Insulation is an important part of making sure your crawlspace is energy efficient. It will also help keep your home warm during the winter and cool in the summer. The type of insulation you need will depend on where you live and how much time you spend in your crawlspace.
Measure the space and buy enough insulation to cover it.
Mark off where you plan on installing the insulation before making any purchases. This will help ensure that you have bought enough materials. If possible, purchase or rent equipment to install the insulation yourself. Include a picture of how much insulation you’ll need for your crawlspace. If you don’t feel comfortable doing it on your own, consider hiring a professional to do the work for you.
Ensure no gaps between insulation and walls or floorboards.
Gaps in insulation can provide a cozy place for pests and rodents to make their home, so filling any gaps you find is important. You can use caulk or expanding foam to fill the gaps and create an airtight seal.
Use rolls of insulation, not batt insulation.
Batt insulation is generally installed between wall studs, which isn’t possible in a crawlspace. Opt for rolls of insulation that you can easily unroll and fit into the space. They are also easier to keep in place and avoid creating gaps. Use high-quality insulation that lasts for years and provides the right R-value for your climate.
Install the insulation between the floor joists.
Most of the heat loss happens in the floor joists. These areas are hard to reach, so it’s important to have insulation there. You can use a staple gun or adhesive strips to attach the insulation to this area.
If you have a vapor barrier, ensure it’s installed properly and that the insulation is not resting on top of it.
Vapor barriers help prevent moisture from seeping into the floor joists, which can cause mold and mildew to grow. If you have a vapor barrier installed, ensure that your insulation is not under it or resting on top of it. It should rest on top of the subfloor. This position will also help keep the insulation in place and prevent gaps.
Seal all the joints and cracks in the crawlspace with caulk or expanding foam.
It’s important to use a weatherproof sealant and will stand up to moisture. Expanding foam is a great option for filling small cracks and joints. It cures quickly and forms a tight seal. Caulk is also an effective way to fill gaps and create an airtight seal. They should be applied to all the joints between the insulation and framing and around pipes and wires.
Check your insulation periodically and add more if necessary.
The insulation will lose its effectiveness over time. Check it periodically to ensure that the crawlspace stays cool and draft-free. If you notice gaps or spaces where insulation isn’t present, consider adding more of it to increase the effectiveness of your insulation.
Take proper care of your insulation to ensure it lasts as long as possible.
Make sure you store the rolls in a dry, clean area that won’t get damaged or dirty. Keep them away from moisture and outside elements like rain and snow that can degrade their quality. If any materials are wet when you install them, allow them to dry before you use them.
Properly insulating a crawlspace is an important step that homeowners should take. It can help save energy and keep pests out of your home or crawlspace. It may consume some time and effort, but it is definitely worth the investment.
