Top Suggestions for Crawl Space Insulation

In the past days, the common practice of insulating a building was simply to insulate the floor above the crawl space while leaving the crawl space's wall vents open. As a result, instead of ejecting the moisture build-up, the open vents let them in and it especially occurs during the hot days. The air passing over the crawl space's cool surfaces restrict the cold air from reaching the floor present above. But, gone are those days, as today's energy experts suggesting a different approach for the crawl spaces. It should be a part of your home’s heated and cooled areas. It eliminates the condensation, that reduces the happening of mould and mites. It also minimizes the energy loss from the air ducts, and drafts as well.

Listed below is a list of the top suggestions for crawl space insulation:

• Eliminate the sources of water: Before using any home insulation materials eliminate the sources of water from the crawl space. Try to extend the downspouts, re-build the sidewalks, patios, and clean the gutters, so that the water could flow away from your home easily. Install a waterproofing system in the basement, if required.

• Insulate the walls, instead of the ceiling: You could install rigid boards using adhesive or mechanical fasteners. Another thing you could do to the crawl space floor is just putting an insulating mat over it.

• Use water-resistant insulation material: Any rigid board insulations will fit and perform well but choose the one that has the best R-value.

• Properly seal the vent openings: Vent covers are available in standard sizes or you could also make your own using plywood and place them.

• Make sure that hatchways to the exterior are sealed: Apply heavy-duty weather stripping to make sure that it's tight. You could also go for a pre-manufactured hatchway for crawl space.

• Seal rim joists and sills: Cut the rigid board insulation in rectangle shapes and fill the ends of joist bays with them. Use the foam sealant to properly seal the joints and the sill.

• Install an air and vapour barrier: Plastic vapour barriers of various thicknesses are available. If you are planning to make use of the space for storing purpose, then placing a barrier that could stand up to the foot traffic is good.

 Many insulation options are there in the market for your needs, each of them has its own set of attributes and applications. But, do make sure that you educate yourself well on proper installation methods and take safety measures before diving in.