Have an old house in the DC metro area that has Terra Cotta blocks as the foundation.
I’m starting to consider finishing the basement and want to determine the best way to insulate.
My current thinking is to use XPS foam panels and create a small air gap between the block and the panel with the “theory” that this would allow the block to “breath”. I would use something like an Azek to create the gap.
Don’t know if this is crazy, hence my research well before I do anything.
Thanks in advance.
JNF
Edited 3/10/2008 5:00 pm ET by jn_freedman
Replies
Here's a link to some frequently recommended info on basements http://www.buildingscience.com/documents/digests/bsd-103-understanding-basements/?topic=/designguidance/buildingscienceanddesign/below-gradeenclosure/main_topic
You might try searching the forum for "basement insulation".
But someone else will likely chime in shortly.
Just used the building science recommendation to convert basement to living space. This included glueing 3/4 extruded polystyrene to the walls and sealing the joints with foamboard adhesive. $12.50 a sheet 4x8 was not a bad price, now I can insulate with bats and not have to worry that the fiberglass will touch the concrete. The whole idea is that xps is slightly breathable but does not wick water. We will see what the city thinks at the end of this week. Remember no vapor barrier.
Potter
When I saw the title, I was going to reply with that link too. That site has GREAT information.