Can Expanded Polystyrene Be Used to Insulate a Basement?

Calculate How Much EPS You Need

• 1

  Measure the height of each wall that is to be insulated. Measure the height from the basement floor to the underside of the floor joists on the basement's ceiling. Write the measurements on a notepad.

• 2

  Measure the length of each wall that is to be insulated. Measure all the walls that will be insulated. Jot the figures down with the corresponding wall heights on your notepad.

• 3

  Calculate the square footage of your basement insulation project. To do this, multiply the height of each wall by its length. Add the square footage of each wall together to get the total square feet for your project. For example, if you have two walls that measure 9 feet high by 12 feet wide and two walls that measure 9 feet high by 20 feet wide, your total square footage will be 576.

• 4

  Pick up enough EPS at your local hardware store to cover the square footage you calculated. Pick up the other supplies you need while at the store.

Install the EPS in Your Basement

• 5

  Brush the basement walls to get rid of any debris or dirt. Sweep up as much of the mess as possible.

• 6

  Paint the wall with a waterproof sealer to prevent issues with moisture. Let the paint cure for as long as the directions instruct. Paint on another coat if instructed.

• 7

  Measure the areas in the wall to be insulated. Use the dimensions to measure the insulation panel and use a framing square to draw a straight line to mark where the panel needs to be cut.

• 8

  Cut the insulation piece with a utility knife. Apply an industrial adhesive to the back of the insulation panel. Install the panel on the wall and push firmly against it.

• 9

  Repeat the four steps as many times as needed to complete the basement insulation project.