Question:

Hi Sam, We have just moved into a 25 year old house in Barrhaven. The basement is pretty well finished except for the furnace/laundry room and under the stairs. I've notice that I don't have anything on the walls under the stairs(just the foundation) and in the other rooms I have insulation and drywall but it stops about 21/2 feet from the floor Should I insulate to the floor (leaving 8 inches)? Do I need to rip out what is there or can I add on to the bottom. There is no framing on the bottom half so I'm not sure how to meet the two sections. What price range would I be looking at to get this done? Will it really make our basement warmer? I hope this is a clear description. Thanks LV

Answer:

The building code requires that a none lived in basement be finshed 2' below grade. If finishing the basement then that insulation should stop 12" from the floor for to reasons so the insulation does not absorb any moisture from the concrete via static pressure and also to promote airflow to the back of the insulation in behind that wall. Extend the framing to the floor so the insulation can be friction fitted into place, and make sure the new vapor barrier is joined to existing. The insulation will not make it warmer it will just help in keeping the existing in better. Call if you have any further questions or inquires Sam Marrello Comfort Insulation 613-226-9912

Answered By: Sam Marrello

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