In areas with a colder climate, homes disperse an impressive amount of heat through the walls of the basement. An energy-efficient basement can lead to avoiding much of this dispersion. If you know how to insulate its walls, you can easily make this space energy efficient by keeping it warmer and drier than one without insulation.
Steps
Step 1. Apply a vapor barrier
Since the basement floors are humid, it is essential to prevent further moisture from entering the interior. In fact, this can cause mold to form, which often requires expensive interventions. To overcome this problem, you can install materials such as extruded polystyrene insulation between the masonry and the wooden frame that you will need to make to insulate the wall. You can use an all-purpose adhesive to glue the panels to the wall, then seal the joints with construction tape.
Step 2. Make a wooden frame for the walls
Consider using a composite wood base for exteriors in contact with the floor in order to have additional protection from moisture. Otherwise, use classic techniques to build the wall frames. Use a spirit level to align the frame so that it is exactly vertical.
Step 3. Fill the recesses with insulation
There are many types of insulation for underground walls. Among the most used we find: insulation in rigid panels (or in rollable mats), insulation in bulk filling materials and foam insulation.
- For rigid panel insulation or rollable mats, simply nail or staple the insulation inside the wooden frame. Those of the first type are generally available in panels of a size compatible with the frames.
- For bulk fill insulation, apply drywall over the battens before adding the material.
- Foam insulation is the most efficient option for basement floors. To apply cellulose foam, you may need specific equipment. This can be found in all major DIY stores. For this type of insulation, follow the instructions carefully.
Step 4. Cover the insulation with some type of masonry
Whatever type of insulation you have used, you must not leave it exposed to the air. For brickwork, you have many options available. Of course, you can use drywall to cover the insulation, but if you want an aesthetically better effect, you can also coat it with wood or any other surface you like.
Advice
- Consult your local regulations to determine if you are authorized to add fire protection to the insulation. While regulations do not prescribe it as mandatory, adding fire protection can provide more protection.
- The basement is connected to the rest of the house. For this reason, insulating the ceiling does not allow for the same improvements in terms of energy efficiency that can be obtained by insulating the walls. This last operation, in fact, protects the house from the outside temperature and humidity. Furthermore, insulating the walls is easier and requires less insulation.
- If you are building a new building, ask the construction company to use concrete blocks with insulation already included inside. These can be installed directly during construction and ensure further energy efficiency for your building.
