Steel studs / Basement Insulation

16945 Views 9 Replies 5 Participants Last post by ccarlisle, Jun 26, 2009

Chemist1961

Discussion Starter · Jun 11, 2009

I just bought enough NEW 3 5/8" steel studs and track for the entire basement at a steal form Habitat for Humanity.
I plan to frame and insulate the outer walls only, within 6 weeks to get an energy rebate.
Several questions,
When I space away from the wall, is there a way to use more than R 13.5 fibreglass insul in , not compressed of course?
Can I use R20 and let it hand out the back without collapsing, or is there a way to support it to keep from sagging or is spray foam or rigid in behind my only other option.
Second, if I spray foam, then obviously no air gap, but can I spray over a wall with a fine crack / leak which is caused by bad drainage outside... in a window well. The drainage is being improved as I plan to excavate the outer wall and clogged window well to seal at the same time.
Any other pointers for lapping corners , etc with steel studding would be appreciated.

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Chemist1961

Discussion Starter · #3 · Jun 11, 2009

Thanks Ron, actually meant how do I frame the tracks at ceiling and floor for inside and outside corners, just a butt joint or do I knotch and interlace them. I am debating fastening to the floor with drill and tapcons or a ramset hammer. Have both hammer drills and single fire Remington Ramset tool

I am also debating insullation materials, was just quoted $3.45 per squure foot for 4.5" foam at R24, including rim joist although I have resealed the rim joist and sole plates myself.
Any comments from anybody?

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Chemist1961

Discussion Starter · #6 · Jun 11, 2009

Has anyone got any feedback, good or bad on Icynene and its enviro freinldy claims. Arethere othere "non chemical" type foams ?

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Chemist1961

Discussion Starter · #9 · Jun 12, 2009

Thanks II W and CC and all. I live between Toronto and Detroit . Here's the thing, if I insulate to R23 I get a $2750 eco energy rebate, if I do only R13 I get $1350. So the 140 studs and 320 ' of track cost me $200 for a 1100 foot basement. Insullation will be the large material cost. I'll either use 2" rigid foam plus batt or spray foam. If I spray foam, i'll break even or close after additional 15% tax credit, If I do batts and foam board to R23, my drywall becomes free...
CC I appreciate your concern on the steel with moisture and rust. I see alot of steel in better quality homes in our area. I will be insulating below and behind and run a dehumidifier in the basement as well. Just not sure about Icynene. I amstill ab ibit aprehensive about flamables with toxic fumes in my basement. I think I will use Roxul batts for steel studs.

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