Almost everyone knows one best way to heat a basement is to insulate their concrete basement walls? But do they really need insulation? If so, why bother?
Throughout this article, we’ll go over the benefits and types of insulation for concrete basement walls.
Do Concrete Basement Walls Need Insulation?
Do concrete basement walls need insulation? In a nutshell, concrete basement walls definitely need insulation. That’s the short answer. Basement walls are made of concrete, which is porous. Moisture from the air can soak into it, causing mold and mildew to grow. Plus, concrete conducts heat well, so it cools down in the winter and heats up in the summer. By insulating your basement walls, you’ll be able to regulate the temperature and keep your home more comfortable. You’ll also save money on energy by keeping heat in during the winter and cool air in during the summer. In other words, if you want to save money and make your house more comfortable, insulation is for you.
Why Should I Insulate My Concrete Basement Walls?
Why should I insulate my concrete basement walls? Well, there are a few good reasons. The first thing insulation does is keep your basement warm in the winter and cool in the summer. It’ll save you money on heating and cooling. As an added bonus, insulation reduces noise pollution. This can be a godsend for people who live in big cities. Last but not least, insulation keeps moisture and mold out. A basement is a moist environment, so this is essential. That’s why you should insulate your concrete basement walls.
What Type of Insulation Does My Basement Walls Need?
The best way to keep your basement cool in the summer and warm in the winter is to insulate the walls. Choosing the right insulation for your home can be difficult with so many options available. Check out these popular types of insulation to make the best choice:
Fiberglass: Fiberglass insulation is made from glass fibers that are spun into a mat. It is then usually covered with a paper or foil backing. Fiberglass insulation is easy to install and provides good protection against heat transfer. However, it does not always provide good soundproofing and can be irritable to the skin.
Rock wool: Rock wool insulation is made from melted rocks that are spun into fibers. It is more fire resistant than fiberglass and provides good soundproofing. However, it can be more difficult to install and may not provide as much protection against heat transfer.
Cellulose: Cellulose insulation is made from recycled paper products that are treated with fire retardants. It is environmentally friendly and easy to install, but it does not provide as much protection against heat transfer as some other types of insulation.
Polyurethane foam: Polyurethane foam insulation is sprayed onto walls and ceilings in liquid form, where it expands to create a dense barrier. It provides excellent protection against heat transfer and can also help to reduce noise levels. However, it can be expensive and may require professional installation.
When choosing an insulation for your basement walls, there are several factors to consider, including cost, R-value (the measure of an insulation’s ability to resist heat transfer), ease of installation, and fire resistance. By taking all of these factors into account, you can choose the type of insulation that’s right for your home.
