Where To Insulate / When To Use Vapor Barrier
Heat will always travel warmer to cooler areas until there is no longer a temperature difference. Insulation retains heat by resistance to flow. Tiny air particles trapped in the insulating material resist the movement of heat (and cold).
Basement insulation can be fiberglass below grade, mineral wool for ceiling of furnace room , cellulose above grade / interior walls and ceiling, closed cell spray foam for rim joist, and more. Basement insulation can be done with closed cell spray foam directly applied to foundation walls creating a moisture ( water), pressure ( air ), and thermal barrier for the walls and box sill.
Existing Drywall On Basement Walls Cellulose Dense Pack
Basement insulation ( below grade ) insulation is commonly done with fiberglass or cellulose if there is a vapor barrier installed before insulating. Important to consider water management around the property before finishing a basement to ensure basement waterproofing is satisfactory before closing off access. Don’t insulate a wet basement.
