Insulating basement walls and cool basement remodel ideas
In This Article
The main enemy of the foundation of any home is the groundwater and this brings us to the need of insulating basement walls. Moisture destroys the concrete structure and may cost us a fortune if we do not take care of the problem soon enough.
An external or internal insulation is not some caprice, but a need that will ensure the safety of the entire structure.
Insulating basement walls – how to determine the problem?
When insulating basement walls there are several steps you need to follow to make sure you have done a good job. Of course, you can trust to professionals or do it by yourself.
Should you opt for the DIY option, the tips below would be a useful guidance for you. It all starts with locating and identifying the sources of moisture in the basement.
The most common cause of leaks is low quality insulation materials which wear out with time. Another reason is the direct contact of the building with the soil and groundwater.
What are the advantages of insulating basement walls?
Without any doubt there are many advantages for insulating basement walls. When you insulate the basement walls, you avoid the trouble of figuring out how to protect your basement from mold and mildew.
If you plan to transform your basement into a living area and use the available space in your basement, you would be concerned about the health and well being of your family members.
Having the basement wall securely insulated, you make sure that the heat will remain indoors. The easiest way to insulate a basement wall is by using foam insulation which is adhered or attached directly to the concrete.
Avoid materials like fiberglass, mineral wool, and cellulose because type of insulation should not be in contact with concrete. If not installed properly it will cause more damage as the moisture in the interior air will condense against the cold concrete surface, leading to mold and rot.