Asked by: Duncan Caleiras
Asked in category: home and garden, indoor environmental quality
Last Updated: 28th Mar 2024

Should you insulate interior basement walls?

For maximum energy efficiency, exterior wall insulation is the best option. However, interior Insulation is more affordable and easier for homeowners. It's more practical to insulate your basement if it hasn't been finished.



So, interior walls should be insulated.

Although it isn't very common to insulate interior walls, homeowners can reap the energy-saving and sound-dampening benefits. It is best to insulate walls during new construction. However, it is possible to insulate walls without tearing out the drywall.

The same goes for basement insulation. Spray foam, fiberglass and foam board are the most common basement insulation materials. Many older homes leave the basement uninsulated. This allows air to enter the basement ceiling and rimjoists from the outside.

Do you also need a vapor barrier for basement walls?

A basement moisture or vapor barrier is installed when a home is being built or renovated. Before plaster or drywall is applied to the basement wall, the material is stapled. To keep a basement warm and insulated, a vapor barrier can also be used.

Is it possible to make your house more comfortable by insulating the basement?

Wall insulation reduces heat loss from your basement to outside. Ceiling insulation can keep your first floor warmer and use less energy, but it will make your basement colder.