Do basement walls need to breathe?

Nowadays, houses are sealed up tight as a drum. It's great for energy efficiency and your heating bill. But it's bad for any moisture hiding in your home that can't find its way out. That is why your walls need to breathe.

Does concrete wall need to breathe?

There is no need for concrete to breath from the point of view of the strength of the material. There will be moisture retained from the original mix and it is possible some are confused about the chemistry of concrete and think it needs to dry, but the truth is the complete opposite of that.

Do you need vapor barrier on basement walls?

Building codes usually require a vapor barrier (4 mil plastic sheeting) on exterior basement walls if the framing is attached to masonry or concrete surfaces, or if the wood framing butts up against the outer basement walls.

Is it OK to not insulate basement walls?

There are a few reasons that basement wall insulation is important and necessary. These range from energy conservation, to code requirements in certain areas. Regardless, having a properly insulated basement should be a priority for homeowners.

Should I insulate concrete basement walls?

Walls. Basement walls should be insulated with non-water sensitive insulation that prevents interior air from contacting cold basement surfaces—the concrete structural elements and the rim joist framing.

“Houses need to BREATHE!” - Shut your filthy mouth

Should I insulate below grade basement walls?

Your best bang for the dollar in this instance is to insulate the coldest part of the wall, again typically to 2-feet below grade. However, there are many instances where insulating the full wall is the best option, such as if your walls are stone, or the floor is earth or crushed stone with no vapor barrier.

Will insulating basement make house warmer?

Insulating the ceiling may keep your floors less cold, but it will not do much for the actual temperature of your home, and could lead to frozen water pipes and cold heating system distribution networks (air ducts or hot water piping).

Should you seal basement walls before finishing?

Water issues can cause serious damage and ruin your investment. Before finishing the basement, deep-seal your concrete against water seepage, water vapor, and soil gases like radon.

Should I spray foam my basement walls?

The best way to insulate the interior side of a basement wall is with foam insulation that is adhered to or sprayed directly on the concrete. Any of the following insulation materials are acceptable for this purpose: closed-cell spray polyurethane foam or either XPS, EPS, or polyisocyanurate rigid foam.

Should I put plastic behind drywall in a basement?

Basement wall systems should never include any polyethylene. You don't want poly between the concrete and the insulation; nor do you want poly between gypsum drywall and the insulation. You don't want poly anywhere.

How do you insulate basement walls to prevent mold?

Should I paint basement walls?

I am talking about do not paint your foundation walls like concrete, brick, and block. Remember, most foundation walls allow lots of moisture and humidity into your basement. Many paints are not strong enough to hold back the hydrostatic pressure.

Should walls breathe?

"Breathing of the walls in the sense of an air renewal of the interiors does not take place, however, for hygienic and structural reasons a certain capacity for absorption of water vapor is desired on the inside of the walls. Common interior plaster, plasterboard and the like meet this desire (buffering).

Which product is best to create a moisture barrier in concrete or masonry basement walls?

The best moisture barrier, however, is rigid foam which is sealed with spray foam around the bottom and corner gaps of the walls. Other options include 6mm poly sheets and exterior wraps like Tyvek.

Do I really need to waterproof my basement?

Ideally, it is best to waterproof the exterior walls of a basement during the construction of a building. Newer construction mandates this procedure because of many state and local building code requirements, but many older homes may not have any exterior waterproofing in place.

Can I seal my basement from the inside?

Waterproofing a basement in the inside is a very popular option because it is done without major exterior excavation and, in some cases, can be done very quickly and economically.

What is the cheapest way to finish a basement wall?

If you're wondering if paneling or drywall is the cheaper finishing option, generally speaking, drywall is cheaper than paneling. This is because it requires less attention to detail and finish work during the installation process. Drywall also adds better soundproofing than paneling, and it's easier to repair.

Should I insulate my basement ceiling of the basement is unheated?

Insulating the basement ceiling will keep most of the heat upstairs in the living space. As a result, the basement will be colder in the winter making it important to also insulate any water pipes or heating/cooling ducts in the basement.

How do you vapor barrier a basement?

Polyurethane sheeting is a typical vapor barrier that contractors use to prevent moisture from penetrating the walls of a basement. The material is stapled to the frame of a basement wall before it is finished with plaster or drywall. A vapor barrier is also helpful to keeping a basement insulated and warm.

How do I winterize my basement?

Why is my finished basement so cold?

Basements tend to be damper than other places in your house. This is often caused by water seeping through the concrete foundation, rising from a dirt floor or simply because of poor ventilation. This higher level of moisture in the air will end up making you feel much colder than the ambient air temperature.

Should basement vents be open in winter?

Air vents should be open to prevent damage

Increased air pressure can create cracks and holes in the ductwork. It can also cause your furnace's heat exchanger to crack. Leave all air vents open to prevent extensive damage to your home's heating system this winter.