How to Install Foam Sheeting on Exterior Walls

Foam boards are insulation boards installed on exterior walls. The boards are easier to handle and install than spray or fiberglass insulation. The boards are simply cut to length and screwed or nailed into position. Adding foam insulation to your exterior walls will help you keep the cost of heating and cooling your home down.

Measuring tape
Pry bar
Foil tape
Window screen
Caulk
Chalk or marker
Utility knife
Nails or screws
Hammer or drill

Instructions

- 1
  Measure the wall on which you intend to install the insulation. You need to know how many square feet of foam insulation to purchase.
- 2
  Remove the siding from the walls using a pry bar or the claw of a hammer. Save the siding if you intend to put it back on the house after the foam is installed.
- 3
  Tape window screen over the edges of the insulation with foil tape to prevent bugs from getting inside the insulation and the cracks.
- 4
  Squirt caulk along the edges of the walls, especially around window openings, outlets and other openings on the walls. This helps keep heat inside and further prevents bugs from getting in the home.
- 5
  Mark any openings that need to be cut out, such as those for windows or outlets, with chalk or a marker. Use a utility knife to cut out those pieces.
- 6
  Nail or screw the foam boards to the walls.
- 7
  Seal the foam boards at the seam with foil tape.
- 8
  Replace the siding over the foam boards.

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