[Lisa66]

Hi all,

Am looking for suggestions on how to insulate a cement basement properly. The house is post war 1950s, 700 sq feet. Its very cold in the winter, so am replacing the windows next month. What are your thoughts on using Rigid Foam board directly on the cement walls and even floors?
Thanks
Lisa

 

[Mark Russell]

Basements are complex due to the potential risk from damp.

It may require tanking first.

A good option is the insulated plaster board products which are available as these would help with the walls and also consider fitting a floating insulated floor.

 

[Lisa66]

Insulation in CANADA!

Thank you Mark, I appreciate your reply!

 

[Gary in WA]

Welcome to the forum! I hope you don't mind, I moved you to "Insulation" for better/faster responses.....

Foam board on concrete walls is good; http://www.buildingscience.com/documents/information-sheets/5-thermal-control/basement-insulation

The value of foam below grade; http://www.quadlock.com/technical_library/bulletins/R-ETRO_Value_of_Basement_Insulation.pdf

You would also air seal the drywall, pressure treated bottom plate (if used), no air space between different insulation, sill sealer under plate for thermal/capillary break, foam board and canned foam the rims, etc. Check with your local B.D. for approval; http://www.nrc-cnrc.gc.ca/eng/ibp/irc/rr/rr199/part2.html

And; http://www.nrc-cnrc.gc.ca/eng/ibp/irc/rr/rr199/part3.html


Be careful with fiberglass; http://www.diychatroom.com/f98/biggest-loser-fiberglass-insulation-90438/


Read up and we can then help with any questions…….

Gary