How to Install Rigid Foam Insulation in a Basement

If you want to improve the insulation of your basement walls, adding rigid foam insulation is a cost-effective and reasonably easy way for do-it-yourselfers to go about it. Rigid foam panels are easy to cut to size and install, and they don't require you to frame the wall -- something you'd have to do if you wished to install roll-style insulation. With a little planning and some simple tools, you can start your insulation project.

Tape measure
Rigid foam insulation panels
Straight edge
Utility knife
Construction adhesive
Caulking gun
Vinyl tape

Instructions

- 1
  Measure the height and width of your walls with a tape measure. Sketch out a diagram of the walls on a piece of paper and determine the number of panels you'll need.
- 2
  Place your first panel against the wall at a corner of the room. If you need to trim any excess from the panel, score the foam with a sharp utility knife, using a straight edge as a guide, and snap off the unneeded portion. Mark the location of the outer edge of the panel on the wall with a pencil.
- 3
  Use the caulking gun to apply a bead of construction adhesive to the wall in an S-shaped pattern. Place the panel onto the wall and press firmly until it stays in place.
- 4
  Prepare and place your next panel, following the same procedure, and continue around the walls until they're covered.
- 5
  Tape the seams between panels with vinyl tape.

How to Install a Cable Jack in a Finished Wall in the Basement

How to Design a Window Seat for a Small Space

Room by Room Remodeling