How thick should foam board insulation be?

Most panels range between 3/8″ and 2.5″ in thickness, though other dimensions and thicknesses are usually available through custom order.

What thickness of foam board do I need?

A 5 mm thick foam board is the standard thickness used for presentations and for direct printing.

Does foam board insulation need a vapor barrier?

Foam insulation usually does not require a vapor barrier. For some foam insulation types, such as closed-cell spray foam and foam board insulation, the insulation itself stops the movement of most water vapor.

Does rigid foam insulation need to be covered?

Tests have shown that these laminated boards can withstand UV ray damage for a reasonably long time. That said, it's still advisable to cover any foam board insulation exposed to the Sun within 30-60 days at the most. On most projects, that's more than enough time to finish the exterior walls.

Which side of rigid foam insulation faces out?

If you're wondering whether to put the foil side of foam insulation board shiny side in or out, consider whether you want to make the space inside warmer or cooler. If you want to make the space warmer, the foil should face inside so it can reflect radiant heat back into the room.

EPS, XPS

Can you put foam board over drywall?

To reduce the amount of demolition and waste InSoFast panels can be installed directly over drywall or plaster. Air sealing with spray foam. Straw foam available at your local lumber retailer will work fine.

Can you put rigid foam insulation between studs?

Even with its flaws—namely, its inability to perfectly mold to the bays between the studs—rigid foam insulation will be a better bet than no insulation. Using low-expanding spray foam sealant to seal those gaps further increases rigid foam's insulating properties between studs.

How long can foam board be exposed?

If FOAMULAR® insulation is not covered immediately, it is recommended that it be covered within 60 days. When exposed for up to 60 days, gradual color fading and/or dusting of the surface may occur.

What is the difference between pink and blue foam board?

Both are manufactured using the same process and contain similar chemical components. The two products also have the same insulating power. However, blue foam boards are manufactured by Dow Chemical Co. whereas the pink foam boards are manufactured by Owens Corning company.

What is the highest R-value for foam board?

Polyisocyanurate: Known as polyiso for short, polyisocyanurate foam has the highest R-value per inch (R-6.5 to R-6.8) of any rigid insulation.

Is foam board insulation enough?

Because of its resistance to moisture, foam board insulation is a great choice whenever and wherever there is a chance it could get wet, such as: an exterior foundation, inside a basement against the foundation, and on the outside of a house beneath a house wrap.

How thickness should foam board insulation be for basement walls?

The thickness of foam insulation in basement walls will range between two to seven inches, depending on where you live and whether you use open or closed-cell spray foam insulation.

How do you attach foam board insulation to wood?

What is the thickest foam board?

Foam board comes in three thickness choices: 1/8", 3/16" and 1/2". Gatorboard comes in 3/16" and 1/2".

Do you need an air gap for insulation?

Insulation is technically a solid with a lot of air in it therefore, it is NOT an air gap. You literally must have a VOID, nothing in the air gap except air itself. So if you are installing under a roof or in a wall, you must create an air gap.

Which foam board insulation is best?

Foam board made from polyisocyanurate (polyiso) generally offers the best insulation capacity and 6.5 per inch. Water is the primary "blowing agent," making it one of the most environmentally-friendly foams used.

How much insulation can I put in a 2x4 wall?

They are available in widths suited to standard spacings of wall studs and attic or floor joists: 2x4 walls can hold R-13 or R-15 batts; 2x6 walls can have R-19 or R-21 products. Loose-fill insulation—usually made of fiberglass, rock wool, or cellulose—comes in shreds, granules, or nodules.

Can you add foam board insulation to existing walls?

One method for increasing the insulation level of the walls in existing homes is to remove the exterior cladding and install rigid foam insulation, possibly new house wrap, and new exterior cladding over the walls.

How do you attach foam board to drywall?

Can you use foam board on ceiling?

In general, closed-cell foam is the best choice for unvented cathedral ceilings. It is also one of the most expensive, and most building inspectors will not allow it to be left uncovered (for fire-code reasons). Foil-faced iso-board can be cost-effective insulation for finished attics and cathedral ceilings.