How to Insulate Basement Walls With Ridges

If your basement walls have ridges, you will insulate them in the same manner as you would flat basement walls. Before you start on your insulation project, be sure that your basement is dry. If your basement is damp, find a dehumidifier that is rated for the square footage of your basement and allow it to run until the basement is dry before installing the insulation. If the basement is very wet or damp, you will need to correct the underlying problem before installing insulation.

Paintbrush
Waterproof sealant
Sprayer (Optional)
Rigid foam board insulation
Narrow furring strips
3-inch masonry screws

Instructions

- 1
  Remove all debris, nails and screws from the basement walls. Use a paintbrush to help you get into the spaces inside of the ridges and channels.
- 2
  Apply waterproof sealant to the basement walls. Depending on the sealant you choose, you may either apply it with a paintbrush or a sprayer. Allow the sealant to thoroughly dry before continuing.
- 3
  Lean rigid foam board insulation against the walls of the basement with the flat side of the insulation against the wall. The side with the visible lip should be facing the center of the room. Place the boards snugly against one another so a channel forms when you place the two lips together.
- 4
  Cut narrow furring strips to fit the basement wall. Place a furring strip into each channel between the rigid foam board insulation.
- 5
  Drill screws into the furring strip, through the rigid foam board insulation lip and into the basement wall. In most cases, you will need 3-inch masonry screws to do this; however, if your climate requires a higher-rated insulation, you may need longer screws. Stagger the screws down the length of the furring strip to prevent the strip from splintering.

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