Proper Insulation For Basement Ceiling

Insulation level are specified by r value.

Proper insulation for basement ceiling.

If it is an unfinished basement in north america that you wish to insulate then an r value of 12 or higher is recommended. But its open cell structure still allows moisture to escape. The higher the r value the better the thermal performance of the insulation. The type of insulation you should use depends on the purpose of the space being insulated.

Prior to insulating the basement ceiling warmth is radiating from the heated first floor into the cooler basement space. Interior insulation reduces usable interior space by a few inches. Top 9 energy suckers. It doesn t protect the damp proof coating like exterior insulation does.

Many insulation types require a fire rated covering because they release toxic gases when ignited. As for material faced formaldehyde free fiberglass insulation is the safest for your home health and the environment. Let s take a closer look at insulating a finished basement ceiling for both temperature and noise protection. Start by gluing 3 4 inch extruded polystyrene foam insulation to fit against the rim joists and foundation walls.

Avoid expanded foam insulation the type that has little white beads pressed together when insulating basement walls because it isn t as durable and has a lower r value. The table below shows what levels of insulation are cost effective for different climates and locations in the home. Start with getting any moisture issues under control then use water resistant insulation like closed cell spray foam or xps foam board. Sprayed against the underside of the roof deck it seals against air movement eliminating the need for a vapor barrier or ventilation.

Your best option is insulating your exposed foundation walls. How to insulate a basement ceiling and should i insulate the walls. Extruded polystyrene foam can be yellow pink or blue depending on the manufacturer for insulating basement walls. Illustration by ian worpole.

With the right insulation ceiling tiles or sheetrock adding to the basement ceiling will help keep noise from transferring between levels. Compounding that is the sealed combustion installation. R value is the insulation s ability to resist heat flow. First you ll have to maneuver batts of insulation around the clutter of wires pipes and cross bracing in a typical basement ceiling.

But unlike insulation in walls a basement ceiling is often lined with pipes wires and interconnected beams that will make insulating a ceiling a bit trickier. Hold the batts in place by stapling their paper faced vapor retarders to the lower edges of the joists. For basement ceilings batt or blanket insulation is the insulation of choice. Energy efficiency isn t a common reason to insulate your basement but sound proofing is.

R value is a measure of insulation s ability to resist heat traveling through it. Adding insulation cuts off this heat transfer. Here are a few things to consider when installing interior basement wall insulation.