Authored by Brandy Burgess in Home Improvement
Published on 10-10-2009
Insulating your basement is one of the easiest ways to save up to 35 percent of your energy costs. Refinishing your basement can also add extra space for storage and add value to your home. Use the following on how to insulate a basement to save you money and better your home.
How to Insulate a Basement: Do Your Research
Before you begin to insulate a basement on your own, you will need to do the proper research to be sure you have enough time and money to get the job accomplished. Measure your basement accordingly to determine how much you will need in materials and if there are any areas that will need unexpected work.
How to Insulate a Basement: Prep the Basement
It’s important to check the basement for mold, humidity or leaking pipes before you begin insulating. It’s important to tackle these problems first so they don’t interfere with your work. Clean the basement thoroughly and make sure it’s free of dirt and clutter.
How to Insulate a Basement: Purchase Materials
It’s much easier to accomplish a job when you have all of the necessary materials at your fingertips. For concrete basement floors, use a concrete sealer to fill in any gaps. Be sure to open windows and doors as this product has a strong smell that may be overwhelming to some.
For cinder block walls use a water proofer product called “DryLok”. Fill in any spaces or cracks that may be on your walls. Use insulating foam to fill in any small crevices that you can’t get otherwise. Use a water sealant to paint on your floor. It’s easiest just to apply the sealant using a paint roller. Also apply water sealant to your walls.
How to Insulate a Basement: Set Up Studs
Next you will need to create studs against your basement walls. The first stud should be attached directly to the basement floor. This can be done using a stud gun that you can find at most hardware stores, such as Home Depot. Create studs all along the walls about 16 inches apart.
How to Insulate a Basement: Fill in the Gaps
Between the studs, you are going to put blankets of fiberglass insulation. This will help to keep the warm air in during the winter and the hot air out during the summer. It’s important to wear gloves, goggles and a mask while working with insulation because inhaling or even touching it can be very bad for your health. Cut the insulation to snuggly fit the areas using a pair of kitchen scissors. Use a staple gun to secure the insulation to the studs. Use pieces of the insulation to wrap around pipes.
How to Insulate a Basement: Conclusion
Insulating your basement can save you tons on your energy bills and leaves your home the perfect temperature without much fuss. Not only can you save nearly 35% on energy bills, but the value of your home will also increase. If you are looking for a way to save your earnings and maybe refurnishing a basement to use for storage or even a living space, use this guide on how to insulate a basement for effective results.
