Yes, another question about closed cell insulation around the rim joist. We have a floor truss system that has created a cavity on the mud sill that needs insulating. There are numerous electrical and communication wires that will be hidden when this area gets sprayed. Should I be concerned? Should I try to sleeve these wires somehow to protect them? Is it an issue for these wires to come into contact with the closed cell spray? (I’m not even sure how I would sleeve them).
Also, I understand termites are a concern with the use of closed cell insulation. At the closest location, our wood floor and framing system is about 18 inches from finish grade, but the balance of the wood construction is higher than that from the ground. We are in a 5A climate and while I don’t believe termites are a huge problem in our area, they do exist. Basement walls are CMU, exterior siding is hardi-board. Finally, will we need to install sheetrock to separate and create a fire barrier between each truss where the insulation will be sprayed (see attached photo)? Thank you for all of your wonderful information.
Replies
You have choices when providing a covering for spray foam.
If you are going to hang drywall over the basement, it can do the job, but if you plan to leave it open, then you need to use drywall or other suitable covering over foam.
You should be ok with spray foam touching or covering NMT and other cables.
Termite service can install and check bait stations to watch for infestations.
You might want to consider sleeving those wires to protect them from the closed cell spray. As for termites, since your wood construction is mostly above 18 inches from the ground and you're not in a high-risk area, they might not be a huge concern.
However, it's always good to stay cautious. Regarding the fire barrier, check your local codes; you might need sheetrock for that.