How to Install Foam Board Insulation Between Ceiling Joists

If your basement ceiling is uninsulated, you'll feel the effects on your feet particularly in the winter. An uninsulated ceiling will transmit the cold air in your basement directly onto the floor above, resulting in discomfort and higher energy costs. The addition of foam board insulation to the spaces between your ceiling joists will go a long way toward fixing these problems.

Tape measure
Foam panels
Utility knife
Step ladder
Construction adhesive
Caulk gun

Instructions

- 1
  Measure the distance between your ceiling joists and record the measurements.
- 2
  Lay a foam panel down on the floor and cut it to the width you've measured, using a utility knife to score the panel and then breaking the panel along the line with your hands.
- 3
  Place a step ladder at one end of the ceiling. Apply construction adhesive to one side of the panel. Lift the panel up and place it against the ceiling, pushing it against the rim joist at the end. Hold the panel until the adhesive sets enough to hold the panel in place.
- 4
  Cut your next panel and butt it against the end of the first panel. Continue until the length of the ceiling has been covered. Move to the next set of joists and apply more panels using the same techniques. Continue until the ceiling has been covered.

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