Replies

1. 
   John_Lazaro | Oct 11, 2001 02:56pm | #1

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   My theory.....
   If there is dirt on the block walls, the block should be grouted for extra strength with concrete (ie. fill the cores). I believe that the only way you'll get warmth is to insulate from the inside ...or even the outside. The problem with block is that it has no thermal break. The cold on the outside gets transfered to the inside. You do have the advantage of thermal mass. If you can heat the whole thing up, it should radiate that heat. But without insulation on the exterior, you radiate it out also and you're fighting the cold. The best in my opinion would be to insulate inside & out and you'd effectively have the equivalent of an ICF (insulated concrete form).
   Good luck,
   John

2. 
   Andrew_West | Oct 11, 2001 02:56pm | #2

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   I have a house built on slab aroung 1980. A large greatroom was added on in 1990. The addition has a large basement under it. Problem is the greatroom is unusable in winter. Too cold. Has a nice wood stove. But, I have to keep it stoked 24 hours a day to keep the temp comfortable.

   I've done the obvious insulating. My question is about the block walls. Three walls are 80% sided by dirt. The back wall is 50% covered in dirt except for a six foor walkout sliding door, (which also will be replaced).

   The block walls are half open on top near the sill plate. I can dump sand or cellulose down the holes, but would that help insulating? Should block walls be left open or filled in?

   On a side note, I will be painting the walls also. I'm thinking that would help somewhat. Whats a good sealer?

   Thanks.

   Andy