"Providing integrated pest control and moisture management solutions since 1987"
SM
Fully Licensed & Insured
NJ State License: 13VH07373400
Chemical Applicator License: 93846A
RESIDENTIAL & COMMERCIAL
Locally Owned & Operated
FLOOR INSULATION:
Why insulate your crawlspace?
Insulating helps prevent losing heat from escaping during the winter. It also helps keep your home cool during the summer. Insulation helps keep the temperature in your home at an even balance no matter what season. So if you are looking to simply save in energy costs then the best idea would be to insulate.
Insulation is rated in terms of thermal resistance, called R-value, which indicates the resistance to heat flow. The R value rated for each individual type of insulation means the total number of hours rated to resist heat or cold. R-19 insulation resists heat or cold, thereby reducing the need to heat or cool your home and in turn lowering energy costs.
All insulation levels are specified by R-Value. R-Value is a measure of insulation’s ability to resist heat traveling through it. The higher the R-Value the better the thermal performance of the insulation. However, depending on your geographic area, condition of your crawl space, amongst other factors the need to utilize a higher R-value may not always be the best choice. It is also important to keep in mind the greater the R-value the greater the expense in material costs.
How to install floor insulation?
In order to properly install floor insulation (R19 Batt Insulation):
1) Press the insulation between the floor joists. The insulation should be installed against the subfloor.
2) Once the insulation is in place, secure insulation with rods by placing between the floor joists.
INSULATING UNDER FLOORS AND OVER CRAWLSPACES - THE TRICKS OF THE TRADE
When insulation a floor over a crawlspace, the ground should be covered with a polyethylene film, called a vapor barrier. If a ground vapor barrier is not used, depending on your specific location and moisture content, ventilation may be needed. It is recommended to have at least one square foot of ventilating areas for each 150 sq. ft. of floor area. Be sure to seal and insulate heating and air conditioning ducts. Also, insulate water pipes to protect them from freezing.
Insulate crawlspace walls only if the foundation is above ground and exposed to the elements. By insulating the sidewalls with rigid foam board insulation, you will be able to reduce your energy costs more effectively and keep the elements out. A vapor barrier can then be installed on the sidewalls to reduce moisture migration into the crawlspace.