Walls and Insulation
Heat Loss Starts at the Foundation
The top 8" of an uninsulated foundation wall accounts for 45% of the basement’s heat loss. That's why you should know not only what kind of exterior wall insulation is used, but how much – some builders only insulate part of the foundation. Insulation with an R-5 value along the entire foundation from footing to mudsill (not just to the frost line) is most effective. A fiber cement coating applied to the top 8" of the insulation is also critical because it serves as a protective coating from the elements…and the weed wacker.
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