insulating larger gap between studs and concrete wall in basement
onetimer
| Posted in General Discussion on
I am about to install insulation in 600 sq ft of my basement, but I’m not sure what to do in one particular situation.
The back edge of the studs for one wall are set off more than the normal 1/2″ from the concrete- in fact, they’re about an extra 6″ to account for some plumbing. My question is: how do I insulate that wall? Or, what is the best option for me there? The wall is about 8′ wide, and its 9′ tall.
Any help would be greatly appreciated. Thanks
Replies
The best way to insulate basement walls (poured concrete or block etc.) is with foam. Closed cell spray foam is best and can be DIY with a kit from a big box store or other lumberyard. I would hire out the whole job to a spray foam contractor and not deal with the respirators, fumes, Tyvek suit etc. If you are intent on doing it yourself, then you can use rigid foamboard glued directly to the masonry walls - in your situation that extra space would make it easy to slip the 2x8 or 4x8 sheets behind. If the other walls are only off the foundation the 1/2" you mentioned you could attempt to get 1/2" foam behind the studs.. but that might be tough.. here is where spray foam would be best - it will easily get into the spaces creating the continuous vapor barrier you are trying to achieve.
If you want an alternative to spray foam you could try to build an additional frame in front of the existing studs to bring them flush with the concrete wall. This would create a cavity between the new frame and the existing studs where you can install insulation.
I don't recommend it over spray foam, but just in case you don't life the foam there is this option