I looked at a home recently (Michigan) where the contractor installed Thermax foam insulation in the crawlspace. It was not covered with any type of material. According to our building code, this type of product cannot be left exposed in either a crawlspace or attic where there are utilities.
What are your techniques for insulating a crawlspace?
thanks,
sam
Replies
Dow says that it is approved.
"# Uses: New frame wall construction behind siding or other compatible finishes, interior basement applications, exposed installation in attics and the interior side of basement walls and crawl space walls without a thermal barrier.
# Building requirements: THERMAX Sheathing complies with property requirements ASTM C 1289, Type 1, Class 2 and meets IBC/IRC requirements for foam plastic insulations."
http://www.dow.com/styrofoam/media/news/backgrounders/bncfacts.htm
And the IRC 2000 says that foam insulation that is not otherwised approved can be used based on tests and specific applications.
So I would see what the exact wording of the code is and then the tech sheets on Thermax to see exactly what their approvals are.
thanks bill,
thermax does meet the flame and smoke spread requirements however our building code requires that it be covered in an attic or crawlspace where there are utilities.
Requires it to be covered with fiber insulation, 1/4" wood, 3/8" particle board, 1/2" gypsum, or steel panel.......
are you allowed to insulate like this in your areas? do you have a different technique?
sam
I am not a pro. And my house was built in 79, but it has exposed foil surface Thermax showing in the attic.And just a cursory inspection by the FD.Don't know what they would do now days.