Jotun
New Member
I've been reading a lot of threads on basement insulation and would like some guidance/clarification. I'm getting a bit overwhelmed with information and different methods I've seen used.
I'm in the process of remodeling my basement (in Maryland), and none of the basement walls are insulated. In some areas the studs are a little over 1" away from the wall, and I think I can get 1" EPS foam behind them. But most of the studs in the basement are only about 1/2" from the concrete block. I'd really rather not remove all of the stud walls around the perimeter of the entire basement if possible...
About 3/4 of the house is below grade, with part of one wall exposed for a walk out exit.
My plan was to put 1" EPS behind the studs where I can, and cut and cobble 2" EPS in the wall cavity between the studs. Then using (closed cell) spray foam (like the “great stuff pro”) behind the studs and around the EPS.
1) Where I can't fit any rigid foam behind the studs, I thought about cut/cobble 2" EPS between the studs, with the 1" EPS over top the entire stud wall before drywall goes on. Is this a good idea, or would I bet better off just going thicker, like to 3" foam between the studs here (and not doing an inch of continuous over the studs)?
2) My understanding is that I don't want any kind of vapor barrier in the wall, to permit drying. Is it best to spray foam behind the studs (where there is currently a 1/2" gap)?
3) Do I need to put fiberglass batts in the wall cavities, or is the EPS a sufficient insulator depending on what amount I end up using?
4) Am I better off using a spray foam kit? It seems like it would be more expensive and a pain to do my entire basement over time, but if it's a better alternative I would consider it.
I'd like to order my foam soon but I have to have it shipped, so I'd like to make sure I've got everything I need before I order. Thanks everyone.
Edit: I called some basement insulation companies this morning to get some quotes and info, and one of them recommended R13 fiberglass batts and not doing EPS or spray foam. I have no idea what to think at this point!
I'm in the process of remodeling my basement (in Maryland), and none of the basement walls are insulated. In some areas the studs are a little over 1" away from the wall, and I think I can get 1" EPS foam behind them. But most of the studs in the basement are only about 1/2" from the concrete block. I'd really rather not remove all of the stud walls around the perimeter of the entire basement if possible...
About 3/4 of the house is below grade, with part of one wall exposed for a walk out exit.
My plan was to put 1" EPS behind the studs where I can, and cut and cobble 2" EPS in the wall cavity between the studs. Then using (closed cell) spray foam (like the “great stuff pro”) behind the studs and around the EPS.
1) Where I can't fit any rigid foam behind the studs, I thought about cut/cobble 2" EPS between the studs, with the 1" EPS over top the entire stud wall before drywall goes on. Is this a good idea, or would I bet better off just going thicker, like to 3" foam between the studs here (and not doing an inch of continuous over the studs)?
2) My understanding is that I don't want any kind of vapor barrier in the wall, to permit drying. Is it best to spray foam behind the studs (where there is currently a 1/2" gap)?
3) Do I need to put fiberglass batts in the wall cavities, or is the EPS a sufficient insulator depending on what amount I end up using?
4) Am I better off using a spray foam kit? It seems like it would be more expensive and a pain to do my entire basement over time, but if it's a better alternative I would consider it.
I'd like to order my foam soon but I have to have it shipped, so I'd like to make sure I've got everything I need before I order. Thanks everyone.
Edit: I called some basement insulation companies this morning to get some quotes and info, and one of them recommended R13 fiberglass batts and not doing EPS or spray foam. I have no idea what to think at this point!
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