Chủ Nhật, 21 tháng 8, 2011

New Basement Insulation Methods Provide Many Positive Results

By Adriana Noton


New living spaces are created when homeowners insulate their cellars. An added advantage is the ability to bring down the price of energy consumption. If improvements are not made the cold air below the ground level and the warm air above mingle and result in condensation. Spore growth will ensue causing rotting of the wooden frames. This contaminated air will also eventually cause health problems. Homeowners can choose from a wide selection of basement insulation methods. Learning the best alternatives will provide dividends in the end.

It requires patience to visit the basement repeatedly and discover what the pros and cons are. Taking time to investigate the below ground situation will bring in dividends that will prove to be advantageous in the future. Older basements may not be very appealing to evaluate but if one chooses to do this when the weather is not too hot or cold, the process will be less uncomfortable.

Three types of basement insulation are on the market to choose from. The blanket type, the polyurethane spray type and the rigid foam type. Each one these is suitable for a specific kind of cellar. The homeowner needs to assess which one works best for their basement. Once that has been ascertained they then must decide of they want to contract out the work or do it themselves.

Many homeowners have discovered that when they prioritize their list of home improvements by placing the basement first the investment will not take long to recoup. The whole structure benefits from the savings in energy costs.

The highest RSI value per millimeter is the rigid foam system. It also requires little space so straight walls are perfect for foam panels. The exterior walls should have two inches of stiff foam attached to them and one inch should be placed on the floor. The pieces fit tightly together while a special glue adheres them onto the wall and floor surfaces. After taping the seams are spray foamed. Nailing strips may also be used. Studs are fastened to them and on top of the studs a moisture resistant wall of drywall is attached.

There are two ways to build the new wall. It can be built flush using 2x4 inch lumber or it can be extended from the original wall by two inches. This creates an additional ventilation space that reduces moisture.

Spray foam is best for uneven walls. If they also have problems with moisture, the spray foam can still be used but it must be applied by an installer who is certified. The even distribution of the foam is followed by a layer of fire-resistant material. The specialist must wear the correct protective clothing and use the best equipment to ensure the required results. The installer will also understand not to over spray since foam will expand.

If there are windows then the area around them must be sprayed with polyurethane foam. Insulating material must be wrapped around water pipes and not allowed to be touching the wall insulation. Insulating Basement practices are also used when choosing new windows. Most of the heat and cold enters and leaves from the windows. Insulated windows will also provide great energy savings.




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