How to Insulate a Basement in Michigan

Measure the height and length of each wall, and multiply them to get the surface area. The foam insulation boards are 4-by-8, which is 32 square feet, so divide the square footage by 32 to calculate the number of boards needed for each wall.

Clean the walls with a power washer, and allow them to dry for at least 24 hours. The cleaner you get the walls, the better the adhesive for the foam boards will work.

Cut the first board to fit on the wall, if needed, by marking the cut line on the board and placing a straightedge next to it. Run a utility knife on the board, using the straightedge as a guide to create a score line, and snap the board at the score line.

Spread foam board adhesive on the back of the first insulation board with a paintbrush.

Place the insulation board against the bottom of the wall in a corner, with the adhesive-covered side against the wall. Press the board tightly against the wall, positioning it vertically.

Cut the next board, if necessary, and apply the adhesive to the back with the paintbrush. Then press it firmly against the wall next to the first board. Continue installing the boards along the rest of the wall. Repeat this process on each wall. If you need to install a second row of boards, add them using the same process you followed for the first row. The boards in the second row will be installed horizontally, because most basement walls aren't tall enough to accommodate two vertical boards.

Cover the joints between the insulation boards with installation tape.