Insulating Exterior Foundation Walls

Advantages of Insulating Exterior Foundation Walls

One of the principle benefits of insulating exterior foundation walls is that it reduces heat loss through the foundation walls, and therefore reduces home energy costs.

This is a particularly important benefit in colder climates where there is deep frost. In addition, in colder climates the exterior foundation wall insulation can actually help to protect the basement walls from cracking due to extreme freeze-thaw cycles.

Another benefit of insulating exterior basement walls is that it helps to protect the waterproofing coating that is applied to the exterior foundation walls when the foundation is backfilled. In addition, it helps to mitigate moisture penetration through the foundation walls.

Insulated exterior basement walls also help to reduce condensation on interior basement walls, as well as reduce the thickness of insulation required on interior basement walls.

Disadvantages of Insulating Exterior Foundation Walls Insulating exterior foundation walls does have a few disadvantages. Again, as I already mentioned, installing exterior foundation wall insulation as a retrofit project is expensive. In addition, insect infestation and water damage can be a problem with some types of exterior foundation wall insulation products.

For best results when insulating exterior foundation walls use 2” waterproof, insect resistant, rigid foam board insulation panels. In addition, it is important to make sure the panels are attached flush to the basement walls and that adjacent panels are butted up tightly against one another. 

In addition, all panel seams should be sealed and flashed properly to prevent water penetration in between panel seems. If you live in an area with known Radon gas problems, insulating exterior foundation walls can exacerbate the buildup of Radon gas in the basement. Consequently, it is important to test your basement for Radon gas and install a Radon gas mitigation system if necessary. Finally, moisture levels in basements are typically quite high and can become even higher in a well insulated basement.

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High moisture levels in the basement can lead to mold and mildew growth. Consequently, it is important to include a moisture control system, such as a dehumidifier, in the basement to mitigate the risk of moisture problems.