How Do You Install Fiberglass Insulation On A Concrete Wall?
How Do You Install Fiberglass Insulation On A Concrete Wall?
Concrete is a magnificent material that is used to construct homes all around the world. It’s tough, long-lasting, weather-resistant, and quite adaptable. However, it has essentially no natural insulating value.
A solid concrete wall 12 inches thick has an R-value of around 2. Compare that to one inch of stiff foam with an R-value ranging from 3 to 6. That’s more than 20 times the amount of concrete.
Insulating your concrete walls may enhance your home’s energy efficiency, save money on energy bills, and make a living more comfortable by managing temperatures.
The location of your concrete walls will determine the technique and kind of insulation you should employ. Most homes have concrete walls in the basement. Because basement walls are typically nearly below grade, this presents some distinct issues.
However, some homes, particularly modern ones, have concrete walls throughout. This design has its own set of requirements and problems.
Before installing fiberglass insulation, you’ll need to make a few preparations. First, you’ll need to seal all the cracks and holes in the concrete wall with a sealant. This will help prevent moisture and air from entering the wall and causing damage.
Next, you’ll need to install the insulation. First, put the fiberglass insulation in the cavity tightly. Trim the excess. Topcoat with plastic. Secure it with staples.
Finally, you’ll need to weatherproof the wall. This will help protect the insulation from the elements and make it last longer.
To do this, apply a coat of sealant to the wall and then apply a layer of plastic. Finally, install the gutters and downspouts in the appropriate places.
How Do You Insulate A Concrete Wall With A Rigid Foam?
Rigid foam boards are the next best technique to insulate a concrete wall. This is the most common approach because of its ease of use and low cost.
Rigid foam is an excellent insulator, ranging from R-2 to R-6 per inch on average, and is water resistant. Once the boards are mounted, it is recommended you tape and caulk all the seams. It is safe to lay them flush against the concrete with no gaps.
The key to utilizing a foam board is selecting the appropriate thickness for the R-value required and carefully sealing it to make an effective vapour barrier. I propose using silicone and Tyvek (or equivalent) house wrap tape.
Use “Great Stuff” spray foam in a can to seal around any wire, pipe, and duct penetrations, as well as along the bottom of the foam board.
