. Depending on how thick the installation is will determine the R-value
Another great way for insulating basement walls is to use insulated concrete blocks. These special blocks are filled with a material that has the ability to create resistance. Like the fiberglass insulation above, it prevents the warm air inside from escaping. Likewise it will stop the outside air from entering.
Since the warm air and cooler air are not making contact, there is no condensation. Therefore, will walls remain dry and mold free. This added benefit extends the life of the home\’s foundation. Various types of materials are used to fill the blocks. Among them are vermiculite, and foam.
Rigid foam boards are quickly becoming popular for basement insulation too. This is because they are affordable and do a good job. Homeowners can typically install this product without a lot of hassle. The best way to do this is to attach furring strips to the concrete wall and then attach the foam board to the strips. Once the project is complete, the boards improve the walls resistance, which saves energy and reduces moisture. Various board densities determine the R-value. The only substance that outperforms the foam board is the fiberglass rolls in the same category.
An additional technique that is effective for insulating basement walls is spray-on foam. The material is sprayed onto the walls and subsequently it fills in all of the seams and cracks. A basement that has a lot of pipes and duct work finds this method to be very useful. As a side benefit, it keeps roaches and other varmints from entering the home through cracks.
This method is the most costly. However, it is the most effective. Many people report an instant savings on their utility bills. It can provide a moisture barrier while at the same time doubling the installation value of regular fiberglass insulation. A crew mixes the material on the job and uses a special machine to coat walls.
In just moments, the basement wall insulation is complete. Families that own older homes say their floors become sturdier and more comfortable to walk on in the winter. The spray foam strengthens the floor joist and the sub flooring as it insulates. Check out the various basement insulation methods today and start saving money on energy bills.
Author Bio: Easy to install, energy-efficient Insulating Basement, that help you lower your heating and cooling costs.
Category: Home Management
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