How to Insulate a Crawl Space Properly

[Damien Bolduc]

http://www.ehow.com/how_5067487_insulate-crawl-space-properly.html

1Before starting this project make sure you put on your mask, safety glasses and that you have plenty of time.

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2
The fiberglass insulation collects dust and allergens. If it is hanging down you may have a rodent problemRemove all existing fiberglass insulation from the joists in the ceiling of the crawl space. See picture.

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3Once all the old insulation is taken down, bagged and removed from the crawl space you can start to insulate the crawl space properly

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A properly insulated crawl spaceUsing a spray foam insulation you want to insulate the foundation of the crawl space. The sill boxes. This is the wood area where the house meets the foundation. This is where most outside air infiltration occurs. Spray 2 inches thick from the top of the sill box to one foot below where the sill box ends.

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5The reason we insulate any room in a dwelling is to keep the warm air out in the summer and cold air out in the winter. To allow outside air infiltration in your crawl space defeats the purpose. Encapsulate the crawl space. That will bring it back into the thermal envelope of your home and actually reduce the amount of energy it takes to cool and heat your home. The air quality of your home will increase.