How to Insulate an Exposed Basement Ceiling

Unfinished basements usually have exposed ceilings. And if your basement's ceiling doesn't have any insulation, you'll be plagued with cold floors throughout the winter. That's not only uncomfortable, but it's also a real energy waster. Rectifying this problem won't take much time if you've got the proper materials and follow the right plan.

Tape measure
Filter mask
Work gloves
Batt roll insulation
Utility knife
Step ladder
Staple gun

Instructions

- 1
  Measure the length of the basement ceiling between the first two ceiling joists on either side of the ceiling.
- 2
  Put on a filter mask and work gloves. Unroll your insulation and cut it to the length you measured with a utility knife.
- 3
  Place a step ladder at one end of the ceiling. Push the end of the insulation length up between the ceiling joists, paper side down, and staple the paper edges onto the insides of the joists. Place a staple every few inches on both sides.
- 4
  Move your ladder along the joist, pushing the insulation up and stapling as you go, until you finish the first strip of insulation.
- 5
  Repeat the process with each length of ceiling between the joists until the ceiling is completely covered.

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