How to Install Insulation in Framed Basement Walls

It's common to frame basement walls with a 2-by-4-inch board stud wall as a first step in a basement refinishing project. The stud wall allows the installation of wiring, switches and outlets, and provides space for insulation to be installed before the frame wall is covered with drywall or paneling. To get the best performance out of the insulation you're adding to the frame wall, you will need to take some care in the installation.

Tape measure
Filter mask
Work gloves
Roll (blanket) insulation
Utility knife
Stepladder
Staple gun

Instructions

- 1
  Measure the height of the wall in the space between the first two vertical studs of the frame wall.
- 2
  Put on a filter mask and work gloves. Unroll the insulation, paper side down, and cut the insulation to match the measurement you took in the first step.
- 3
  Place a stepladder, if necessary, by the wall. Grab the end of the length of insulation and lift the end up to the top of the wall. Push the insulation, paper side out, into the gap between the studs. Arrange the paper tabs on either side of the insulation against the sides of the studs. Staple the paper to the studs every 8 inches.
- 4
  Work your way down the wall, pushing the insulation in between the studs and stapling the paper to the studs until you reach the bottom.
- 5
  Repeat the process for every gap between studs until you've covered the wall.

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