Basement Insulation Basics: A Comprehensive Guide to Selecting Wall Insulation

Basement insulation is a crucial step in making sure that your foundation and home remain structurally sound and healthy. It can not only prevent the formation of mold and mildew, but can also lower your energy bills and keep cold air from leaking in. With all the advantages of basement insulation, there are a multitude of different options to choose from that can fit everyone’s budget and insulation needs. Here are five of the most popular types of basement wall insulation:

1. Blanket Basement Insulation: Fibreglass or cotton sheets, this type of insulation is relatively inexpensive and easy to install on walls and ceilings. Blanket basement insulation provides a wide coverage, and low cost of energy, but it is a limited thermal transfer.

2. Loose-fill Insulation: Usually made of fibre glass, mineral wool and cellulose wool, this form of insulation can fill large gaps and voids which provides maximum insulation effectiveness.

3. Spray Foam Insulation: Expensive and time consuming, this type of insulation can be difficult to install. It involves spraying and foaming various liquid forms of polyurethane or polyisocyanurate compounds onto the walls of your basement.

4. Concrete Block Insulation: This type is made from polyurethane or polystyrene and is installed by a mason. The hollows (voids) of the concrete block are filled with foam or perlite pellets. While this type of insulation may not be as effective as other forms, it does require less work for installation.

5. Foam Board Insulation: Foam boards are extremely helpful in decreasing heat loss and can be fire-resistant as well. Their only disadvantage is that they must be installed with a fire barrier to avoid toxic gases in a fire emergencies.

All five of the above basement insulation options have their own benefits, each providing their own unique solutions to any insulation needs. From cost-effectiveness to water-proneness, there is a form of insulation that can suit anyone’s needs. So make sure to assess any nooks and crannies of your basement walls that need insulation and make the right choice.