Sagging Insulation in Basement Joists Has No Thermal Value

Learn why fiberglass batts don’t perform well in the basement

Some builders still install fiberglass batt insulation in the basement, even though they shouldn’t. Fiberglass insulation is inexpensive, and at one time, was the only insulation available in many areas throughout the U.S. Today, we know that certain types of insulation perform well in certain applications but not in others.

Dr. Energy Saver dealers receive extensive training to know exactly what products they should and should not use in your home, and they have access to high-quality materials to get the job done. Call in your local dealer to discover which basement insulation option is right for your home!

What’s bad about batts in the basement?

• Pests love fiberglass insulation. Mice love to make nests in fiberglass insulation because it’s comfortable, protecting and easy to move around in.
• “Fluffy” fiberglass can’t stop air movement. Fiberglass insulation in the ceiling of the basement can’t stop air from moving upstairs through the many gaps, cracks and openings in the basement ceiling.
• Batts lose insulating value. Batt insulation loses its thermal properties when it absorbs moisture, compresses or falls out of place. All three things can easily happen when batts are installed in the basement ceiling or in wood-framed basement walls.
• Basement ceiling insulation doesn’t help the basement. If you plan to finish part of the basement to use as living space, fiberglass batt insulation in the basement ceiling will do nothing to make the basement more comfortable and energy efficient. To bring your basement within your home’s “thermal envelope,” basement insulation must be installed against basement walls.

Much better than batts: Rigid foam panels installed against basement walls

If your home has fiberglass insulation in the basement ceiling, don’t despair. As long as this insulation is in good condition, it can usually be left in place. But why not spring for the right kind of basement insulation? Rigid foam boards, installed against the basement’s masonry walls, will permanently keep your basement more comfortable with no deterioration or lapse in thermal performance.

Basement-to-beautiful® insulation panels, available exclusively from Dr. Energy Saver, provide you with the top performance of rigid foam, along with integral steel nailing fins that simplify the installation of finished wallboard.

Have a Dr. Energy Saver dealer install rigid foam insulation today

Ready to replace fiberglass batts or install new rigid foam boards in your basement? Dr. Energy Saver is here to help! Call your local dealer or click below to set up an inspection and discuss your basement insulation options.

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